Choosing the Right Wick for Your Candles
The wick plays an essential role in how a candle burns. Its type and size must suit the wax, the diameter of the container or moulded candle, and any fragrances or colourants used.
An undersized wick may result in insufficient burning, while an oversized wick can produce an excessively large flame or smoke. The final choice should always be confirmed through burn testing on the finished candle.
HST, LX and TCR Wicks: What Are the Differences?
HST wicks have a round construction and are particularly recommended for waxes of vegetable origin.
LX wicks have a flat construction and are primarily intended for paraffin-based formulations. Certain applications with soy wax may also be possible.
TCR wicks are made from braided cotton with a paper core. They are offered for candles made with waxes of vegetable origin.
These recommendations provide a starting point, but testing with your own formulation remains essential.
When Should You Use a Reinforced Wick?
Reinforced wicks have a central core designed to provide additional support.
Reinforced cotton wicks are offered particularly for paraffin-based candles.
Tin-core wicks, which contain a tin wire, are intended for gel candles.
The wick size must still be selected according to the candle diameter and composition.
Wooden Wicks: Choosing the Right Width
Wooden wicks offer a different appearance for container candles. Candelis supplies several widths, from 13 to 30 mm, with metal tabs.
Width alone does not determine which wick is suitable. The container diameter, wax, fragrance and manufacturing conditions must also be considered.
Explore the wooden wick products in this collection to compare the available dimensions.
Pre-tabbed Wicks or Wick Reels: Which Format Should You Choose?
Pre-tabbed wicks are convenient when a defined wick length and a metal tab are required for container candle production.
Wick reels allow manufacturers to cut different lengths to suit their production requirements.
Depending on the product, Candelis may also offer cut-to-length and pre-waxing options. Available formats and specifications are detailed on the individual product pages.
How Can You Check That a Wick Is Suitable?
Before starting a production run, carry out burn tests using the final wax formulation and container. Check the flame height, any smoke produced, wax consumption and the candle's behaviour throughout burning.
A change of wax, fragrance, fragrance concentration or candle diameter may require a different wick.
You can also explore our candle waxes and candle fragrances when preparing your formulation.
Looking for a particular wick range or packaging format? Contact Candelis to discuss your requirements and request a quotation.
