Pop candles into the fridge for an hour before lighting them, but wrap them in foil or cling-film first to prevent the wicks from absorbing moisture. Before using pillar candles on your dinner table or mantelpiece, first let them burn for long enough to create a pool of wax that almost covers the diameter of the candle. This will ensure that the candle burns evenly each time you light it. If it doesn't create a large enough pool you'll end up with a tunnel through the candle and eventually it will either melt through one side, or you'll no longer be able to light it. Never stand a lit candle in a draught.
Draughts create a larger flame and cause uneven burning.
Don t expose candles to direct sunlight in summer, or place them too close to indoor spotlights, or their colour will fade. If left for too long, the candles may also bend. If you have allowed the candle to burn right down and the wax is stuck in the holder, put the holder into the freezer for a couple of hours and the wax should be easier to dig out. If you like votive candles, try to buy the type with metal cases, as these are easy to remove from holders after use. If you have the uncovered type, pour some water into the holder before lighting the candle.