To ensure that your candle lives its longest life, we recommend trimming the wick between each use to about 3/8 of an inch. By doing so, you control the size of the flame. If the flame is too big, it will produce black soot as well as melt the candle much faster. We would recommend using a candle wick trimmer (available through Vine & 7th), however as an alternative you could pinch off a little bit of the wick with your fingers when it is completely cool before the next use. Just make sure to wash your hands right after as some black residue might remain on the finger tips!