Candle Size Matters: Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better

When shopping for candles, it’s easy to focus on the scent or the style of the jar—but size plays a huge role in how a candle performs. At Solstice Wicks, we believe in crafting candles that aren’t just beautiful and clean-burning, but thoughtfully sized for your lifestyle.

Here’s why size matters—and how to choose the right candle for your space.

🔥 1. Burn Time vs. Burn Quality

A larger candle generally means longer burn time. But it’s not just about how long it lasts—it’s how well it burns. A well-sized wick matched to the diameter of the jar ensures even melting and a consistent scent throw. If the candle is too big with only one wick? Expect tunneling. Too small? The wax may overflow or burn unevenly.

Tip: Always burn your candle long enough for the melted wax to reach the edge of the jar. This prevents tunneling and extends its life.

🕯️ 2. Scent Strength & Room Size

A small candle might be perfect for your bathroom or bedside table—but it won’t fill a large living room. The surface area of the wax pool is what releases the most scent, so the wider the candle, the stronger the throw.

Size Guide:

• Small Rooms up to 100 sqft - (1.4 oz - 4oz) For small rooms like bathrooms, powder rooms, or small offices. These ounces in a candle are perfect for creating a subtle, relaxing atmosphere. If you add a large candle, no matter how clean the scent is, it can be overwhelming for anyone, including pets. Remember, we want to create a subtle and relaxing atmosphere. 

• Medium Rooms 200 -310 sqft (6 oz - 10 oz):  For medium rooms like bedrooms, kitchens or living rooms no open concept. These candles can offer a balance to your room by providing a good amount of scent and burning time, This includes candle pillars of 3 to 4 inches in diameter. These additional scent-adds are perfect for changing the monotony of a room's decor without underestimate the lighting it provides.

• Large Rooms (12 oz - 24 oz or more): For large rooms like open-concept living areas, large living rooms, or dining rooms. For large or open spaces, the best option is multiple candles to create layers of scents and ambiance throughout the room. 3 Wick candles It speeds up the burning time, releasing the scent faster than a regular large candle.

🌿 3. Sustainability & Value

Buying a candle that’s the right size for your needs reduces waste and saves money. At Solstice Wicks, our concrete vessels are designed to be reused—and our seed paper labels encourage planting after your candle’s last burn.

When you buy the right size, you’re less likely to abandon a candle that’s underperforming or overpowering.

🧼 4. Aesthetic & Functionality

Sure, size affects function—but it also affects vibe. A single small candle adds a hint of scent and mood, while a trio of mixed sizes can create a cozy, intentional centerpiece. Larger candles in our collection come with longer burn times and more impactful scent throw—perfect for rituals, meditation, or long cozy evenings.

Choosing Your Size at Solstice Wicks

We offer multiple sizes across our collections—from seasonal scents to pillars and car diffusers. If you're unsure where to start, think about where you’ll use the candle most:

• Need a scent refresh in the bathroom? Try a mini.

• Looking to unwind at night? Go for a medium.

• Want your whole living space to smell like fall? A large concrete jar is your best friend.

It’s Not Just a Candle, It’s an Experience

Candle size affects how long it burns, how strong it smells, how cleanly it melts—and ultimately, how much joy it brings. By choosing the right size, you’re not just buying a product, you’re setting the scene for calm, ritual, and intention.