What Is A Wooden Wick Candle?
O Olly Hudson

What Is A Wooden Wick Candle?

Aug 21, 2024

If you like atmospheric lighting and a home that smells divine, you’ll already be a keen candle enthusiast. Candles have been used to light our homes and create an elegant aesthetic since the ancient Egyptians started to use wick candles around 3000 B.C. 


Wick candles were said to be originally created from waxes derived from plants and animals in ancient times. As an alternative, ancient Chinese candle makers used rice paper to make wicks as this was a readily accessible material. 


In recent years, candle companies have been interested in using more sustainable and ecologically sound materials to make wick candles. As a result, wooden wicks have become increasingly popular. 

Contents

  • What are wooden wick candles?
  • 5 tips on how to use wooden wick candles.
  • Do wooden wick candles crackle?
  • The Essence Vault’s beautiful wooden wick candles. 

What are wooden wick candles?

Just like the name suggests, wooden wick candles use wood as a wick instead of the traditional cotton material wick. One reason for this change is that the unique and homely crackling sound emitted by a wooden wick creates images of log fires and cosy cabins. Perfect for the evenings or during colder months.

How do wooden wick candles work? 

The melted wax is drawn to the flame by the wick, releasing the candle’s fragrance and increasing the sensory experience. It may surprise you to learn that wooden wicks actually come in a variety of formats. You can get single-ply, multi-ply and some candles come with decoratively shaped wooden wicks. 

5 tips on how to use wooden wick candles

If you’re new to wooden wick candles, it really won’t take you long to use them confidently. Once you have your wooden wick candle in the ideal spot in your home, follow the tips below to help maximise your wooden wick candle experience.


  1. Make sure your wooden wick is dry before you begin. Use a tissue, kitchen towel or soft cloth to carefully dry it.
  2. You can trim your wick if it is a little long. Remember to leave enough room for the flame to take hold and burn for the desired length of time. 
  3. Wooden wicks typically have a larger surface area than cotton ones, so the best advice is to ensure the whole wick is lit right across its surface for the best effect. 
  4. Only burn a candle for up to 3-4 hours maximum.
  5. Don’t touch the wick until it is entirely cooled for your own safety. 

It’s also helpful to keep candles of any type away from open windows or breezes as this could drive the candle flame towards other materials. To avoid this fire hazard, place your candle in an open space to showcase its natural beauty and fragrance. 

Do wooden wick candles crackle?

Absolutely! The crackling atmosphere of a wooden wick candle is impossible to resist, especially during autumn or winter. Nostalgic memories of snowy Christmasses and  misty halloweens can be created in an instant with the sound of an atmospheric wooden wick candle. 


In fact, many wooden wicks are made from softer woods. These are dried in an attempt to reduce moisture levels which actually results in little gaps that hold small amounts of water in the wick. 


When the wooden wick is lit, the heat warms these water droplets and creates steam. As the steam is released, pressure builds to create irresistibly enjoyable crackling noises. 

The Essence Vault’s beautiful wooden wick candles 

Take your time to choose the perfect luxury wooden wick candle from The Essence Vault. We’ve got a total of 12 options (with more on the way) which are the perfect alternative to air fresheners. Our candles will fill your home with beautiful fragrances inspired by your favourite designer brands.


When it comes to our delightful wooden wick candles, they not only provide a soothing sound but also create the ideal ambience for relaxation. Rich fruity scents like 152 - Inspired by Pomegranate And Noir are perfect for cosy nights in, while fresh and floral fragrances like 13 - Inspired By English Pear & Freesia pair perfectly with summer BBQs. Each one is carefully hand poured and burns for up to 25 hours. 

Plus, The Essence Vault is committed to creating elegant products whilst remaining dedicated to ethical sourcing and sustainability. Our wooden wick candles are made from quality, vegan ingredients to suit all candle lovers and everyone who cares for our environment. 

If you’re looking for wooden wick candles that smell as good as they look in your home, visit our wooden wick candles collection page for more information and that essential touch of luxury.

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