To help you find the right tool for your candle needs, we researched options of various sizes, materials, and styles. Our favorite is the Apotheke Wick Trimmer, which boasts a unique angle for safe, clean snipping. Check out the best wick trimmers below. Not only that, but the handles are comfortable, and the open-close mechanism is nice and smooth. We also like that it comes in a pretty green wrappable box—wick trimmers make excellent gifts, after all. It would be nice if there were a few more color options. Still, the black hue is ideal for the purpose of trimming wicks, as soot won’t discolor it. And when ash builds up on the blade, you can easily wipe it clean with a soft, dry cloth. Price at time of publish: $18 The length and blade angle make it easy to reach down low into the deepest pillars and votives. It also has a built-in wick catcher to help you get all the debris out. While it doesn’t come in a wrappable box, the price is tough to beat. Price at time of publish: $6.49 You can also use it to distinguish your candle. This sleek tool is made of steel and features the Diptyque logo around the handle and blade. And you can get a complimentary gift box if you order directly from the brand. Price at time of publish: $40 This functional tool offers neat snipping before each burn to reduce the smoke in your air. What’s more, it has a built-in wick catcher that captures the tip in one fell swoop. Planning to gift this product? It comes in a conveniently wrappable box. Price at time of publish: $22 Unlike black wick trimmers, it’ll show soot and ash, so you’ll want to wipe it clean after each use. This tool is nice and compact, with sharp blades and a built-in wick catcher. This means you won’t have to shake out your candle after snipping it. Price at time of publish: $10.36 Its sharp blades offer a clean cut on the first snip, and the handy wick catcher ensures all debris is lifted out. According to the brand, trimming your wicks down to a quarter of an inch before each use will minimize smoke and prevent your candle jar from blackening. Price at time of publish: $12 This thoughtfully designed tool offers a neat trim before each burn, reducing soot and smoke caused by excess charring. Just a heads up, it doesn’t come in a box, and the velvet drawstring storage bag is an additional fee. Also, the return window is just seven days long. Price at time of publish: $18-$28 The brand suggests keeping your wicks under an eighth of an inch (slightly shorter than the standard recommendation). This will help minimize smoke while preventing your votives from blackening with soot. Price at time of publish: $12 While the design isn’t as versatile as others, this stylish tool is ideal for gifting. And the pretty colorway pairs perfectly with Anthropologie’s signature Capri Blue Volcano Candle. Price at time of publish: $18 Each piece is crafted from sturdy stainless steel and iron with glossy gold plating. Soot and ash will show on the blade and snuffer cone, but these tools are easy to wipe clean with a soft cloth. Price at time of publish: $30
Size
Wick trimmers are usually between 6 to 8 inches long. Smaller designs are more portable and easier to stash in a drawer, but longer trimmers are better for reaching deep down into taller pillars and votives. Note the size of the handle loops too. Like scissors, this can affect the grip and overall comfort.
Design
Design matters in terms of both functionality and aesthetics. “I have had many a wick trimmer in my time, and many of them have gone blunt,” says Chikumbu, explaining that a sharp blade is crucial. An ergonomic handle is good to have as well. “I also love wick trimmers that have a design element—color, engraving, or anything else,” says Chikumbu. “[This] brings an element of decor to your space in a chic and unexpected way.”
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance writer and product reviewer specializing in home goods and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed Kudzi Chikumbu (aka Sir Candle Man), a home fragrance expert and candle influencer. He has been featured in WWD, NY Mag, The Hollywood Reporter, and House Beautiful, as well as on The Rachael Ray Show. With Chikumbu’s expert insight in mind, Theresa researched high-quality wick trimmers with sharp blades, comfortable handles, and aesthetic appeal.
