Candle Care and Use

Tips for Successful Candle Use and Care

Traditional wax candles provide a classic ambiance that cannot be replaced by any other type of lighting. However, a live flame in any setting requires some basic care to prevent fire and any damage that could be caused by melted wax. 

Using and caring for a candle properly can extend its life and ensure your safety. Here’s a guide on how to use and care for candles:

Before Lighting

  1. Trim the Wick: Before each use, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This helps control the flame size and reduces soot emissions. Use a wick trimmer for best results.
  2. Check for Debris: Ensure the wax pool is free of wick trimmings, matches, or any combustible material that could catch fire.
  3. Secure the Candle: Place the candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, pets, or flammable materials.

Lighting the Candle

  1. Use a Long Match or Lighter: This prevents burning your fingers and allows you to control the flame easily.
  2. Light the Candle Efficiently: Hold the flame to the wick until it lights fully. Do not tilt scented or colored candles as this can cause uneven burning.

While Burning

  1. Never Leave Unattended: Always be in the room while your candle is burning. Never leave a candle burning unattended or while sleeping.
  2. Avoid Drafts: Keep the candle away from drafts, vents, or air currents. This helps prevent rapid, uneven burning and reduces soot formation.
  3. Maintain the Wick: Occasionally check the wick length; if it gets too long while burning, extinguish the flame, let the candle cool, trim the wick, and then relight.
  4. Do Not Burn for Too Long: Limit burn time to 3-4 hours at a time. After extinguishing the flame, let the candle cool for at least two hours before relighting.

Extinguishing the Candle

  1. Use a Wick Dipper or Snuffer: To avoid smoke and splattering wax, use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame or gently dip the wick into the melted wax and then straighten.
  2. Do Not Blow Out: Blowing out candles can cause hot wax to splatter and smoke excessively.

After Use

  1. Let Wax Solidify: Allow the wax to harden before moving or touching the candle. This prevents disruption of the wax pool.
  2. Clean and Store Properly: Wipe off any soot or dust from the candle’s surface. Store your candle in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, which can cause fading and warping.

General Safety Tips

  1. Keep Away from Children and Pets: Place candles out of reach to prevent accidents.
  2. Monitor for Hazards: Regularly inspect for any potential hazards such as a cracked jar or an unstable candleholder.
  3. Proper Disposal: Discontinue use when about 1/2 inch of wax remains at the bottom of the container to prevent heat damage to underlying surfaces.

Following these tips ensures you enjoy your candles safely and prolong their lifespan.