Safely Burning a Candle

Burning candles safely is important to prevent accidents and ensure a pleasant experience. Here are some guidelines for safely burning a candle:

  1. Choose the right candle: Ensure that the candle is placed in a stable holder made of non-combustible material and designed to catch any drips or wax.

  2. Keep away from flammable items: Place the candle on a heat-resistant surface away from flammable objects such as curtains, paper, or decorations. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

  3. Trim the wick: Before lighting the candle, trim the wick to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) to avoid excessive flame height and soot production. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning or dripping. (See our wick trimmers.)

  4. Place in a draft-free area: Avoid placing the candle in a drafty area as it can cause an uneven burn or flickering flame. Drafts can also increase the risk of fire hazards.

  5. Never leave unattended: Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish it before leaving the room or going to sleep. Ensure it is completely out and the wick is no longer glowing.

  6. Avoid overburning: It is recommended to burn a candle for a maximum of up to 4 hours at a time. Prolonged burning can cause overheating, excessive dripping, or the container becoming too hot.

  7. Keep the wax pool clean: Allow the wax to melt across the entire surface of the candle before extinguishing it. (optimum minimum burn time is 2 hours) This helps prevent tunneling, where a hole forms in the middle, wasting wax.

  8. Extinguish with care: Use a snuffer or gently blow on the flame to extinguish the candle. Avoid blowing too forcefully to prevent hot wax splatter or the wick breaking off and falling into the melted wax.

  9. Store properly: Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Sunlight and heat can cause the candles to melt, warp, or lose their fragrance.

  10. Be cautious with container candles: For container candles, discontinue use when the wax reaches about ½ inch (1.3 cm) from the bottom to prevent heat damage to the container.

Remember, while candles can create a cozy atmosphere, it's essential to prioritize safety and exercise caution when burning them.