Candles can create a warm and cozy atmosphere, but it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure they burn safely and last as long as possible. Here are some general candle care instructions:
Before lighting your candle, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. A longer wick can create a larger flame, which can be dangerous and cause the candle to burn too quickly.
Burn the candle for the right amount of time: When you first light your candle, let it burn for long enough so that the entire surface area melts evenly. This prevents the candle from creating a tunnel in the middle and not using all of the wax. Generally, it’s recommended to burn a candle for 1 hour for every inch in diameter.
Keep the candle away from drafts: Airflow can cause candles to burn unevenly or even extinguish the flame. Keep candles away from open windows, fans, and air conditioning vents.
Keep the wax pool clean: If debris or burnt wick falls into the wax pool, it can create a dangerous flame. Use a wick trimmer or tweezers to remove any debris.
Extinguish the candle properly: Don’t blow out a candle, as it can create sparks and cause hot wax to splatter. Instead, use a snuffer or a lid to extinguish the flame. This also prevents smoke and soot from accumulating on the candle’s surface.
Store candles properly: Keep candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents them from melting or discoloring.
Use a proper holder: Always use a sturdy, heat-resistant candle holder that is the appropriate size for the candle. This prevents the candle from tipping over or causing a fire.
Avoid burning candles all the way to the bottom: It’s important to stop burning a candle when there is about 1/2 inch of wax remaining at the bottom of the jar or holder. Continuing to burn the candle beyond this point can create a dangerous flame and potentially cause the container to break.
Avoid placing candles too close together: If you are burning multiple candles, be sure to space them at least 3 inches apart from each other. This prevents heat from one candle from melting another and causing a fire.
Keep candles out of reach of children and pets: Candles should always be kept out of the reach of children and pets, as they can accidentally knock them over or touch the hot wax.
Don’t move a burning candle: Moving a lit candle can create a dangerous spill of hot wax. Always extinguish the flame and allow the candle to cool before moving it.
Be mindful of candle scent and allergy sensitivities: If you or anyone in your household has allergies or sensitivities to certain scents, be sure to choose candles with natural fragrances or no fragrance at all. And always burn candles in a well-ventilated area to prevent irritation or discomfort