Why You Shouldn’t Put Out Candles with the Lid

Hello, fellow candle enthusiasts! As someone who’s spent years crafting and cherishing candles, I can’t stress enough how vital candle safety is. It’s not just about preserving these little beacons of joy, but also about keeping our homes and loved ones safe. So, let’s dive into the art of properly extinguishing candles and why you shouldn’t put out candles with the lid…

How to Put Out a Candle Safely

Now, let’s talk about how to put out a candle the right way. It’s an art form, really, a small but crucial step in your candle care routine. This ensures your candles last longer and remain a safe and delightful part of your home.

Common Candle Extinguishing Faux Pas

Why Not to Blow Out Candles

Blowing out candles, while popular, isn’t the best method. It can cause the hot wax to splatter – trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way! Plus, it might not fully extinguish the flame, leading to possible hazards.

The Risks of Using a Candle Lid to Extinguish Flames

Now, about using a candle lid to put out the flame – it’s a no-no in the candle-making world. It can create a vacuum effect, risking the glass breaking or the flame to reigniting, which can be quite startling!

Avoid Using Your Fingers

And oh, using fingers to extinguish a candle? It’s not just about the ouch factor; it also affects the candle’s wick and wax quality.

Understanding Candle Flames and Extinguishing Methods

The Science Behind Candle Flames

Understanding the science behind these dancing flames can enlighten you (pun intended!) on why certain extinguishing methods are better than others.

Impact of Different Extinguishing Techniques

Different methods have different impacts on your candle’s life and your safety. Let’s explore them together!

The Best Ways to Put Out a Candle

The Magic of Candle Snuffers

Candle snuffers, my personal favourite, are specially designed to safely extinguish candles without causing smoke or wick damage.

Candle Wick Dippers and Their Charm

Wick dippers are another fantastic tool. They gently extinguish the flame and prevent smoke, keeping your candle’s aroma intact.

Debunking the Candle Lid Myth

This is a common query I get: Can you put out candles with the lid? Well, let’s bust this myth together and understand why it’s not the way to go.

Why Using Candle Lids to Extinguish is Risky

Health and Safety Concerns

Covering a candle with its lid can lead to soot production and unexpected hazards – something we want to avoid.

Effects on Candle Quality

Using the lid also affects your candle’s integrity and scent preservation, something dear to all of us candle lovers.

The Real Purpose of Candle Lids

So, why do candles have lids, you ask? It’s not for extinguishing! They’re there to preserve the scent and protect the wax from dust – essential for candle care.

Alternative Candle Care Tips

Caring for your candles extends beyond just extinguishing them correctly. Here are some of my cherished tips to keep your candles in top shape:

• Trim the Wick: Before each burn, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This ensures a cleaner, brighter burn and prevents soot build-up.
• Burn Wisely: Let your candle burn until the entire top layer of wax has melted during each use. This prevents tunnelling and ensures an even burn throughout the candle’s life.
• Store Properly: Keep your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their fragrance and colour.

Wrapping Up with Candle Care Best Practices

As we conclude, let’s revisit some best practices for candle care:

• Use a Heat-Resistant Surface: Always place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface to prevent heat damage to underlying surfaces.
• Avoid Drafts: Place your candles in a spot where they won’t be affected by drafts. This helps them burn more evenly and safely.
• Safety First: Never leave a burning candle unattended, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Your Candle Questions Answered

I know candle care can be full of curiosities. Here are answers to some common questions:

• Q: How long should I burn my candle at a time? A: Ideally, burn your candle for no more than 4 hours at a time. This prevents overheating.

• Q: Why is my candle smoking, and how do I fix it? A: Smoking is often a sign of a too-long wick. Extinguish the candle, let it cool, then trim the wick before relighting.

• Q: Can I reuse the wax from old candles? A: Absolutely! Leftover wax can be melted down to create new candles or used in wax melt warmers.