Safely Reap the Benefits of Using Candles in Your Home

4/27/2023 (Permalink)

Candles can add warmth, ambiance, and a pleasant scent to any room in your home. However, if not used properly, they can also pose a significant fire risk. In this blog, we will discuss how to safely reap the benefits of using candles in your home.

Types of Candles

Before we delve into safety tips, let's review the different types of candles. The most common types are paraffin, beeswax, and soy wax. Paraffin candles are made from petroleum and can be molded into any shape. Beeswax candles have a natural, pleasant scent and color but are also the most expensive. Soy wax candles are made from natural ingredients, making them an eco-friendly option.

Safety Precautions

Candles should always be used with caution to avoid starting a fire. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Keep candles away from flammable objects. Make sure to keep candles at least 12 inches away from curtains, bedding, and other flammable objects.

Never leave a burning candle unattended. Always make sure to blow out candles before leaving the room or going to bed.

Keep out of reach of children, pets, and animals. Candles should be placed out of reach of curious children and pets who may accidentally knock them over.

Extinguishing Candles

Extinguishing candles properly is just as important as using them safely. Here are two methods to safely extinguish candles:

Snuff out the flame. Use a snuffer or a lid to snuff out the flame. This method is especially useful for candles that have been burning for a long time.

Blow out the candle. If you don't have a snuffer or lid, blowing out the candle is a simple and effective method. Be sure to blow gently to avoid hot wax splattering.

Cleaning Up Spilled Wax

Spilled candle wax is a common occurrence. Here are some tips on how to clean it up:

Remove any large pieces of wax. Use a scraper or the edge of a credit card to remove large pieces of wax.

Use a paper bag to remove the remaining wax. Place a paper bag over the remaining wax and use a warm iron to melt the wax. The wax will transfer to the paper bag.

Use hot, soapy water to clean up the residue. Use hot water and dish soap to clean any remaining residue. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly to avoid mold or mildew growth.

Types of Candle Holders

Candle holders not only add to the aesthetic of your candles but can also provide a layer of safety. Here are some common types of candle holders:

Tealight holders. These small holders are designed for small votive candles.

Pillar holders. These holders are designed for long, slender candles and have a flat bottom to keep them upright.

Candle Accessories

Candle accessories can help make using candles safer and more convenient. Here are some common accessories:

• Candle snuffers. These are used to extinguish candles and come in various shapes and sizes.
• Candle lighters. These devices look like small blowtorches and can safely extinguish any type of candle.
• Wick trimmers. These tools can be used to trim wicks before lighting, making the candle burn more evenly.

Candles can be a beautiful addition to any home, but they must be used with caution. By following these safety tips and using the appropriate accessories, you can safely reap the benefits of using candles in your home.