Candle Safety Guide: Proper Use and Extinguishing Tips

Candles have been a part of human history for thousands of years, providing light, warmth, and even a sense of ritual and ceremony. But as much as we love the ambiance that candles can bring to our homes, it's important to remember that they are also a source of fire and must be used with caution. In this blog post, we will be providing a guide on how to burn candles safely, so that you can enjoy their beauty and benefits while minimising any potential risks.

First and foremost, it's important to remember that the first burn of a candle is the most important. This is because it sets the "memory" of the candle and determines how it will burn in the future. To ensure that the first burn goes smoothly, it's important to eliminate any draughts when lighting the candle. This will prevent flickering and smoke, as well as dripping. Additionally, it's best to place lit candles at least 10cm apart to avoid melting and warping due to heat from neighbouring candles.

Another important aspect of burning candles safely is to ensure that the candle wick is trimmed to 6mm each time before burning. Long or crooked wicks can cause uneven burning and dripping. Additionally, it's best to place the candle on a level, heat resistant surface, and to use a heat-resistant candleholder specifically designed for candle use. Make sure to keep the wax pool clear of any matches, wick trimmings, or other debris.

To avoid tunneling, which is when the candle burns down the middle but leaves wax around the edges, it's important to light all wicks and allow the wax pool to reach the container edges. Additionally, it's best not to move a burning candle and to avoid placing it near an open window, in a drafty area, or near a fan or air duct. Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room and do not burn the candle for less than 1 hour or more than 3 hours at a time.

When it comes to multiple wick candles, it's important to ensure that all wicks are lit every time the candle is used. Additionally, it's best to discontinue burning a candle when 5cm of wax remains or 1.5cm if it's in a container. The remaining wax can always be used in a wax burner by removing the centre wick.

In conclusion, burning candles safely is essential to ensure that you can enjoy their beauty and benefits without any potential risks. We hope that this guide has provided you with valuable information on how to burn candles safely. Remember to always follow the guidelines provided by the ACCC website and Fire and Rescue NSW, and be aware that our candles are made of various shapes and sizes, burn time, and wick length will determine their burn.

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