Candle Care & Instructions
Candles are a popular source of ambiance and fragrance in homes and commercial spaces. However, proper usage is essential to ensure safety and maximise the benefits of candle burning. This document outlines the best practices for burning candles, as well as potential hazards associated with improper use.
To begin with, it is crucial to place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface. This prevents the risk of the candle tipping over or causing damage to furniture and flooring. Additionally, ensure that the candle is kept away from flammable materials, such as curtains, paper, or other combustible items.
Before lighting a candle, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. A shorter wick helps to control the flame size and reduces soot production, which can be harmful to indoor air quality. It is recommended to extinguish the candle if the flame becomes too high or flickers excessively, as this may indicate that the wick needs trimming or that the candle is burning improperly.
When burning a candle, it is advisable to allow it to melt evenly across the surface. This typically requires burning the candle for at least one hour for every inch in diameter. For example, a 3-inch diameter candle should burn for at least three hours during each use. This practice prevents tunneling, where the wax burns down the center, leaving a significant amount of wax around the edges.
Never leave a burning candle unattended. It is also important to keep candles out of reach of children and pets, as they may inadvertently knock them over or come into contact with the flame.