Discover essential candle safety tips to enjoy a warm, cozy atmosphere without risks—learn how to burn, place, and care for your candles properly.
Candles not only provide a warm glow but also create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. However, since they involve an open flame, following safety guidelines is essential. The placement of candles, wick trimming, and burn time all play a role in both your enjoyment and safety.
Julie Maskulka, founder and CEO of Anecdote Candles, shares expert advice on how to use candles correctly. She explains why trimming wicks regularly is important, the ideal burn time, and tips to extend the life of your candles. If you want to enjoy their delightful fragrance without worry, these safety rules are a must.
Never Leave a Burning Candle Unattended
Leaving a candle burning without supervision is a serious fire hazard.
“Always place candles in an area where you can monitor them and enjoy their fragrance,” Maskulka advises. If you forget about a burning candle, it can cause fire or damage nearby objects. Never leave a candle lit when you go to sleep or leave the house.
Keep Candles Away From Drafts
The placement of a candle affects both safety and longevity.
“Avoid placing candles in drafty areas, such as near open windows or air vents,” Maskulka warns. Drafts can cause uneven burning, weaken the fragrance, or even blow out the flame, splattering hot wax around the area.
Trim the Wick Before Each Use
A small step that makes a big difference in how a candle burns.
“Always trim the wick before lighting the candle, and even during the burn session if needed,” Maskulka emphasizes.
A long wick can cause excessive soot, faster wax consumption, and uneven burning. Trimming it regularly allows the candle to burn cleaner, last longer, and improve its overall performance. In fact, it can extend the candle’s lifespan by up to 20%.
Burn a Candle for 3-4 Hours at a Time
Burning a candle too long can be dangerous, but not burning it long enough can cause tunneling.
“The ideal burn time is 3–4 hours per session, allowing the wax to melt evenly to the edges,” Maskulka explains. If a candle burns too long, the top layer of wax may disappear too quickly, reducing its fragrance strength.
Choose the Right Candle Size for Your Space
Candle size plays a bigger role in scent performance than you might think.
“Pick a candle size that matches the size of the room,” Maskulka recommends. If the candle is too small, the scent won’t spread well. If it’s too large, it may overpower a small space.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Small travel tins work best in bathrooms.
- Jar candles are ideal for medium-sized rooms like bedrooms or living rooms.
- Large candles work well in open spaces or large rooms.
Place Candles on Heat-Resistant Surfaces
Never place a candle directly on delicate surfaces like wooden tables or shelves.
“Candles generate heat, which can cause damage if not placed on a heat-safe surface,” Maskulka warns. Use a metal or glass coaster to protect your furniture and prevent overheating.
Be Cautious When Using Candles in the Bathroom
Bathrooms are one of the easiest places to forget a burning candle.
“Many people light candles in bathrooms for relaxation but then forget about them,” Maskulka notes.
Additionally, bathrooms often contain flammable products such as hairspray or perfume. If placed too close to a mirror, the heat reflection can cause uneven burning or make the container excessively hot. To stay safe, always position candles wisely and check them before leaving.
Enjoy Candles Safely and Worry-Free
By following these simple safety rules, you can enjoy the warm glow and soothing scents of your candles without any risks. Stay mindful, and create a cozy, hazard-free atmosphere in your home.