Candle safety is crucial to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. Whether you're using scented candles, tea lights, or any other type of candle, it's important to follow proper safety guidelines to avoid any accidents. In this blog, we'll share our top tips plus leave you with 4 extra steps you can take to safely burn candles in your home and enjoy their ambiance and fragrance without any mishaps.

Choose the Right Candle Holder

The first step to safely burning candles in your home is to choose the right candle holder. It's important to use a holder that is sturdy, made of heat-resistant material, and large enough to catch any wax drips.

Glass holders are a popular choice, but you should make sure they are thick and sturdy enough to withstand the heat of the flame. Avoid using thin or flimsy holders, as they may crack or break under the heat.

Trim the Wick

Before you light your candle, it's a good idea to trim the wick down to about 1/4 inch. This will help prevent the flame from getting too big, which can cause the candle to burn too quickly and create soot.

If you're using a candle that has already been burned, you'll want to trim the wick down each time you light it. This will help the candle burn more evenly and last longer.

Place the Candle Safely

Where you place your candle is also important for safety. It's important to keep your candle away from drafts, which can cause the flame to flicker and the candle to burn unevenly. You should also avoid placing your candle too close to flammable materials, like curtains or paper.

It's always a good idea to use a candle holder or tray to catch any wax drips and keep your surfaces clean. Make sure the holder is placed on a stable, flat surface where it won't tip over easily.

Don't Leave Candles Unattended

Obviously yes, but it’s never a good idea to leave a burning candle unattended, even for a short period of time. Accidents can happen, and it's important to be present to extinguish the flame if necessary.

If you do need to leave the room, make sure to extinguish the candle first. It's also a good idea to keep a candle snuffer or a spoon nearby to help you safely extinguish the flame.

Keep Candles Out of Reach of Children and Pets

Candles should always be kept out of reach of children and pets. Not only can they be a fire hazard, but they can also be a choking hazard if ingested.

It's a good idea to keep candles on high shelves or in hard-to-reach places where children and pets can't get to them. If you have young children or pets in your home, it's especially important to be extra cautious with candle use.

Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions

Each candle is different, so it's always a good idea to read the manufacturer's instructions and follow their recommendations for the best results. This includes information on burn time, wick trimming, and any other safety guidelines. By following the manufacturer's instructions, you can help ensure that your candle burns safely and effectively, and that you get the most out of it.

4 Extra Steps for Safe Candle Use in Your Home

Here’s a few more tips to help you safely burn candles in your home:

• Use a candle topper: A candle topper is a small piece of wood or metal that sits on top of your candle as it burns. It helps to evenly distribute the heat, which can help your candle burn longer and more evenly.
• Avoid using candles in high-traffic areas: It's a good idea to avoid using candles in areas where people will be walking or moving around a lot. This can help prevent accidental spills or knocks that could cause a fire. 
•  Keep an eye on the wax pool: As the candle burns, the wax will melt and form a pool around the wick. It's important to keep an eye on the size of the wax pool and make sure it doesn't get too big. If the wax pool gets too close to the edge of the candle holder, it could cause the holder to heat up and become a fire hazard.
• Use caution with scented candles: Some scented candles can release chemicals into the air as they burn, so it's important to use caution when burning them. If you have allergies or sensitivities, you may want to opt for unscented candles or natural soy wax candles instead.

 By following these tips, you can help ensure that you safely burn candles in your home and enjoy their ambiance and fragrance without any mishaps. With a little bit of caution and common sense, candles can be a wonderful addition to any home.