How to Put Out a Candle: The Art of Extinguishing Without the Smoke
Reading Time: 5 minutes Introduction
Candles have always played an essential role in home dĆ©cor, relaxation, and even spiritual rituals. But have you ever wondered about the best way to put out a candle without smoke? Understanding how to put out a candle properly can enhance the life of your candle, keep your candles looking their best, and preserve the original fragrance. Let’s dive into the world of candle care!
The Right Ways to Extinguish Your Candle
Using a Snuffer
Candle snuffer is an age-old tool designed to extinguish candles without the hassle. It’s bell-shaped, often made of a small metal, and it won’t create that wisp of smoke escape that simply blowing out the flame might cause.
How to use a snuffer:
- Approach the candle wick gently with the snuffer.
- Enclose the flame without pressing it too hard.
- Hold for a second until the flame goes out.
The Wick Dipper Method
A wick dipper is a long metal rod that helps bend the wick into the pool of wax, extinguishing the candle flame without much smoke.
How to use a wick dipper:
- Use the dipper tool to press the wick into the melted wax.
- Pull the wick back up and let it cool.
- The coating the wick in wax will lengthen the life of your candle.
Blowing Out the Candle
Sometimes, the simplest way to put out candles is by using your lips together and giving a gentle blow. While we don’t recommend this as the best method, itās probably still a party trick to some. Be cautious of hot wax splatter!
Candle Aftercare: Wax, Wick, and More
Wax Care
Taking care of your candle wax is essential. Preventing tunneling ensures an even burn. Make sure to trim the wick every time you relight your candle.
Tips:
- Avoid blowing out the candle too forcefully to prevent wax around the glass container.
- For soy-based candles, soy wax will need extra care to prevent sooty residues.
Wick Maintenance
Using a wick trimmer, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn. Removing the burnt wick will enhance the scent and prevent soot.
Tips:
- Use a wick dipper to bend the wick without breaking it.
- Lengthen the life of your candle by keeping the wick straight.
Conclusion
Understanding how to put out a candle flame properly is an art that combines aesthetics, science, and sensibility. Whether you opt for a traditional snuffer or experiment with a wick dipper, the goal is to extinguish the flame without smoke and keep your indoor air quality at its best.
Remember, never leave a candle unattended, and always extinguish it with care. Happy candle burning for a cozy evening with your favorite scented candle!
FAQ
Q: What is the best way to put out a candle?
A: The best way to put out a candle is by using a candle snuffer or a wick dipper, instead of simply blowing it out. These tools help to extinguish the flame without producing an excessive amount of smoke.
Q: Why should I use a lid to put out a scented candle?
A: Using a lid to extinguish a scented candle can help to contain the scent within the container. This practice not only reduces any smokiness but also preserves the candleās scent for the next use.
Q: What are the safest ways to extinguish a pillar candle?
A: The safest way to extinguish a pillar candle is by snuffing it out using a metal tool known as a snuffer. You can also use a wick dipper to bring the wick into the wax which will extinguish the open flame without producing too much smoke or sparks.
Q: What should I avoid when I put out a candle?
A: The last thing you want to do is blow out a candle directly, as this can produce a significant amount of smoke and possibly spread hot wax or cause a flare-up. Water should also be avoided, as it can cause a reaction with the hot wax, creating water vapor and possibly a burst of flame.
Q: Can I use a paperclip to put out the flame?
A: Yes, carefully using a bent paperclip or a similar device can put out the flame by immersing the wick into the wax. However, be very careful not to drip wax onto your skin or nearby surfaces.
Q: How do I put out a candle that is burning in a jar?
A: Jar candles can be safely extinguished by using the lid, if it has one. The lid creates a lack of oxygen that will extinguish the candle. Always remember to allow the candle to cool completely before touching.
Q: Why do experts recommend putting out candles using a snuffer or lid?
A: Experts recommend putting out candles with a snuffer or lid as it minimizes the amount of smoke produced and prevents hot or flaming wick particles from being blown out of the candle, which can cause a fire.
Q: Are there tools specifically designed to put out candles?
A: Yes, there are specific tools designed to extinguish candles, such as the candle snuffer and wick dipper. These tools are designed in a way that controls the amount of oxygen flow, which prevents heavy smoke from being released.
Q: How do I care for a candle after extinguishing it?
A: After you extinguish a candle, let it cool completely. Once cool, you should remove the wick and any debris from the wax. Trim the wick to a quarter inch before the next use to prevent it from generating too much heat or causing a lopsided burn.
Q: Why does a wick dipper produce less smoke when used to put out a candle?
A: A wick dipper puts out the candle by sharply bending the lit wick into the wax, which quickly extinguishes the flame. This practice omits the large plume of smoke that is typically produced when you blow out a candle.
