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How To Burn A Candle Safely Indoors
TFew things can create a cosy and tranquil atmosphere quite like the warm, flickering glow of your favourite candles. However, it's essential to prioritize safety when enjoying them. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about safely burning candles, from selecting the right type to extinguishing them properly. So, let's dive into the world of candle safety!
Is it safe to burn candles indoors?
Burning candles indoors is generally safe, but it's crucial to adhere to safety guidelines. Some candles release chemicals into the air, so knowing what's in your candle and any potential risks is essential. For most everyday candles, the risks are minimal. While some may contain toxins, the quantities are usually negligible and not a significant cause for concern. Think of it as similar to cooking in your oven; there's no need to worry excessively. Just be mindful when choosing candles, opt for high-quality, natural options, and ensure you light them in well-ventilated spaces.
Good ventilation is crucial to maintain indoor air quality when burning candles. Additionally, consider fire risks; always place candles away from flammable objects like curtains or blankets, and never leave them unattended. While it's wise to follow best practices, scientific evidence suggests that candles pose little serious health risk if used cautiously and in well-ventilated spaces. The therapeutic benefits often outweigh the minimal risks for most people.
Which candles are the safest to use?
The type of wax your candle is made from plays a significant role in eliminating safety concerns related to toxins. Opt for candles made with natural waxes for a healthier choice.
Soy wax candles are known for clean burning and are environmentally friendly. Beeswax candles, on the other hand, are entirely natural, non-allergenic, and have a longer burn time compared to traditional paraffin candles.
Is it safe to leave a candle burning overnight?
No, you shouldn’t leave a candle burning overnight. While the risks from candles are generally minimal, unattended candles can pose fire risks. We’d always recommend blowing out candles before bed or when you feel yourself becoming tired, to eliminate the risk of accidentally falling asleep with the candle still burning.
How to melt candle wax safely
Melting candle wax can be done using various methods, with the stovetop and microwave being the most common. To ensure safe wax melting, always keep an eye on it and never leave the room while it's melting. Avoid overheating by melting the wax gently in two-minute intervals and handle it with care when hot. For more detailed information on how to melt candle wax safely, refer to our dedicated guide. how to melt candle wax.
How to safely put out a candle
Extinguishing a candle safely is crucial. Never use your fingers or liquids to put out a candle. Instead, use a wick snuffer, a cone-shaped tool with a handle. It prevents air and oxygen from reaching the flame, extinguishing it safely..
The importance of candle safety symbols
We’ve talked a lot about general candle safety, but what about candle safety from a seller point of view?
Knowing the basics of candle safety is highly important for both you and your customers if you intend to sell to the public. Your warning instructions for burning a candle can be in the form of a sticker, combined with your CLP, provided through the use of warning symbols and icons or you could include a candle care card in your package.
Under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005, it is required that all producers and distributors of any potentially dangerous product must be fully labelled with information and warnings relating to that product. Our candle safety label contains all the relevant information and warnings your customers need to know about safely using your candles. It is a requirement that the General Warning Sign be included in all labelling. Our safety labels come in packs of 10, 100 and rolls of 1,000 with a label size of 50 mm x 50 mm.
28 Candle Safety Tips
Here’s everything you need to know to keep safe before, during, and after burning a candle.
Candle safety tips: Before burning
• Remove any packaging from a candle before lighting, except warning labels and CLPs
• Read the warning label
• Always trim your wick to 5mm before each burn (wick trimmers are a must have!)
• Wipe away any dust or debris from a candle’s surface before burning
• Do not burn a candle if the container is chipped or cracked
• Do not burn decorative candles that contain foreign objects, glitters or botanicals
• Do not burn if there is less than 5mm of wax left in the jar
Candle safety tips: During burning
• Never leave a burning candle unattended
• Do not leave a candle burning when you go to bed or leave the house
• Light candles away from draughts
• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets
• Place candles on non-flammable, sturdy surfaces
• Do not try to move a burning candle
• Never place your candle closer than 60cm underneath an object
• Leave at least a 6-inch gap between candles if you're lighting more than one
• Try not to burn your candle for more than 4 hours
• Do not place near a heat source
• Keep your candle upright
• Keep the wax pool clear of matches and debris
• Avoid direct inhalation of any smoke
• If it is a pillar candle that liquefies, use a suitable container or cover
• Only use in holders and warming stoves with sufficient ventilation
Candle safety tips: After burning
• Put your candle out carefully. We suggest using a wick snuffer
• Never use liquids to extinguish a flame
• Do not extinguish a candle by placing the lid on the jar
• Trim your wick again before your next burn
• Place your lid on your candle to avoid dust and debris whilst not in us
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