Light Them Right

Did you know that there was a technique to burning candles? You must have definitely purchased expensive pillar or fragrant aromatic candles at sometime. They work brilliantly to set the mood for the evening or to create the perfect ambiance for a party or special occasion. And many-a-time you might have experienced frustration when the said candle burnt itself into an ugly blob as it messily dripped wax down one side.

Now, this may not be the end of the world, but surely candle lovers would be happy to know that they can curb this messy end to their favourite candle just by following the right method to burn and extinguish these beautiful accessories.

By following some simple burning techniques one can actually ensure complete longevity for the candle and complete value for the money you have spent!

Here’s what you have to do 

-When you first burn a candle, let it burn for a minimum of three hours before putting it out. This will ensure that a melt pool is formed and the candle can solidify evenly.

-Do not blow out the candle to put it out. This will supply carbon dioxide to the flame and will produce more soot and smoke. Instead, use a snuffer which will cut out the oxygen supply. The soot will get collected in the snuffer and not on your furniture. This way you also avoid the risk of spilling molten wax on your precious carpet or the curtain.

-Buy a snuffer that has a hinge and a long handle so you can also extinguish candles that are kept at a height.

-Before burning a used candle, always use a tissue to clean the carbon mushroom that accumulates on top of the wick. 

-Never let any dirt or carbon mushroom particles fall on your candle. If they do, there are chances that they might get ignited again and cause uneven burning.

-When you are planning to buy a candle at a store, always sniff the dome that covers the candle. A dome is made of glass and does not have any smell of its own. Thus it will smell only of the candle. By smelling a candle directly, you may get the smell of wax, which can be unpleasant.

-Although beeswax is expensive, soya wax is cheaper and has the same good qualities of soft wax. Most luxury candles are made of soya wax these days.

-Don’t leave your candle unused for more than a year because the scent will fade away. A candle, however pretty it may be, has to be lit within a certain time period, else it will just go to waste.

-Always use an even holder to place your candles. This will prevent your candle from burning down on one side.

-You may opt for candles with wooden wicks. These provide a fireplace-like crackle and pop sound that add fun to the ambience.

If you really want to enjoy your candle to its last drop of wax, and get real value for your money, then just keep these simple techniques in mind.