Why You Should Keep Your Candle Away from Draughts

Why You Should Keep Your Candle Away from Draughts

Draughts are pockets of moving air that can blow out a candle flame or cause it to flicker. This can be caused by anything from an open window or door to a ceiling fan or air conditioning unit. While it may seem harmless, a candle flame that is repeatedly extinguished and relit can lead to a build-up of soot and an uneven burn, which can be dangerous.

What is a Draught?

A draught, also spelt “draft,” is a flow of air through space, often caused by differences in air pressure. Draughts can be caused by open doors or windows, vents, fans, or even a person walking past a candle. It is important to note that even a small amount of air movement can affect a candle flame.

How Draughts Affect Candle Flames

When a candle flame is exposed to a draught, the flame can flicker and become unsteady. This can cause the candle to burn unevenly and may result in the flame being extinguished. If the candle is relit after being blown out, the wick can become too long and create a larger, more unstable flame. This can lead to excess soot buildup and, in extreme cases, a fire.

Other Candle Safety Tips

In addition to keeping your candle away from draughts, there are several other important safety tips to follow when burning candles. These include:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep candles away from flammable objects, such as curtains or bedding.
• Use a candle holder that is sturdy and heat-resistant.
• Keep candles away from high-traffic areas where they can be bumped or knocked over.

Caring for Your Candle

To ensure your candle burns safely and evenly, it is important to care for it properly. This includes:

• Trimming the wick to ¼ inch before each use.
• Allowing the candle to burn for at least one hour per inch of diameter to create a full melt pool.
• Extinguishing the candle by snuffing it out instead of blowing it out, which can cause the hot wax to splatter and increase the risk of fire.
• Keeping the candle free of debris and trimming any mushrooming on the wick.

When to Replace Your Candle

As candles burn, they can become less effective and may pose a greater risk of fire. It is recommended to replace a candle once it has burned down to within 2 inches of the holder. Additionally, if a candle has been burned for more than four hours in a single use, it is recommended to extinguish it and wait for it to cool before relighting.

How to Safely Dispose of Candles

Once a candle has burned down, it is important to dispose of it safely. Allow the wax to cool and solidify before removing any remaining wax from the holder. If the holder is reusable, it can be washed with soap and water. If the holder is not reusable or is damaged, it should be discarded. Never dispose of hot wax in the trash or down the drain.

Final Thoughts on Candle Safety

Candles can provide warmth and ambience in your home, but it is important to use them safely. Keep your candle away from draughts, never leave a burning candle unattended, and follow the other safety tips outlined in this article. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your candles without risking your safety.