Jessie Taylor
Blowing out a candle is not as simple as one might think. There are several popular methods for extinguishing a candle, including blowing it out, putting a lid on it, using a wick dipper, and using a candle snuffer. However, some methods are better than others. Blowing out a candle can cause wax to splatter, create issues with the wax such as tunneling and unevenness, and allow the candle wick to emit a lot of smoke, which can alter the scent of the candle. Using a lid to extinguish a candle can also alter the scent as the smoke becomes trapped inside and infuses with the wax. The best methods for putting out a candle are using a wick dipper, which extinguishes the flame with minimal smoke, and using a candle snuffer, which extinguishes the flame without the use of blowing.
Characteristics and Values of Blowing Out a Candle
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Risk of blowing wax everywhere | High |
| Tunneling and unevenness in wax | Likely |
| Wick emitting a lot of smoke | High |
| Reduced effect of cold throw | Yes |
| Reduced effect of residual warm throw | Yes |
| Trapped smoke in the wax | Yes |
| Infused smoke in melted wax | Yes |
| Possible change in scent | Yes |
| Coating of soot inside the candle vessel | Yes |
| Wick health | Poor |
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What You'll Learn
Blowing out a candle: the risks of wax and smoke
Blowing out a candle may seem like the most straightforward way to extinguish the flame, but it comes with several risks. The first is the possibility of blowing hot wax everywhere, which can be a safety hazard. Blowing out a candle can also cause issues with the wax, such as tunneling and unevenness. Tunneling occurs when a candle is blown out before the entire surface has melted, causing the candle to only melt to a certain point and leaving a coating of unusable wax along the inside of the vessel. This not only affects the appearance of the candle but also reduces its usefulness, as the wax is no longer able to be burned evenly.
In addition to the risks associated with the wax, blowing out a candle can also release a lot of smoke. This smoke can reduce the scent of the candle, both while it is burning (warm throw) and after it has been extinguished (cold throw). The smoke can also coat the inside of the candle vessel with soot, affecting the appearance and scent of the candle.
To avoid these risks, some people recommend using a wick dipper or a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame. A wick dipper is a long handle with a hook on one end that is used to quickly dip the wick into the melted wax, extinguishing the flame with minimal smoke. A candle snuffer has a long handle with a bell-shaped end that is placed over the flame to snuff it out. These methods can help to reduce the amount of smoke released and prevent wax from being blown everywhere.
Another method that is sometimes used is putting a lid on the candle to extinguish the flame. However, this method can also have drawbacks. If the lid is put on too tightly, it can get suctioned to the jar and become difficult to remove. Additionally, the smoke can become trapped inside the jar, infusing back into the melted wax and potentially altering the scent. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid blowing out a candle directly or using the lid method, as these can affect the quality and scent of the candle.
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Using a lid: trapping smoke and altering scent
Using a lid to extinguish a candle is a popular method, but it has some drawbacks. The primary issue is that it traps smoke inside the candle, which can infuse back into the melted wax and alter the scent. This can be mitigated by not putting the lid on too tightly, allowing the smoke to escape.
When the smoke gets trapped, it can cause the candle to emit a sooty smell, and the wax may also be affected, taking on a burnt odour. This can be avoided by blowing the smoke away after extinguishing the flame with the lid.
Another issue with using a lid to blow out a candle is that it can cause the lid to get stuck to the jar. This happens due to the suction created when the hot air inside the jar cools down, creating a vacuum seal. To prevent this, it is recommended to not put the lid on too tightly and to release the smoke before it cools down completely.
While using a lid to blow out a candle is a convenient option, it is important to be aware of these potential issues. Alternative methods, such as using a wick dipper or a candle snuffer, can be more effective in preserving the scent and condition of the candle.
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The wick dipper: extinguishing with minimal smoke
Blowing out a candle is not recommended as it can cause issues with the wax, such as unevenness and tunneling. It can also cause the wick to emit a lot of smoke, which can alter the scent of the candle. Similarly, using the lid to extinguish a candle can also cause the candle to become sooty and alter its scent.
A wick dipper is a recommended way to extinguish a candle with minimal smoke. Wick dippers usually have a long handle with a hook at one end. To extinguish the candle, use the wick dipper to quickly dip the wick into the melted wax and then lift it back out. This will instantly put out the candle with very little smoke. Dipping the wick also helps improve the condition of the wick for future burns and lightly coats the wick in wax, making it easier to relight.
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Candle snuffers: a favourite method
Blowing out a candle may seem like the most obvious solution, but it is not always the best method. Blowing out candles can cause wax to splatter, and the smoke can ruin the scent of the candle. The same goes for using a lid to extinguish the flame—the smoke can get trapped in the wax, ruining the scent.
A popular alternative is to use a candle snuffer, which is a favourite method for many. Candle snuffers are bell, cylinder, pyramid or disc-shaped cones with handles on one end. They are placed over the lit wick to keep air away from the flame, causing it to extinguish. This method is superior to blowing out a candle because it prevents wax and soot from being blown around and potentially getting stuck inside the candle vessel. It also protects the quality of the candle, allowing it to continue burning properly.
To use a candle snuffer, hold it over the candle and lower the bell end onto the lit flame. Ensure the snuffer does not dip into the melted wax. Once the flame is extinguished, hold the snuffer in place for a moment before removing it.
Candle snuffers are readily available in various sizes and can usually be found wherever candles are sold. They are also affordable and can add a sense of sophistication to your home decor.
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Dipping wicks: improving candle health
There are several ways to extinguish a candle, but not all methods are created equal. Blowing out a candle is a quick and easy way to extinguish the flame, but it can cause issues with wax buildup and unevenness, known as "tunneling." It also releases a lot of smoke, which can alter the scent of the candle and leave an unpleasant sooty residue.
An alternative method to improve candle health is to use a wick dipper. This tool has a long handle with a hook on one end. To use it, simply dip the wick into the melted wax and then lift it back out. This method instantly extinguishes the flame with minimal smoke, and it has the added benefit of coating the wick in wax, making it easier to relight. Regular use of a wick dipper can improve the condition of the wicks, making them last longer and burn more evenly.
Another benefit of dipping wicks is that it helps to prevent the buildup of soot in the jar or on the wick, which can alter the scent and appearance of the candle. By coating the wick in wax, you're creating a barrier that protects the wick from the elements and helps it burn more efficiently.
For those who enjoy scented candles, dipping the wicks is particularly beneficial. The absence of smoke means that the lingering scent of the candle can be enjoyed without disruption. This method also ensures that the jar or vessel remains free from soot, preserving the aesthetic appeal of the candle.
In summary, dipping wicks is a simple yet effective way to improve the health of your candles. It helps to create a more even burn, prolongs the life of the wick, and maintains the integrity of the candle's scent and appearance. So, the next time you reach for a match or a lighter, remember to grab your wick dipper too!
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Frequently asked questions
While blowing out a candle is a quick and easy way to extinguish the flame, it is not recommended as it can cause hot wax to splatter, and the smoke can ruin the scent of the candle. Instead, it is recommended to use a wick dipper, candle snuffer, or the lid of the candle to put out the flame.
A wick dipper is a tool with a long handle and a hook at one end. To extinguish the candle, use the wick dipper to quickly dip the wick into the melted wax and then lift it back out. This will instantly put out the candle with very little smoke.
A candle snuffer is a tool with a long handle and a bell-shaped end. Hold the snuffer over the candle and lower the bell end onto the lit flame. Once the flame is fully enveloped, hold it there for a moment until the flame goes out. Ensure that the snuffer does not touch the melted wax.
