Ben Carter
Blowing out a candle is a common method of extinguishing it, but it can be messy and even dangerous. The hot wax may splatter, and the smoke released may contain indoor pollutants. There are several safer alternatives to blowing out a candle, such as using a candle snuffer, wick dipper, or even your fingers. These methods can help to avoid the mess and potential hazards associated with blowing out a candle.
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What You'll Learn
Use a candle snuffer
A candle snuffer, also known as a candle extinguisher or douter, is a simple tool used to extinguish a candle safely and quickly. It is a superior alternative to blowing out a candle as 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.
Candle snuffers have been around since ancient Rome and were commonly used in homes and churches. They are usually made of metal and come in various styles and shapes, such as bells, cylinders, or discs with long handles. The bell-shaped snuffer, with a small cup at the end of the handle, is the most common type. To use it, gently hover the bell over the wick without dipping it into the wax. This will deprive the flame of oxygen, gradually stifling it without creating smoke or soot.
When using a candle snuffer, it is important to pay attention to how you hold it over the candle. Hold it gently over the wick for about 10 seconds without letting it touch the wax. This will prevent the snuffer from bumping against the wick and ensure that no debris drops into the wax. With practice, you can master the art of using a candle snuffer to extinguish your candles elegantly and safely.
Candle snuffers are not only functional but also add a decorative touch to your candle display. They are affordable and can be found wherever candles are sold. Whether you are a candle enthusiast or simply looking for an elegant home decor accessory, a candle snuffer is a worthwhile investment.
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Dip the wick into the wax
Dipping the wick into the wax is a safe and effective way to extinguish a candle. This method is preferable to blowing out a candle, which can cause smoke, spread wax, release indoor pollutants, and even be a fire hazard.
To extinguish a candle by dipping the wick into the wax, you will need a wick dipper. A wick dipper is a long metal rod with a tapered or curved end. Use the wick dipper to bend the wick into the wax pool on the surface of the candle. This will put out the flame without releasing any smoke.
An alternative to a wick dipper is a pencil or a pair of tweezers. Once the flame is extinguished, use the tool in your hand to keep the wick upright again.
Extinguishing the candle in its own wax has the added benefit of conditioning the wick. This will allow the candle to light more easily and stay lit for longer during future uses.
It is important to note that the ideal time to extinguish a candle is when the entire surface of the candle has melted, i.e., when the melted wax has covered the entire circumference of the container. Putting out a candle before this will lead to tunnelling, where only the wax around the centre of the wick melts, decreasing the fragrance and glow and leading to wax wastage.
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Extinguish with wet fingers
While it may seem simple, extinguishing a candle requires more than just snuffing out the flame. It's about minimizing smoke, preventing wax splatter, and, most importantly, reducing the risk of accidental fires.
One method to extinguish a candle is to use your fingers, and there are a few ways to do this. Firstly, it is important to note that you should not attempt to extinguish a candle with your fingers without wetting them first. Wetting your fingers helps to protect your skin from the heat of the flame and reduces the risk of burning yourself. You can wet your fingers by licking them or using water from a nearby source, like a sink or drinking glass.
Once your fingers are wet, you can then pinch and release the wick quickly. Grasp the wick between your two fingers and immediately let go. The moisture should cause the flame to die as soon as you make contact. Be careful not to touch the hot wax, as it can still burn you. You may feel a warm sensation, but the heat will dissipate almost instantly once the flame is out.
With practice, you may be able to extinguish a candle with your fingers without wetting them first. However, this requires perfect timing and a certain level of bravery! It is important to note that attempting to extinguish a candle with your fingers is more of a party trick than a practical everyday solution. Always be cautious when moving your hands near an open flame, as even a small one can cause serious burns.
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Trim the wick
Trimming the wick of a candle is a major part of candle maintenance and can help prolong the life of your candle. It is recommended to trim the wick to a height of 1/4 inches above the wax. This will help to maintain a healthy flame height, which is typically between 1/2 an inch to 1 inch. If the flame is too tall, it will burn the candle improperly, causing the wax to melt faster and increasing the risk of a fire.
Trimming the wick also ensures an even burn and prevents tunneling. As a candle burns, the wick can start to split and the burnt pieces may break off into the wax, forming debris. This debris can then reignite, presenting a fire hazard. Therefore, it is important to trim the wick regularly, especially if you burn your candles for long periods of time. It is recommended to trim the wick at least every 4 hours of burn time.
You can use a wick trimmer, which is a long scissor-like device specifically designed for trimming candle wicks. The blades of a wick trimmer are shaped like little plates to catch the wick debris after cutting. If you don't have a wick trimmer, you can also use nail clippers, manicure scissors, or regular scissors. When using scissors, approach the wick from the top and try to cut it evenly across, not at an angle, for a cleaner burn.
It is best to trim the wick before lighting the candle, as the wax will still be in its solid form, making the trimming process easier. However, if you accidentally cut the wick too short, you can salvage the candle by lighting it and letting it burn for about 30 minutes to melt the wax. Then, extinguish the flame and dispose of the melted wax before relighting the candle.
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Blow it out
Blowing out a candle is a common method of extinguishing it, but it requires proper care to avoid creating a mess or causing minor burns. Here is a guide on how to do it effectively and safely:
Firstly, it is important to assess the type of wick and flame you are dealing with. For a classic cotton wick with a small, teardrop-shaped flame, blowing it out is a suitable method. Before blowing, hold your hand close to the flame to feel if any heat is coming off. This is a safety precaution to ensure you don't get too close and accidentally burn yourself. If the room is drafty, you can place your hand near the base of the candle to shield the flame while you blow.
To blow out the candle, purse your lips together and exhale suddenly through the small opening. The key is to create a thin stream of air that will extinguish the flame in one quick gust. Continue blowing until the flame is completely out. Be careful not to blow too forcefully, as this can cause hot wax to splatter, creating a mess or potentially causing burns.
If the candle is in a drafty area, you can use your hand to shield the flame while blowing. Alternatively, you can use a lid or cover made from non-flammable materials like metal or glass to protect the flame from drafts before blowing it out. Make sure to keep the candle away from flammable objects or materials that could catch fire.
While blowing out a candle is a simple and common method, it can produce smoke and leave behind soot or wax residue. If you prefer a cleaner method, you can use a metal candle snuffer or even dip the wick into the wax to extinguish the flame without smoke or mess.
Remember, safety should always come first when dealing with open flames. Ensure you follow proper precautions and never leave a burning candle unattended.
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Frequently asked questions
You can't extinguish a candle with your mind. However, if you want to impress your friends by extinguishing a candle with your fingers, simply lick your fingers, quickly grab the wick and let go.
Make sure your fingers are wet, either by licking them or dipping them in water. This will protect your skin from the heat of the flame.
You can use a candle snuffer, a wick dipper, or a lid made from non-flammable materials such as concrete, stone, metal, glass, or ceramic.
Stand clear of the smoke and extinguish your candle in a well-ventilated area. Keep your distance from the extinguished candle to prevent soot from depositing on your skin or clothes.
