Maddie James
There are many ways to extinguish a jar candle, but some are better than others. Blowing out a candle may seem like the obvious choice, but it can cause issues with the wax, such as unevenness and tunneling, and it can also leave behind a sooty mess. Another option is to put a lid on the candle, but this can trap smoke and soot inside the jar, affecting the fragrance and appearance of the wax. A wick dipper is a popular choice as it instantly snuffs out the flame with very little smoke, but it can cause some burnt wick residue to fall into the wax pool. The best way to extinguish a jar candle is with a candle snuffer, which has been used for centuries to extinguish flames with minimal smoke. Candle snuffers are safe, quick, and effective, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
How to extinguish a jar candle
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Blowing it out | Creates a sooty mess, may blow wax everywhere, may cause tunneling and unevenness, releases a plume of thick, dark smoke |
| Putting a lid on it | Traps smoke and soot inside the jar, may alter the original scent of the candle, lid might get stuck, may not be safe |
| Using a wick dipper | Instantly snuffs out the flame, produces almost no smoke, recoats the wick with wax, some burnt wick residue might fall into the wax pool |
| Using a candle snuffer | Quick, safe, elegant and sophisticated, produces minimal smoke, prevents debris from falling into the wax pool |
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What You'll Learn
Using a candle snuffer
Candle snuffers are small tools, often made of metal, used to extinguish candles. They are superior to blowing out candles as they prevent wax and soot from splattering and can extend the life of a candle by preventing the wick from smoking. They are also a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any candle display.
To use a candle snuffer, simply hold it over the candle flame until the flame is extinguished. Ensure that you hold the snuffer over the wick for at least one full second to prevent the flame from reigniting. The snuffer works by keeping air away from the flame, causing it to extinguish. Place the bell of the snuffer over the wick without dipping it into the wax. This will ensure that debris does not drop into your wax.
Candle snuffers are a great option for extinguishing jar candles as they prevent hot wax from splattering, which could create a mess inside the jar. They are also safer than using your fingers or tweezers to pinch the wick, which could result in burning yourself.
In addition to their functionality, candle snuffers can also be decorative. They come in a variety of styles and materials, from simple metal designs to more elaborate creations with decorative handles. Antique candle snuffers are beautifully designed and highly collectible. Modern candle snuffers are fashionably designed and inexpensive.
Overall, candle snuffers are an effective and elegant way to extinguish jar candles, ensuring a clean and safe experience while also preserving the quality and longevity of your candle.
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Blowing it out
Blowing out a jar candle is a straightforward way to extinguish it, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to wait until the entire surface of the candle has melted before blowing it out. This is because if you blow it out before the wax has melted evenly, the candle will "remember" where it stopped melting and will continue to tunnel, rendering the wax along the sides unusable.
When you are ready to blow out the candle, position your face a few inches away from the flame, with the wick at mouth level. Do not hover directly over the candle, as the rising heat may burn you. Purse your lips together and blow a thin stream of air until the flame is completely extinguished. Be careful not to blow too forcefully, as this can cause hot wax to splatter, creating a mess or even causing minor burns.
After blowing out the candle, stand clear of the smoke to avoid inhaling it or getting soot on your skin or clothes. Blowing out a candle releases a plume of thick, dark smoke, which can leave an unpleasant smell and residue. Over time, this can also cause a black buildup on the wax or inside the jar.
While some people may prefer to use a candle snuffer or wick dipper to minimise smoke and soot, blowing out a jar candle is a simple and effective method that does not require any additional tools. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential mess and odour caused by the smoke when using this method.
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Putting a lid on it
Putting a lid on a jar candle is a popular method to extinguish the flame. It involves placing a lid on top of the candle jar, which deprives the flame of oxygen, causing it to go out. While this method is effective, there are several potential issues to consider.
Firstly, not all lids are suitable for extinguishing candles. Some lids are purely decorative and may be made of materials like wood, plastic, or have rubber seals that can melt or deform when exposed to heat. Using these types of lids for extinguishing purposes may pose a safety risk.
Secondly, using a lid to extinguish a candle can trap smoke and soot inside the jar. This can leave black residue on the lid and inside the container, making it look dirty, especially if the wax is white-colored. The trapped soot can also settle into the wax, altering the candle's original scent and making it smell smoky.
Additionally, if there is a significant amount of empty space in the jar, the flame may continue to burn for a short time, creating a vacuum seal that suctions the lid tightly to the jar, making it difficult to open again.
Another drawback to consider is that this method may not be as elegant or sophisticated as using a candle snuffer, which has been a preferred method of extinguishing candles for centuries. Candle snuffers are designed to quickly extinguish the flame with minimal smoke, and they come in various shapes and designs, adding to their aesthetic appeal.
While putting a lid on a jar candle is a viable option for extinguishing the flame, it is important to weigh the potential drawbacks against the convenience of using this method.
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Using a wick dipper
A wick dipper is a slender, long-handled metal tool with a hook or curved end. It is used to extinguish a candle's flame by dipping the wick into the molten wax, cutting off its oxygen supply. This method is highly recommended as it does not produce smoke, soot, or wax splatters, which can ruin the scent of the candle and the surrounding area.
To use a wick dipper, start by placing your candle on a flat, stable surface, away from drafts, to ensure an even burn and prevent dripping. Allow the candle to burn until a pool of wax forms around the wick. This prevents tunnelling and maximises fragrance throw.
Next, hold the wick dipper by its handle and position the curved end towards the wick, being careful not to touch the flame. Gently push the wick into the melted wax, fully submerging it. Keep the wick submerged for a few seconds until the flame naturally extinguishes due to the lack of oxygen.
Finally, slowly lift the wick out of the wax and reposition it for the next use. This process also coats the wick with wax, priming it for future burns and ensuring an even burn each time.
Maintaining your wick dipper is straightforward. After use, allow it to cool, then wipe off any wax residue with a soft cloth or paper towel. For deeper cleaning, soak the dipper in warm, soapy water for about 5-10 minutes to loosen and remove any remaining wax. Ensure the wick dipper is completely dry before storing it to prevent rust or damage to the metal.
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Extinguishing with your fingers
Using your fingers to extinguish a jar candle is more of a party trick than a practical solution. It is inherently dangerous, and you risk burning yourself. However, if you wish to try it, there are some important steps to follow to ensure your safety.
Firstly, ensure your candle is at least one inch (2.5 cm) high and freestanding. This will allow you to pull your hand away quickly if needed. Next, wet your fingers. Wetting your fingers will protect your skin from the heat of the flame. You can use your saliva or water from a nearby source, such as a sink or drinking glass.
Now, in one rapid motion, grasp the wick between your two fingers and release it immediately. The moisture should cause the flame to die as soon as you make contact. You may feel a warm sensation, but the heat will dissipate almost instantly. Be careful not to touch the wax, as it can be hot, and always ensure you let go of the wick straight away.
If your fingers do get burnt, apply some aloe to soothe the pain. With practice, you may be able to extinguish the candle without wetting your fingers, but mastering the timing is crucial.
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Frequently asked questions
Using a candle snuffer is the best way to extinguish a jar candle. Candle snuffers are long-stemmed metal rods with a small cone or bell at the end. Place the bell of the snuffer over the wick and lower it until it just touches the wax, cutting off the oxygen and extinguishing the flame. This method produces minimal smoke and soot, and prevents debris from falling into the wax.
A wick dipper is a long metal tool with a flat handle on one end and a thin tip with a bent hook on the other. 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.
Blowing out a jar candle can cause unevenness in the wax and create tunnelling. It can also push wax to the side of the glass container. Blowing out a candle also releases a plume of thick, dark smoke, which can deposit soot on your skin, clothes, and the surrounding area.
