Jessie Taylor
Candles can add a cosy and romantic atmosphere to any outdoor space, but they can be tricky to keep lit. The key to keeping a candle lit outside is to protect it from the wind and other elements. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your candle stays lit and you get the most out of your outdoor candle experience.
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What You'll Learn
Use wind protectors, like hurricane candle shades or lanterns
Using wind protectors, such as hurricane candle shades or lanterns, is an effective way to keep candles lit outdoors. These protectors act as a barrier between the candle flame and the wind, reducing the impact of breezes and gusts.
Hurricane candle shades are hollow glass tubes that come in various diameters and heights to fit over a candle snugly. They are designed to be pushed slightly into the ground for added stability. If you don't have a glass cutter, you can use a plastic bottle instead. Cut the top off a large (2-litre or more) plastic bottle or jug and fill the bottom third to half with sand or gravel for weight. Cut a square hole in the side, leaving the cap off for airflow, and partially bury it in the ground if needed.
Glass hurricane candle holders are another option for wind protection. Fill the bottom with rocks or gravel for stability, ensuring the flame is below the top edge for safety.
Chic lanterns or sturdy enclosed holders can also serve as wind protectors, providing a steady flame and containing sparks. These options enhance the ambiance of outdoor spaces while also offering functionality and safety.
In addition to wind protectors, it is essential to follow general candle safety practices. Always place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces to prevent tipping. Keep candles away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended. Ensure that the wick is trimmed to a length of about 1/4 inch to prevent the flame from becoming too large.
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Choose candles with a high melting point, like beeswax
When choosing candles for outdoor use, it is important to consider the type of wax used, as this can significantly impact the candle's performance. Opting for candles with a high melting point, such as beeswax candles, can help ensure a steady and strong flame that can withstand outdoor conditions.
Beeswax is a natural wax with a high melting point, which makes it ideal for outdoor use. Its unique properties allow it to burn more slowly and evenly, resulting in a longer-lasting and more consistent flame. Additionally, beeswax candles often emit a delightful natural honey scent, enhancing the ambiance of your outdoor space.
Compared to other types of wax, beeswax is less susceptible to the effects of wind and breeze. Its high melting point means that it takes longer for the wax to melt and pool, reducing the risk of the flame being extinguished by a sudden gust of wind. This makes beeswax candles a reliable choice for outdoor lighting, especially in slightly windy conditions.
When using beeswax candles outdoors, it is still important to take certain precautions. While the high melting point of beeswax helps resist wind, adding a physical barrier, such as a lantern or a sturdy enclosed holder, can further protect the flame from being blown out. Additionally, always ensure that your candles are placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface to prevent any accidents.
By choosing candles with a high melting point, such as beeswax, and following some simple safety guidelines, you can create a cozy and well-lit outdoor atmosphere while reducing the risk of your candles being extinguished by wind or other external factors.
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Place candles on a stable surface, away from flammable materials
When burning candles outdoors, it is essential to place them on a stable surface to prevent them from tipping over and causing a fire. Choose a sturdy, heat-resistant surface, such as a table, and avoid placing candles on wobbly or uneven surfaces.
Use appropriate candle holders or dishes to provide additional stability and catch any wax drips or spills. Opt for holders with a hefty base, especially in breezy conditions, to prevent the candle from toppling over. If you're using jar candles, ensure they are placed on a stable surface to prevent tipping. Votive candles should be placed in holders to prevent wax from spilling, while pillar candles are typically burned on a plate to catch any melting wax.
Position candles away from flammable materials, such as foliage, table décor, curtains, or bedding. Keep them out of reach of children and pets, and always ensure they are attended by an adult. Additionally, keep the area around the candles free of debris, such as paper or fabric, to prevent the flame from spreading.
To protect your candles from the wind, you can use wind protectors, shields, or hurricane candle shades. These glass tubes fit over the candle to shield it from the wind and can be pushed into the ground for stability. Alternatively, you can use sturdy enclosed holders or lanterns to shelter the flame and reduce the risk of accidents.
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Keep candles out of reach of children and pets
Candles can enhance the atmosphere and create a calming environment, but it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks they pose, especially to children and pets. Here are some tips to keep candles out of the reach of children and pets:
Placement
Place candles in areas that are inaccessible to children and pets. High shelves or wall-mounted candle holders can help prevent accidental knocks and spills. Avoid placing candles on tables or other surfaces that children or pets can easily access.
Enclosed Lanterns
Use enclosed lanterns or candleholders specifically designed for candle use. They should be heat-resistant, sturdy, and large enough to contain any drips or melted wax. Enclosed lanterns can also help protect the flame from being blown out by wind or drafts.
Flameless Alternatives
Consider using flameless LED candles, which mimic the look and feel of real candles without the fire risk. These battery-operated candles are safe for any environment and are ideal for homes with young children and pets.
Supervision and Extinguishing
Never leave a lit candle unattended. Make sure to extinguish all candles before leaving the room or going to bed. If you have active children or free-roaming pets, limit candle use to when they are not around. Ensure that the area where you burn candles is well-ventilated to disperse any potential fumes and reduce the concentration of allergens or toxins.
Storage
When not in use, store candles in a cool, dry, and dark place with the lid on to keep them clean and protect the wax and fragrance. Keep candles out of reach, especially if they have scented or fragrant wax, as these can be toxic to pets.
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Trim the wick to 1/4 inch to prevent the flame from becoming too large
When burning candles outdoors, it is important to keep the wick trimmed to 1/4 inch to prevent the flame from becoming too large. This is because the candle stays lit not by burning the wick but by drawing the wax through the wick. If the wick is too long, it will be harder for the wax to flow to the top of the wick, making it difficult to keep the candle lit.
To ensure your candle stays lit, it is also important to place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials and out of reach of children and pets. You should also keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. If there is a slight breeze, you can periodically rotate the candle to encourage an even burn.
To protect your candle from the wind, you can use a wind protector or shield, such as a lantern or sturdy enclosed holder, to guard the flame. Alternatively, you can use a hurricane candle shade, which is a hollow glass tube that fits over the candle to keep the wind from blowing it out. If you don't have a hurricane candle shade, you can cut a plastic bottle with scissors and use that instead.
In addition to trimming the wick, it is important to keep the area around the candle free of debris, such as paper or fabric, to prevent the flame from spreading.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of wax can influence the performance of your candle outdoors. For example, beeswax candles have a high melting point and a strong, steady flame that can withstand the wind. If you're lighting up pathways or areas around pools, paraffin wax is a good option as it burns bright and fast. However, it can be smoky if the wick isn't trimmed properly. Soy wax is a sustainable option, and citronella candles are great for keeping bugs away.
Always place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface to prevent them from tipping over. Use candle holders with a hefty base, especially in breezy conditions. Keep candles away from flammable materials, and make sure they're out of reach of children and pets. Ensure the area is well-ventilated, and keep an eye on the flame to prevent it from becoming too large.
You can use wind protectors or shields, such as hurricane candle shades or lanterns, to protect the flame from the wind. These can be made of glass or cut from plastic bottles. Fill the bottom with rocks or sand for stability, and ensure the flame is below the top of the protector to avoid the wind. Alternatively, periodically rotate the candle if the breeze is causing it to drip and lose wax.
