Brooke Martin
Candles can be a great way to set the mood, but they can be tricky to manage outdoors. The wind is the biggest challenge when burning candles outside, as it can blow them out or cause wax to drip, reducing burn time. To prevent this, you can use sturdy, weighted candle holders, glass hurricanes, or metal lanterns to protect the flame from the wind. Another option is to use candles specifically designed for outdoor use, such as citronella candles, which also serve as natural bug repellents. If you're using standard candles, try burning them on a dish or plate to catch any wax drips and always keep them away from flammable materials. For safety, never leave burning candles unattended and keep them out of the reach of children and pets.
How to prevent candles from blowing out outside:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle type | Opt for candles with natural essential oils to keep bugs away, such as citronella candles. |
| Candleholder | Use sturdy, weighted candle holders that can withstand outdoor breezes without falling over, such as glass hurricanes or metal lanterns. |
| Wind protection | Use wind protectors/shields to mitigate the wind hazard. |
| Candle placement | Place candles away from flammable materials and position them on a dish or plate to protect surfaces from wax drips and heat damage. |
| Candle maintenance | Rotate the candle periodically to encourage an even burn and prevent wax dripping. Extinguish the candle if it starts to drip. |
| Candle extinguishing | Avoid blowing out candles as it can create an uneven wax surface and alter the fragrance. Use a candle snuffer, lid, or wick dipper instead. |
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What You'll Learn
Use wind protectors/shields
Wind protectors or shields are an effective way to prevent candles from blowing out outside. These protectors are designed to mitigate the impact of wind, ensuring that the candle flame remains stable even in breezy conditions.
One option for a wind protector is a glass hurricane candle holder. This elegant choice not only shields the candle from wind but also allows for adequate ventilation. When using a glass hurricane, ensure you leave at least 2 inches of space around the candle. Additionally, you can fill the bottom of the holder with rocks or sand for added stability and to anchor the candle securely.
Metal lanterns are another sturdy option for protecting candles from the wind. They provide a stylish barrier against the elements while allowing the candlelight to shine through. Like glass hurricanes, metal lanterns should be used with candles that have sufficient space to burn and should be placed on a stable surface.
If you're looking for a more natural option, consider using incense sticks or creating a triangle-shaped arrangement with multiple wicks pointing towards each other. This setup, known as a "candle triangle," helps the candles stay lit by providing mutual protection from the wind. However, this method may require some patience as the candles need time to burn sufficiently before they can withstand stronger gusts.
When selecting candles for outdoor use, opt for those specifically designed for outdoor conditions, such as citronella candles. These candles often contain natural essential oils that repel insects, enhancing your outdoor experience without the use of harsh chemicals.
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Opt for sturdy, weighted candle holders
When burning candles outdoors, it is important to consider the wind and the safety hazards it can cause. One way to prevent candles from blowing out outside is to opt for sturdy, weighted candle holders. These holders can withstand outdoor breezes and won't be in danger of falling over. Glass hurricanes, metal lanterns, and artisan-style votive candle holders are excellent choices as they provide protection from the wind while maintaining elegance. When using glass hurricanes, ensure there is at least 2" of space left around the candle. Additionally, fill the bottom with rocks or sand to weigh them down and secure any tablecloths so that edges don't blow onto the table.
If you're looking for candles that are well-suited for outdoor use, consider those made with natural essential oils, such as citronella candles, which can help keep bugs away without harsh chemicals. Alternatively, glassware candles can also be burned outdoors with proper care. For example, Big Dipper Wax Works offers a Garden Party Collection made from pure beeswax and essential oils, providing a clean burn with a light, pleasant fragrance.
When burning candles outdoors, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Always burn candles on a dish or plate to catch any wax drips and protect surfaces from heat damage. Keep lit candles away from children, pets, and flammable materials such as foliage or table decor. Additionally, be cautious when moving lit candles, and ensure that your hands and body are protected from heat and spills. Remember that glassware and candleholders can become hot to the touch, and molten wax can easily splash and drip.
While sturdy, weighted candle holders can help prevent candles from blowing out outside, you may also consider other methods for added protection. For example, you can periodically rotate the candle to encourage an even burn if it's flickering in one direction due to a slight breeze. If the candle has started to drip, consider extinguishing it to prevent excessive wax loss and prolong burn time. By combining sturdy candle holders with proper candle care and safety precautions, you can enhance your outdoor candle-burning experience and reduce the risk of accidents.
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Rotate the candle periodically
If you're burning candles outdoors, you may find that even a slight breeze can cause the flame to flicker and blow in one direction. This can result in an uneven burn, causing the candle to drip and lose wax. To prevent this, you can periodically rotate the candle.
Rotating the candle will help to ensure an even burn and maximise burn time. If you notice the candle flickering and blowing in one direction, simply turn the candle so that the flickering flame faces the wind. This will allow the wind to correct the uneven burn and create a more stable flame.
If you're dealing with a stronger wind, you may need to take additional measures to protect your candle flame. Consider using a sturdy, weighted candle holder that can withstand breezes and won't be at risk of falling over. Glass hurricanes, metal lanterns, and artisan-style votive candle holders are all excellent choices that provide protection from the wind while maintaining elegance. When using a glass hurricane, ensure you leave at least 2 inches of space around the candle.
Additionally, be mindful of the duration of your outdoor event. If you anticipate your event will be shorter than the minimum recommended burn time for your candle, consider lighting the candle before your event begins to get it going. This way, you can maximise the burn time during your event and minimise the risk of the candle blowing out.
By periodically rotating your candle and taking the necessary precautions, you can help prevent your candle from blowing out in outdoor settings.
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Burn candles on a dish or plate
Burning candles on a dish or plate is a great way to protect surfaces from wax drips and heat damage. It is recommended to use a dish or plate made from heat-resistant materials, such as glass or metal, to ensure safety and prevent accidents. These materials can withstand warm temperatures without melting or catching fire.
When choosing a dish or plate to burn your candle on, avoid using plastic, fabric, or tin materials. Plastic melts easily when exposed to heat, while fabric and tin are not heat-resistant and can pose a fire hazard. It is also important to ensure that the surface is stable and free from flammable materials. Burning candles near flammable items such as paper, cloth, or wooden cabinets can be dangerous.
To enhance the safety of burning candles on a dish or plate, opt for sturdy and weighted candle holders that can withstand outdoor conditions. Glass hurricanes or metal lanterns are excellent choices as they provide protection from wind while maintaining elegance. When using a dish or plate, leave at least 2 inches of space around the candle to allow for proper airflow and prevent the creation of drafts.
Additionally, always follow safety precautions when burning candles. Keep them out of the reach of children and pets, and never leave them unattended. Ensure that the candle is placed in a well-ventilated room, with at least 3 feet of space between the flame and the surface above it. Regularly inspect smoke and fire detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.
By following these guidelines and burning candles on a dish or plate, you can create a safe and enjoyable ambiance, especially when enjoying the outdoors.
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Choose candles designed for outdoors
When it comes to choosing candles designed for outdoor use, there are several factors and features to consider. Firstly, opt for candles that are sturdy and heavily weighted, as these are less likely to be affected by outdoor breezes and will not topple over easily. Look for candles housed in glass containers or metal lanterns, as these provide protection from the wind while still allowing the candle to burn effectively. Ensure that the glass or metal casing leaves adequate space around the candle, with a recommended distance of at least 2 inches of clearance.
Another important consideration is the type of wax used in outdoor candles. Some varieties, such as citronella candles, are specifically designed for outdoor use. These candles are often made with natural essential oils that help repel insects, enhancing your outdoor experience without the use of harsh chemicals. Beeswax candles, while typically designed for indoor use, can also be burned outdoors if placed in appropriate glassware or lanterns.
When selecting outdoor candles, pay attention to the burn time and size of the wick. For extended outdoor gatherings, choose candles with longer burn times to avoid the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, ensure the wicks are appropriately sized for the candles. Longer wicks, such as those found in votive or pillar candles, are better suited for outdoor conditions as they provide a more stable flame.
To enhance the ambiance and functionality of your outdoor candles, consider pairing them with decorative and protective accessories. Artisan-style votive candle holders or glass hurricanes filled with rocks or sand can provide stability and elegance to your setup. Additionally, opt for candles with natural scents that complement your outdoor environment, such as those with light floral fragrances.
By choosing sturdy, weighted candles with appropriate wax types, burn times, and wick sizes, and by utilising protective accessories, you can create a safe and enjoyable outdoor candle experience. Remember to always follow basic candle safety guidelines, such as keeping them away from flammable materials and never leaving them unattended.
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Frequently asked questions
Use sturdy, weighted candle holders that can withstand breezes and won't fall over. Glass hurricanes or metal lanterns are good choices. Ensure there is a 2-inch gap between the candle and the glass. Alternatively, use a wind protector or shield, or burn candles in glass vessels.
Yes, candles with natural essential oils, such as citronella, are good for outdoors as they keep bugs away. Candles with glassware are also good for burning outdoors.
If there is a slight breeze, rotate the candle periodically to encourage an even burn. If there is a strong wind, consider extinguishing the candle.
Using a candle snuffer or a wick dipper is the best way to extinguish a candle outdoors. This minimises smoke and prevents debris from falling into the wax.
