Chloe Adams
There are several ways to extinguish a candle flame, but not all methods are created equal. While blowing out a candle may be the most obvious solution, it is not the best way to preserve the quality of your candle's wax and fragrance. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of four different methods for extinguishing a candle, including using a lid, a snuffer, a wick dipper, or simply blowing out the flame. We will also discuss the potential issues associated with each method and provide recommendations for the best way to turn off your candle.
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What You'll Learn
Using a candle snuffer
Candle snuffers are a great way to extinguish a candle without the mess and smoke associated with blowing out a candle. They are also a decorative item, adding a sense of sophistication to your home.
A candle snuffer is a small cone or cylinder at the end of a handle. It is bell-shaped and hovers over the flame, extinguishing it by depriving it of oxygen. This method is superior to blowing out a candle as it prevents wax and soot from being blown around and protects your wick and wax. It is also a more delicate way to extinguish a candle, preserving the quality of the candle, its scent, and preventing issues like tunneling and unevenness in the wax.
To use a candle snuffer, hold it over the lit wick without dipping it into the wax. Hold it there for around two to three seconds, or up to ten seconds, until the flame is extinguished. This simple method avoids the smoke and odour of a smouldering wick and is a fun, ritualistic way to end a candle's burn.
Candle snuffers are an elegant and functional item, perfect for candle enthusiasts or anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication to their home. They are a great way to turn off a candle without the mess and smoke of blowing it out, preserving the quality of your candle and its fragrance.
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Blowing on the flame
If you are going to blow out the flame, it is recommended to wait until the entire surface of the candle has melted. This is because, if you blow it out before then, the candle will only melt to that point in the future, leaving a coating of unusable wax along the inside of the vessel. This is known as tunnelling.
To blow out the candle, position your face close to the flame, with the wick at around mouth level. Purse your lips together and blow a thin stream of air. Keep blowing until the flame is completely extinguished. Be careful not to blow too forcefully, as this can cause hot wax to spray, creating a mess or even causing minor burns.
If you are looking for an alternative to blowing out the candle, you could try using a wick dipper, candle snuffer, or the candle's lid.
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Covering with a lid
While it is technically possible to put out a candle by covering it with a lid, this method is not recommended. The primary issue with using a lid to extinguish a candle is that it traps smoke inside the candle jar. This trapped smoke can infuse with the melted wax, altering the scent of the candle. In addition, the smoke can cause the candle jar to become dirty and discoloured.
Another potential problem with using a lid to extinguish a candle is that it can create a vacuum seal, causing the lid to suction tightly to the jar. This can make it difficult to remove the lid and may even cause the jar to break.
Furthermore, using a lid to extinguish a candle can affect the candle's integrity and scent preservation. It can also result in soot production and unexpected hazards. Instead of using a lid, it is recommended to use a wick dipper or a candle snuffer to extinguish candles. These methods produce minimal smoke and help to preserve the quality of the candle wax and fragrance.
However, if you do not have access to a wick dipper or a candle snuffer, there are some alternative methods for extinguishing a candle without using a lid. One method is to blow out the candle, but this can cause hot wax to splatter and may not fully extinguish the flame. Another option is to use a long metal tool, such as a spoon or an unbent paper clip, to dip the wick into the melted wax, similar to the method used with a wick dipper.
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Using a wick dipper
Wick dippers are slender, metal tools used to extinguish candle flames by dipping the wick into the wax. They are an effective way to put out a candle without producing smoke, unlike blowing out a candle or using a lid, which can cause smoke and wax to be blown into the air.
To use a wick dipper, first, allow your candle to burn until a pool of wax forms around the wick. Position your candle on a flat, stable surface to ensure an even burn and prevent dripping. Then, hold the handle of the wick dipper and angle the curved end towards the wick, gently pressing the wick into the pool of wax until the flame extinguishes. The flame is extinguished as the wick's access to oxygen is cut off.
After extinguishing the flame, straighten the wick so that it is coated in wax, preparing it for the next lighting. This will ensure an even burn the next time the candle is lit. If there is any wax residue on the wick dipper, use a soft cloth or paper towel to gently wipe it away. For stubborn wax, warm water can help loosen it, and you can use a cotton swab for any hard-to-reach areas.
Wick dippers are an excellent tool for candle care, helping to manage how the candle burns by controlling the temperature and burn rate of the wax. They also prevent the wick from ""mushrooming", which can lead to uneven burning and dripping. By coating the wick in wax, wick dippers help to extend the lifespan of the candle and maintain its quality.
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Alternative methods (e.g. battery-operated candles)
If you're looking for alternative methods to extinguish a candle without using a snuffer, there are a few options to consider. One option is to use battery-operated candles, which can be turned off with the flick of a switch or the press of a button. These candles provide the ambiance of a traditional flame without the risk of fire or the hassle of dealing with melted wax. They are also convenient for spaces where open flames may be prohibited.
Another alternative method is to use LED flameless candles. These candles use light-emitting diodes to mimic the warm glow of a real flame without the actual fire. LED flameless candles are often battery-operated, making them easy to turn on and off and suitable for various settings, including events and decorations.
Electric candles are another option that offers the convenience of a flameless candle. These candles typically plug into an electrical outlet or can be powered by batteries. They provide a realistic flickering effect, creating a cozy atmosphere without the need for a real flame. Electric candles are also an excellent choice for spaces where open flames are not permitted.
For a more natural alternative, consider using soy or beeswax candles with essential oils. These candles can be extinguished by simply capping or covering the flame. Soy and beeswax candles offer a cleaner burn compared to traditional paraffin wax candles, and when paired with essential oils, they can provide therapeutic benefits and create a soothing atmosphere.
Finally, there are wick dipper techniques for those who prefer a more advanced approach. This method involves using a long stick or a specialized tool to dip the wick into the melted wax, instantly extinguishing the flame without any smoke. It's important to practice and perfect this technique to avoid accidentally ruining the candle.
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Frequently asked questions
Using a wick dipper or a candle snuffer is the best way to turn off a candle. A wick dipper involves using a long stick to dip the wick inside the melted wax, extinguishing the flame and preventing smoke. A candle snuffer is a long-handled tool with a bell-shaped end that you lower onto the lit flame.
Hold the bell-shaped end of the candle snuffer over the lit candle flame. Once the flame is fully enveloped, hold it there for a moment until the flame goes out. Make sure the snuffer doesn't touch the melted wax.
Yes, you can blow on the flame to extinguish it. Alternatively, if your candle has a lid, you can place it on the jar while the flame is still lit, cutting off the oxygen supply and extinguishing the flame. However, this method can cause smoke and soot.
Using the lid to extinguish a candle can infuse smoke into the wax, possibly altering its scent. It can also cause your candle vessel to become dirty and covered in soot. Additionally, there is a risk of the lid becoming suctioned to the vessel and breaking.
Using a wick dipper or a candle snuffer is the best way to extinguish a candle without causing smoke. These methods instantly put out the flame and preserve the quality of your candle wax and fragrance.
