Should You Use the Lid? Best Ways to Put Out a Candle
Have you ever wondered if you should use the lid to put out a lit candle? While it may seem like a simple question, proper candle safety is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure the longevity of your burning candles. Using the wrong methods or not taking care when extinguishing can result in fires, damaged surfaces, and even injury. It’s important to remember that liquid wax can be dangerous, so always use lids to contain it.
We’ll also provide an overview of different types of candles and materials they are made from, as well as the principle behind each method used for putting them out. Whether you’re using candles inside your home or as part of your company’s decor, understanding proper candle safety is essential. If you’re using candles with liquid wax, it’s important to keep an eye on the burning process and never leave them unattended. Always use a container lid to snuff out the flame and make sure to look for any signs of damage or irregularities before lighting them again. So let’s dive in!
Potential Risks of Using a Lid to Put Out a Candle
Risk of creating a vacuum seal
Using a lid to put out a scented candle may seem like the most logical option, but it can create a dangerous situation. When you place the lid on top of the burning candle, it creates a vacuum seal that deprives the flame of oxygen. The lack of oxygen will cause the scented candle to produce more smoke and soot than usual, which can lead to respiratory problems. Moreover, if you leave the lid on for too long, it can cause the container to crack or shatter due to increased pressure.
Possibility of overheating the lid
Another risk associated with using candle lids is overheating. Most candles are made from wax that melts at high temperatures and can burn if not properly contained. If you use an inappropriate container or one that cannot withstand high temperatures, it could melt or catch fire while trying to extinguish the flame. This could happen if you use plastic containers or ones made from materials not intended for high-temperature exposure. Additionally, using a lid may trap moisture and affect the fragrance of the candle, so it’s important to choose a suitable lid for your candle.
Chance of causing a fire hazard
The third risk associated with using lids to put out candles is creating an accidental fire hazard. If you leave your fragrant candle in its container unattended while trying to extinguish it with a lid, there’s always a possibility that something else in your home could catch fire because of this action. This could happen if flammable objects come into contact with hot wax or if someone accidentally knocks over the jar while attempting to remove the lid. It’s important to take care when handling containers and to never burn candles without proper supervision.
It’s important to take care when dealing with candles to prevent burn accidents. Always remember to never leave them unattended when lit and ensure the container lid is closed properly to contain the fragrance.
So what should you do instead?
There are safer alternatives available for extinguishing candles instead of using their lids. It is important to take care when handling containers that burn and emit fragrance.
- Use a snuffer: A snuffer is designed specifically for putting out fragranced candles safely without damaging the containers or lids.
- Blow out: You can also blow out your scented candles by gently blowing on them until all flames go off. Make sure to use lids to keep the fragrance intact and take care when handling them.
- Use water: Another option is to pour water over the scented candle in its container to put it out. Remember to take care of the fragrance while doing so.
Problems with Blowing Out a Candle
Risk of splattering hot wax
Blowing out a candle in a container with a lid can be dangerous, especially if you are not careful. One of the biggest risks is the possibility of splattering hot wax and damaging the container. When you blow out a scented candle, the melted wax can spray in all directions, potentially causing burns or damage to surrounding objects. It is important to use lids to prevent the fragrance from escaping and to avoid any accidents.
To avoid the risk of spilling wax on your fragrance container or lids, it’s important to take your time when blowing out a candle. Make sure that you are standing far enough away from the flame so that you don’t get burned by any flying wax. You may also want to consider using a snuffer instead of blowing out the candle directly.
Possibility of re-lighting the wick accidentally
Another problem with blowing out a candle is that if you don’t put the lid or container on, there is always the chance that you might accidentally re-light the wick. This can happen if there is still some heat left in the wick after you blow it out.
If you do accidentally re-light the wick, it can be difficult to put it out again without getting burned. To avoid this risk, it’s best to use a snuffer or wait until the candle has cooled down completely before attempting to relight it. Additionally, make sure to always cover the candle with its lid or place it back in its container after use to prevent accidental fires.
Chance of spreading smoke and soot
Finally, placing a lid or container over a candle can prevent problems with smoke and soot. When you cover a candle, it traps the smoke and tiny particles of soot inside the container, keeping them from spreading throughout your home when you extinguish the flame.
This can be especially problematic if you have allergies or respiratory issues since inhaling these particles can aggravate your symptoms. To avoid this risk, try using an extinguisher or snuffer instead of blowing out your candles directly. Additionally, placing a lid or container over the candle can also help prevent the release of particles into the air.
The Best Ways to Extinguish a Candle Safely
Snuffing out the Flame Using Tools or Fingers
One of the most important things to consider is how to extinguish a candle safely. While blowing out a candle may seem like the easiest way to put it out, it can actually be dangerous. Blowing on a candle can cause hot wax and embers to fly everywhere, potentially causing burns or starting a fire. Using a lid to cover the candle is a safer alternative.
Instead of blowing on your candles, try snuffing them out using tools, your fingers, or a lid. One popular tool for this purpose is a candle snuffer, which is designed specifically for putting out candles. To use a snuffer, simply place the cup over the flame and hold it there until the flame goes out.
If you don’t have a snuffer or lid handy, you can also use your fingers to pinch out the flame. This method works best with small candles that are easy to reach. To do this safely, wet your fingertips first and then gently press them onto the wick until the flame goes out.
Dipping the Wick into Melted Wax
Another safe way to extinguish candles is by dipping their wicks into melted wax and covering them with a lid. This method works well for larger candles where it might be difficult to reach the wick with your fingers or a snuffer.
To dip your wick into melted wax with the lid on, light your candle as usual and let it burn until there’s about an inch of melted wax around the edge of the jar or holder. Then use tweezers or another tool to carefully bend down the wick so that it dips into the pool of wax at the center of your candle, making sure not to touch the lid. Leave it there for several seconds until all flames are gone before lifting up again.
Using Water or Baking Soda for Emergency Situations
In emergency situations where you need to put out a candle quickly but don’t have access to a snuffer or wax, you can use water or baking soda to extinguish the flame. Alternatively, placing a lid over the candle can also be effective.
To use water, simply pour it over the candle until the flame goes out. Be careful not to splash hot wax everywhere when doing this, as it can cause burns and damage surfaces. After extinguishing the flame, cover the candle with its lid to prevent dust and debris from settling on the wax.
Baking soda is also an effective way to put out candles in an emergency. Simply sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the flame until it’s completely covered. The baking soda will smother the fire and put it out quickly.
Snuffers: A Better Alternative to Lids and Blowing Out Flames
Definition and Types of Snuffers
Snuffers are handy tools for extinguishing flames in candles, incense, and other scented containers. They come in different types, including flat handle snuffers, bent hook snuffers, wrought iron snuffers, and stainless steel rod snuffers.
Flat handle snuffers have a flat base that allows you to smother the flame by pressing it against the wick. Bent hook snuffers have a hooked end that enables you to reach into jars or containers with narrow openings. Wrought iron snuffers are durable and can be used on larger candles. Stainless steel rod snuffers have a long thin rod that helps you reach deep into tall candles.
Benefits over Other Extinguishing Methods
Using a lid to put out a candle or incense may seem like an easy job but can lead to more problems than solutions. When you cover the jar with a lid, the oxygen inside gets depleted quickly and creates smoke when it tries to escape. This smoke can leave dust particles on surfaces around it and cause respiratory problems for people nearby.
Blowing out flames may not be the best solution for your scented candle as it could spread wax or ash around your home or even create fire hazards if not done correctly. Proper candle care, such as trimming the candle wick and using a jar candle, can help prevent these issues.
On the other hand, using a snuffer is more efficient as it smothers the flame without creating smoke or spreading wax/ash around your home. It also helps preserve the scent of your candle by preventing excessive oxygen from reaching its surface.
How to Use Snuffers Properly
Using a snuffer is easy; follow these simple steps:
- Hold the handle of your chosen type of snuffer.
- Place the candle jar over the candle flames so that it covers all parts of the wick and melts the candle wax properly for good candle care.
- Wait until there is no more glow from underneath the candle wick before removing. Remember to always practice proper candle care by using candle lids and keeping an eye on candle flames.
- Gently tap off any excess ash or wax from your candle wick into a bin to practice good candle care. Remember to use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame and always keep your candle containers clean.
Cool Candle Snuffers and Wick Dippers Worth Considering
Unique Designs and Features Available in the Market
Candle snuffers and wick dippers are essential tools for any candle lover. Not only do they help extinguish candles safely, but they also maintain the quality of scented candles by preventing wicks from getting damaged. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Here are some unique designs and features worth considering:
- Wick trimmer/snuffer combination: This tool is a two-in-one product that trims candle wicks to the ideal length before extinguishing them with its snuffer cap.
- Long-handled snuffers: These snuffers have an extended handle that allows you to reach deep into a jar or container candle without burning your fingers.
- Decorative snuffers: Some snuffers come with decorative handles that add a touch of elegance to your candle display.
- Wick dippers with wax pool remover: These wick dippers not only help you straighten out crooked wicks but also remove excess wax from the pool around the wick.
Materials Used in Making Snuffers and Wick Dippers
The materials used in making candle snuffers and wick dippers can vary greatly, affecting their durability, weight, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some common materials used:
- Metal: Metal snuffers and wick dippers are durable and long-lasting. They come in various finishes such as brass, copper, stainless steel, or silver.
- Wood: Wooden snuffers give a natural look to your candle collection. They are lightweight but may not be as durable as metal ones.
- Glass: Glass snuffers can be delicate but add an elegant touch to any candle display.
Price Range for Different Products
The price range for candle snuffers and wick dippers varies depending on their design, material, and brand. Here are some options to consider:
- Budget-friendly: You can find simple metal snuffers or wick dippers for as low as $5.
- Mid-range: For a more decorative option, mid-range snuffers and wick dippers made of wood or glass can cost between $10 to $30.
- High-end: Luxury brands offer high-end snuffers and wick dippers made of precious metals such as silver or gold that can cost upwards of $100.
Using the lid may seem like an easy solution. However, it can cause wax residue on the lid and damage the wick. A candle snuffer or wick dipper is a safer and more effective way to put out your candle. With so many unique designs and features available in the market, you’re sure to find one that fits your style and budget. So why not add a cool candle snuffer or wick dipper to your collection today?
Other Methods for Putting Out Your Candle Flame
Covering the Jar with a Non-Flammable Object
Using a lid to put out a candle flame is not always recommended, especially if you are using a jar candle. The lid can trap heat and cause the glass to shatter or crack, which could be dangerous. So, what other ways can you put out your candle flame? One way is by covering the jar with a non-flammable object.
You can use a coaster, plate, or snuffer cap to cover the jar and extinguish the flame. Make sure that the object you are using is made of non-flammable material like metal or ceramic. This method works well for jar candles since it does not trap heat inside and reduces the risk of breaking the glass.
Using Sand or Salt to Smother Flames
Another way to put out your candle flame is by smothering it with sand or salt. This method works best if you have an open-flame candle, such as pillar candles and taper candles. When using this method, make sure that you have enough sand or salt to cover the entire surface of the wax pool.
To use this method, pour enough sand or salt onto the wax pool until it covers all of the liquid wax. The sand or salt will cut off oxygen supply from reaching the wick and eventually extinguish the flame.
Cutting off Oxygen Supply by Closing Doors/Windows
If you do not have any non-flammable objects nearby or sand/salt on hand, another way to put out your candle flame is by cutting off its oxygen supply. You can do this by closing doors/windows in your room until there’s no more air circulation present.
This method might take longer than others since it relies on suffocating flames without any external assistance but still an effective one when none available around you.
Choosing the Best Method for Extinguishing Your Candles
In conclusion, extinguishing a candle is an essential safety practice that should not be taken lightly. While using a lid to put out a candle can be effective, it poses potential risks such as trapping heat and causing glass jars to shatter. Blowing out a candle may also lead to problems like splattering hot wax or accidentally igniting nearby objects.
To safely extinguish your candles, snuffers are an excellent alternative that can prevent accidents and prolong the life of your candles. Cool candle snuffers and wick dippers are worth considering as they offer convenience and style.
Remember to always prioritize safety first. Avoid using water or blowing out the flame with your breath. Instead, use one of the recommended methods mentioned above.
FAQs
Q: Can I use my fingers to put out a candle?
A: No, never attempt to put out a candle with your fingers as this can cause burns.
Q: Why is it important to properly extinguish candles?
A: Properly extinguishing candles prevents accidents such as fires, burns, or damage to surrounding objects.
Q: How long should I wait before leaving a room after putting out my candles?
A: It is recommended that you wait at least 30 minutes after putting out your candles before leaving the room to ensure that there are no remaining embers.
Q: What should I do if my candle flame is too high?
A: If your candle flame is too high, immediately blow it out and trim the wick before relighting it.
Q: Is it safe to leave my burning candles unattended?
A: No, never leave burning candles unattended as this increases the risk of fire hazards.
