5 Candle myths you can finally let go of
Candles enrich our daily lives for centuries, with the warm glow that fills our home and hearts. But along the way, a few myths have crept in like shadows in the flame. It’s time to clear the air (literally) and set the record straight. Here are five common misconceptions about candles and the truth that burns brighter.
1. Candle soot is harmful and leaves black marks
Ever heard someone say candle soot is harmful or will turn your walls into a smoky mess? Yes, candles can produce a tiny bit of soot, but here’s the truth: it’s a natural byproduct of combustion, just like the faint puff from your toaster when it’s working overtime.
With high-quality candles, soot emissions are minimal and well-controlled. Proper wick trimming and placement also help keep your surfaces clean and your air clear. On all our Spaas candles, we put icons indicating how to burn the candle. Always read carefully the symbols put on the labels/packaging to enjoy your candle to the fullest and to burn them safely.
2. Paraffin wax is toxic
This one’s been floating around for years, but paraffin wax and plant based waxes (like rapeseed) are both carbon-based and burn cleanly when properly formulated. Whether you choose paraffin or plant based wax, what matters most is the quality of the candle, not the origin of the wax.
3. Scented candles are unsafe
A well-made scented candle is just as safe as its unscented counterpart. When burned correctly, both types release minimal emissions.
However it is possible that you are sensitive to certain ingredients in perfumes. Then it’s very important to carefully read the labels on the packaging. They clearly indicate which ingredients can trigger allergies for example. Are you sensitive to a particular ingredient? Then choose another fragrance, without it.
So go ahead, light that lavender, vanilla or cinnamon blend and let the fragrance do its magic.
4. You can’t do any harm by blowing out a candle
If you blow out your candle, it’s possible that the flame releases particles that can damage the surrounding surface or cause a fire. Besides never decide to extinguish a candle with liquid. Pouring water on a burning candle can cause wax to splatter and may even crack the glass container due to sudden temperature changes. Always extinguish your candle with a snuffer, your table (and fingers) will thank you.
5. You should burn a candle until there’s no wax left
For safety reasons, you should stop burning a candle in glass when there’s 1 cm of wax left in the holder. For pillar candles, leave 2 cm of wax. The exception? Tealights and our rustic candles, which feature a self-extinguishing wick that safely stops the flame when it reaches the wick plate. Smart, right?
Enjoy your flame with confidence
Candles are meant to bring warmth, atmosphere, and a sense of calm. Not confusion. By choosing high-quality candles and following our safety tips, you can enjoy every flame with confidence.
So go ahead; enjoy the warm glow, bust the myths and discover what a flame can do.