Frequently Asked Questions
Is paraffin wax unsafe and bad for the environment?
It is a common myth that Beeswax Candles and Soy Candles are cleaner burning and better for the environment than candles made from paraffin wax; this is simply not true. No specific type of wax or wax blend is considered "best" for candle making. All candle waxes (when provided in high-quality format) have been shown to burn cleanly and safely.
My candle is very smoky. Does this mean it’s not a good quality candle?
No, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration when you have a candle that is not burning clean. First of all is your wick too long? Make sure you always keep your wick trimmed to approximately ¼”. If your flame is too high than your wick is probably too long. A wick that is not trimmed properly will cause small amounts of unburned carbon particles (soot) to escape from the flame as a visible wisp of smoke. You also want to be sure that there is not a draft interfering with the oxygen levels needed for the candle to burn properly. Any candle will soot if the flame is disturbed. If your flame is flickering you may need to move your candle to a different location while it burns.
My candle is not burning evenly. What am I doing wrong?
Always be sure that the wick is straight up. If it is leaning to one side the candle is not going to burn evenly - which will eventually cause your candle to drip as well as leave a lot of unused, wasted wax.
How long should I let my candle burn?
Maximum burn times vary from candle to candle; check with the manufacturer. For our pillar candles, you should burn them until the top is liquified about 1/4" away from the outer edge (approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on the diameter). This will create a thin outer shell to not only keep your candle from dripping, but will also create a beautiful luminous glow next time you burn it. If you let the candle burn too long the candle may drip. If you extinguish the candle too soon you may end up with a candle that only burns down the center.
Where can I find soot-free, smokeless candles?
There is no such thing as a soot-free wax. All organic compounds - when burned - will emit some carbon (soot) due to incomplete combustion. Sooting is primarily a factor of wick length and disturbance of the flame's steady teardrop shape.
Are certain candle waxes better than others?
No - all types of candle waxes perform well, and will burn cleanly and safely when they are of high quality. U.S. candle manufacturers select waxes or blends of waxes based on their suitability for specific types of candles or formulation profiles, as well as their own candle-making preferences.
Is candle soot harmful?
No. The minuscule amount of soot produced by a candle is the natural byproduct of incomplete combustion. Candle soot is composed primarily of elemental carbon particles, and is similar to the soot given off by kitchen toasters and cooking oils. These everyday household sources of soot are not considered a health concern, and are chemically different from the soot formed by the burning of diesel fuel, coal, gasoline, etc.
Why don't candle manufacturers add a lot more fragrance?
There is a maximum amount of fragrance that can be added to a candle before it no longer burns cleanly or properly. There have been reports of some candles not produced in the U.S. containing too much fragrance, or fragrances not approved for use in candles. This can cause a candle to burn improperly or unsafely.
Is my candle biodegradable?
Probably. Studies have shown that beeswax, paraffin and vegetable-based waxes are biodegradable. The vast majority of candles today are made primarily from these waxes.
Are scented candles that use essential oils safer?
No. A natural ingredient is not necessarily any safer than a manufactured or synthesized ingredient, and some essential oils are extremely toxic to humans, even in very small amounts. Reliable candle manufacturers are committed to using fragrances that are safe and approved for use in candles, whether "natural" or synthesized.
What should I know about using candles safely?
Candles are safe when burned properly, responsibly and according to manufacturer directions. When burning candles, consumers should follow these basic safety rules:
- Keep lit candles within your sight. Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire.
- Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
- Trim wicks to ¼ inch prior to each use
- Keep candles away from drafts and vents.
- Always use an appropriate candleholder placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Don't burn a candle all the way down. Extinguish the flame if it comes too close to the holder or container. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 2 inches of wax remains or ½ inch if in a container.
- Keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.