Candle Safety 101: Burn Bright, Burn Safe

Candles can bring a warm, calming glow to any space—but it’s important to remember that you’re working with an open flame. Understanding home candle fire safety is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment. Whether you’re lighting a candle for ambiance, ritual, or reflection, following basic safety tips keeps the experience both magical and safe.

1. Never leave a burning candle unattended.

This is the golden rule when it comes to unattended candles. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep.

2. Trim the wick.

Before you burn a candle, trim your wick to about 1/4 inch. This helps prevent high flames and excess soot. This should be done for both cloth and wooden wicks.

3. Keep it clear.

Make sure your candle is on a heat-resistant surface, away from anything that can burn—curtains, papers, plants, or fabrics.

4. Burn in 3–4 hour intervals.

This helps your candle burn evenly and reduces the risk of overheating the container.

5. Mind the wax pool.

Keep the candle wax pool free of debris like matches or wick trimmings, which can act as secondary wicks and cause flare-ups.

6. Use a snuffer.

Blowing out a candle can splatter hot wax. A candle snuffer is a safer (and more elegant) way to extinguish the flame.

Safe Candle Use in Different House Areas

When incorporating lit candles into various areas of your home, especially with home decorations, safety should always be a top priority. In living rooms, it's important to place candles on stable surfaces away from flammable materials like curtains and furniture. Opt for candle holders that are deep enough to catch drips and prevent spills. In the kitchen, avoid lighting candles near cooking surfaces or within reach of pets and children. For bedrooms, consider using battery-operated candles for a safer ambiance, especially in spaces shared with children. Additionally, in bathrooms, keep candles away from mirrors and towels to reduce fire risks. By being mindful of where you use lit candles and adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy their warm glow while minimizing potential hazards.

Candle Safety with Pets and Children

When it comes to candle safety, ensuring the well-being of pets and children is paramount. Both can be naturally curious, often drawn to flickering flames, appealing scents, or the warmth they emit. To mitigate risks, always place candles out of reach of children, such as on high shelves or in secured holders that are difficult for little hands or paws to access. Opt for flameless candles as a safer alternative, especially in homes with young children or lively pets, as they provide the ambiance without the associated dangers of an open flame. Additionally, it’s essential to regularly check the area around candles for any items that could inadvertently catch fire, and never leave a burning candle unattended, even for a moment. For those using traditional candles, remember to carefully trim the tip of the wick to enhance safety. By being proactive and mindful of your surroundings, you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere that candles create while keeping your loved ones safe.

At In Mourning, we craft our Mourning Light candles with intention, and we hope you use them with the same care. Burn safely, and let the flame guide you through the dark.