Candles have been used for centuries as a source of light and as a ritualistic tool for various cultures around the world. However, as much as we love the ambiance a flickering candle brings into our homes, the aftermath of burnt wicks and wax drippings can be frustrating to deal with. This is where a candle snuffer comes in handy. It is a small handheld tool used to extinguish candle flames without blowing them out, preventing wax from splattering everywhere. But if you’re struggling to use it without creating a mess, fear not! In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps on how to use a snuffer and other candle tools with precision and ease, so you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your candles without any worries.
What is a Candle Snuffer?
It is a tool designed to extinguish candles without creating a mess. It typically consists of a handle and a cone or bell-shaped metal cap. These caps are designed to be placed over the lit candle and suffocate the flame, preventing the hot wax and smoke from escaping surrounding surfaces and they do not cause smoke from the scented candle. Snuffers and wick dippers are also considered more elegant and traditional alternatives to blowing out candles with your breath.
The History of the Candle Snuffer
Candle snuffers have been a fixture in households for centuries, serving as a candle tool for extinguishing candles without creating a mess. The first recorded use of a snuffer dates back to the early 18th century, when they were made from silver or brass and decorated with intricate designs.
During the Victorian era, snuffers became more ornate, with some being adorned with pearls and other precious stones. As candles became more widely available and affordable, snuffers became more commonplace and were often given as gifts.
Despite the invention of electric lighting, snuffers remain popular among those who appreciate the warm glow and relaxing ambiance of candlelight. Today, snuffers and wick dippers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, ranging from simple to ornate, and continue to be an essential tool for candle lovers everywhere.
Why Use a Candle Snuffer?
Candle snuffers have been around for centuries, and for good reason. Not only does a gold plated candle snuffer add an elegant touch to your candle experience, but it also plays an important role in safety. Snuffing out a scented candle with your fingers or blowing it out can easily result in wax spills, hot wax burns, and even accidental fires. A snuffer, on the other hand, allows you to extinguish the flame cleanly and with ease, ensuring your peaceful ambiance stays mess-free. Similarly, you can use a wick dipper to extinguish the lighting wick in melting wax and prevent smoke in the room. A candle connoisseur like you should have all the candle tools including a wick trimmer, snuffer and wick dimmer for a safe candle experience.
How Does a Candle Snuffer Work?
A candle snuffer is designed to extinguish candles by cutting off the oxygen supply, thus killing the flame. It works by being placed over the candle flame, and the cupped end of the snuffer creates a vacuum that draws the flame up into the bell-shaped chamber. By avoiding direct contact with the flame, a snuffer drastically reduces the amount of smoke and soot that is produced, leading to a cleaner and safer experience. If you are using jar candles, a wick dipper can be used to extinguish the flame.
How to Use a Candle Snuffer?
Using a candle snuffer is a simple and elegant way to extinguish candles without blowing them out or making a mess. To use a candle snuffer, hold it over the flame until the candle is extinguished. Be sure to snuff out the entire flame, as any remaining embers can cause the candle to continue burning. Using a snuffer can also help preserve the wick and prevent smoking or residue buildup. A wick trimmer along with a snuffer makes your candle experience mess-free.
Benefits of Using a Candle Snuffer
Safe and Easy to Use:
Using a snuffer is the safest and easiest way to extinguish a candle. It eliminates the need of blowing out the flame which can lead to unwanted accidents like hot wax splatters or even a fire. With a snuffer, the flame is easily extinguished by gently pushing the snuffer cap over the flame. It's a simple and efficient way of putting out candles that won't leave your fingers burnt or cause any damage to the candle.
Minimal Smoke Generation:
Blowing out a candle can generate a lot of smoke which can not only be unpleasant but can also stain your walls and furniture. Blowing can also lower the fragrance caused by scented candles like the coca leaf scented luxury candle. A snuffer, on the other hand, minimizes the amount of smoke generated during the extinguishing process. As the snuffer cap hovers over the flame, it cuts off the oxygen supply, putting out the flame and minimizing the amount of smoke produced. This makes for a much cleaner and pleasant experience.
Minimized Wax Splatters:
Blowing out a candle can be a messy business. The hot wax can splatter all over your surroundings, leaving a difficult-to-remove stain. A candle snuffer, however, minimizes the chances of wax splatters and keeps your space neat and tidy. Instead of violently blowing out the candle and causing wax to fly, the snuffer cap gently presses down on the flame, suffocating it and preventing any wax from flying about.
Prevention of Candle Aesthetics:
When blowing out a candle, the sudden gust of wind created by the puffs of air hitting the flame, can cause the wick to shift or tilt, and sometimes can even fall into the melted wax. This can adversely affect the burning time and the aesthetics of the candle. Using a snuffer meticulously extinguishes the flame, causing no such disturbance, and keeps the wick in place. This ensures that the candle retains its beautiful and delicate composition, just as it was meant to be.
FAQ
Can a candle snuffer be used on all types of candles?
Yes, candle snuffers can be used on all types of candles. Whether you have traditional wax candles, soy candles, or beeswax candles, a snuffer is a valuable tool to have on hand. It helps to extinguish the flame in a controlled and safe manner, preventing any hot wax from splashing and reducing the risk of accidental fires.
Do candle snuffers reduce smoke?
Yes, snuffers help to reduce smoke when extinguishing a flame because they prevent the candle wicks from smoldering after the flame is blown out. When a candle wick is left to continue burning after the wax has been used up or the flame has been extinguished, it can release black soot and smoke into the air, causing potential health hazards and unsightly residue on walls and ceilings. Using a snuffer cuts off the oxygen supply to the wick and smothers the flame, decreasing the amount of smoke that is produced as the candle is put out.
Are candle snuffers good?
Absolutely, candle snuffers are great candle tools to have for anyone who enjoys burning candles at home. They are easy to use, safe, and provide a quick and efficient way to extinguish a candle flame without any mess or hassle. Plus, they help to minimize smoke and soot, making it a healthier and more pleasant environment for you to enjoy your candle. Whether you're a candle lover or just someone looking for a simple way to keep your home cleaner and safer, a gold plated candle snuff is a wise investment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of using a snuffer can add an extra layer of elegance and sophistication to your home decor. Not only does it prevent wax splatter and smoke, but it also prolongs the life of your candle. By following these simple steps - centering the snuffer above the flame, lowering it slowly, and waiting for the ember to extinguish completely - you can achieve a clean and neat finish every time. So why not ditch the traditional method of blowing out your candle and give the candle snuffer a go? With a little bit of practice, you'll be able to handle it like a pro, impressing guests and elevating your ambiance.
