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Make the most of your candles - Candle Burning Tips

Candles are a great way to add fragrance to your home and give the feeling of homeliness, relaxation and romance.

Below are some tips to get the most from your candles and make the pleasure of burning your favourite candle last longer.

1. Keep in mind the safety issues first. Burn candles on a candle mat, in a votive holder or on a saucer. Hot wax dripping onto a wood surface can cause lasting damage. Keep lit candles out of the reach of children and pets and don't leave your candles burning while unattended. Keep your candle away from curtains and other flammable objects.

2. Trim the wick. Keep the wick trimmed to approx ½ cm. If your wick is too long your candle may burn more quickly and produce black smoke.

3. Extinguish the flame - sooner rather than later. If you do use candles in your bedroom blow them out before you get too sleepy. Candles in bedrooms cause numerous fires every year. Use a candle snuffer to "snuff" the flame or hold your finger in front of the flame (not too close) and gently blow. By doing this you lessen the chance of having hot wax over you or your furniture.

4. Keep your candles away from drafty places, windows that are open and air blowing from heating and cooling systems. Why? Your candle will burn unevenly, more quickly and may produce black smoke.

5. Place your candles in the fridge. Cold candles burn more slowly and drip less. Wrap them in foil or cling wrap to prevent the wick becoming moist.