Preventing Soot Stains from Candles
If you’ve noticed ghostly smudges and stains on your walls and ceilings, candles burned indoors may be the cause. Here’s how candle soot creates stains and how to minimize the problem:
Understanding Candle Soot Stains
- Cause: Most candles produce soot, which can stain walls and ceilings. Even a few candles in a new home can leave noticeable deposits.
- Soot Suspension: The soot is easily suspended in the air.
- Deposit Locations:
- Air Direction Changes: Soot deposits as a gray stain where air changes direction, such as on horizontal surfaces, at picture frames, or under doors.
- Air Slows Due to Cooling: Soot also deposits where the air slows due to cooling, like at framing (where there is less insulation) and on exterior walls and ceilings.
- Result: Ghostly stains outlining framing and fasteners on walls and ceilings.
Factors Contributing to Soot Production
- Candles in Glass Jugs: These are the biggest soot generators because the jug limits airflow to the flame, inhibiting combustion and causing extra soot.
- Candle Composition: The composition of some candles, especially ingredients responsible for their sweet aroma, may also contribute to increased soot production.
Minimizing Soot Production
- Buy Higher-Quality Candles: Opt for higher-quality candles.
- Trim Wicks: Keep wicks trimmed to about ¼ inch.
- Benefits: This allows for a better-controlled flame and minimal soot production.
Summary: Soot Stains from Candles and How to Avoid
Candle soot can create unsightly stains on walls and ceilings. To minimize soot, avoid candles in glass jugs, buy higher-quality candles, and keep wicks trimmed. These practices will help maintain a cleaner indoor environment while still enjoying the ambiance of candles.