Candles soften a room, mark a moment and carry a scent that can transport you entirely, to a Devon moor after rain, a stable yard in autumn or somewhere that feels like home. But a candle is also an open flame, and deserves a little respect.
These are Miss Rio's candle safety essentials: simple, practical and worth knowing.
Never leave a burning candle unattended
If you leave the room, extinguish the flame. This matters especially in homes with children, pets or draughts that can cause an unexpected flare.
Burn on a stable, heat-resistant surface
Place your candle on a level surface that can handle heat, away from curtains, paper, furniture edges and anything else that could catch fire. Keep the candle clear of shelves or surfaces that could warp or crack with sustained warmth.
Miss Rio's candles are designed for considered table-top burning. A dedicated candle tray is a sensible addition, particularly on a polished or delicate surface.
Keep the wax pool clear
Remove packaging, matches and wick trimmings from around the candle before lighting it. Debris in the melt pool can interfere with an even burn and may reignite. Never add fragrance oils, dried flowers or other decorations to a burning candle.
Keep candles away from draughts
Windows, fans and air vents can make a flame flicker, create uneven melting and increase soot. If the flame is dancing rather than burning steadily, extinguish the candle and move it to a calmer position once it has cooled.
Keep candles out of reach
Children and pets are naturally curious. Place burning candles where they cannot be knocked, pawed or pulled down, and never leave them within reach of a horse, dog or cat.
Extinguish carefully
Use a candle snuffer where possible, or extinguish the flame carefully without moving the candle. Never move a candle while the wax is liquid. Once the flame is out, allow the vessel to cool completely before handling it.
Stop burning before the base
Leave approximately 1cm of wax at the base of the vessel. Burning beyond this point can overheat the container and the surface beneath it. Retire the candle, clean the vessel and let it begin its second life.
For a fragrance inspired by Dartmoor and the warmth of home, discover the Dartmoor Hearth Candle or browse all of our luxury candles. You can also read our Candle Care & Safety page. Burn beautifully, and always burn responsibly.