An elegant, well-crafted candle jar is as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the nose. However, sometimes, when burning your favorite candle from Sweet U Candles, you might notice black stains or a dark ring forming around the rim of the jar. In this article, we’ll explain why this happens, how to clean it, and how to prevent it.
Why Does My Candle Jar Turn Black?
Candle jars sometimes turn black due to soot, a powdery black substance made of tiny carbon particles released from the flame during incomplete combustion. All candles can produce soot, but this often depends on how they are made and how they are burned.
Wax is primarily composed of hydrocarbons—large molecules containing hydrogen and carbon. When combusted, these hydrocarbons react with oxygen to produce heat, light, water (H2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2). If the balance between the melting wax and the burning wax is disrupted, excess wax is released as soot, visible as black smoke that settles on the jar.
Several factors can cause soot production:
1. Type of Wax
Some candles are more prone to turning black than others, primarily due to the type of wax used. Paraffin wax candles are known to produce more black smoke and soot compared to soy wax, beeswax, and vegetable-wax candles. However, it’s a myth that certain waxes like soy are completely soot-free. The amount and appearance of soot can vary based on the type and quality of the wax, as well as any additives and fragrance oils blended into it.
2. Wick Length
The length of the candle wick can also cause the jar to turn black. A longer wick produces a larger, hotter flame, which melts the surrounding wax faster and provides more fuel for the flame. This can result in incomplete combustion and excess soot. Longer wicks are also prone to curling or forming a mushroom cap, creating an uneven flame that produces more soot.
3. Flickering Flame
A flickering flame is a sign of inconsistent combustion, which can lead to soot production. While it’s normal for the flame to flicker initially, it should stabilize into a steady teardrop shape. Persistent flickering, often caused by drafts from windows, doorways, or vents, can increase the likelihood of soot accumulating on the jar.
How to Clean Soot Off Your Candle Jar
To remove black soot from candle jars, use a damp paper towel or cloth. For glass and ceramic jars, follow these steps:
1. Extinguish the flame and wait for the wax to harden.
2. Dampen a paper towel or cloth in water and gently rub the dark spots.
3. For stubborn areas, use a bit of rubbing alcohol or a vinegar solution.
4. Allow the jar to dry completely before relighting the candle.
Be cautious when using rubbing alcohol, as it is highly flammable. A safer alternative is a vinegar solution made with equal parts vinegar and warm water. Vinegar helps break down and loosen soot clinging to the surface. If needed, increase the ratio of vinegar for more cleaning power.
How to Keep Your Candle Jar from Turning Black
To ensure your Sweet U Candles burn beautifully and prevent soot from blackening your jars, follow these tips:
1. Choose High-Quality Candles: Opt for well-made candles. Sweet U Candles uses high-quality soy wax that burns cleaner than cheap paraffin candles.
2. Trim Wicks Regularly: Keep your candle wick trimmed to ¼ inch before each burn to limit sooting and mushrooming. If you don’t have a wick trimmer, nail clippers work just as well.
3. Extinguish Candles Properly: Don’t blow out the flame. This releases soot-containing smoke and leaves a smoldering wick. Use a lid or a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame cleanly.
4. Keep Candles Away from Drafts: Avoid placing your candle jars in drafty areas. Excess airflow can cause the flame to flicker, leading to uneven burning and soot production.
By understanding the causes of soot and following these tips, you can keep your candle jars looking pristine while enjoying the luxurious scents of Sweet U Candles.
