Caring for a Hemp Wax Candle: Safety Tips and Best Practices

Hemp wax candles are a relatively new addition to the candle market, and they offer a unique set of benefits. Hemp wax is a natural and sustainable alternative to soy wax, and it burns longer and cleaner than many other types of wax. However, to ensure that you get the most out of your hemp wax candle while staying safe, it’s important to follow a few key guidelines. In this post, we’ll explore how to care for your hemp wax candle and provide some safety tips to remember. We’ll also compare and contrast the care of a hemp wax candle with that of a soy wax candle.

1. Always keep an eye on your candle.

As with soy wax candles, never leave your hemp wax candle unattended while it’s burning. Keep your candle within your line of sight and away from any flammable materials, such as curtains or furniture.

2. Trim the wick before each use.

Just like soy wax candles, before lighting your hemp wax candle, trim the wick to 1/4 inch in length. This will help ensure a clean and even burn, as well as prevent the wick from becoming too long and causing the flame to grow too large.

3. Let the wax melt evenly.

When you first light your hemp wax candle, allow it to burn until the wax melts evenly across the entire surface of the candle. This will help prevent tunneling, which can occur if the wax doesn’t melt evenly and leaves a rim of wax around the edge of the jar. Tunneling can reduce the overall burn time of your candle and waste wax.

4. Extinguish the candle safely.

When it’s time to extinguish your hemp wax candle, use a candle snuffer or gently blow out the flame. Avoid blowing the candle out forcefully, as this can cause hot wax to splatter and potentially cause a fire. Never use water to extinguish a candle, as this can cause the wax to splatter and damage your furniture.

5. Store your candle properly.

To preserve the scent and quality of your hemp wax candle, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you store your candle in a warm location, such as near a window or heater, the wax may soften or melt, reducing its overall lifespan.

6. Soy Wax vs. Hemp Wax.

When it comes to caring for a hemp wax candle versus a soy wax candle, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Hemp wax candles tend to have a firmer texture than soy wax candles, which means they can take longer to melt evenly. Be patient when lighting your hemp wax candle, and give it time to melt across the surface fully. Additionally, hemp wax candles can have a slightly different scent profile than soy wax candles, so if you purchase a lavender-scented soy candle, it may smell slightly different from a lavender-scented candle made with hemp wax.  You may need to experiment with other fragrances to find one that suits your preferences.

In summary, hemp wax candles are a unique and eco-friendly option for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home or workspace. By following proper safety protocols and best practices, such as always keeping an eye on your candle, trimming the wick before each use, letting the wax melt evenly, extinguishing the candle safely, and storing it properly, you can enjoy the benefits of your hemp wax candle while staying safe.