What Are Wick Dippers? —Their Purpose and Functionality
You can make any room cozier and more inviting by simply adding a candle. It is the incredible fragrances they release when lit that transport us to better times. When it comes to enjoying your scented candles, having the appropriate candle-burning accessories is crucial for getting the most out of your candle-lighting experience. One accessory that stands out as an essential is a wick dipper.
Today, we take you through a comprehensive look at wick dippers, answering questions such as what they are, how to use them, what they are made of, how to clean them, and whether or not a knife can be used in their place. Let’s get right into it!
Table of Contents
What Does a Wick Dipper Do?
A wick dipper is a tool used to extinguish the flame of a burning candle by dipping the wick into a pool of melted wax. This device enables a controlled and smoke-free extinguishing process that eliminates the need to extinguish the flame with your breath.
When using your wick dipper, you can ensure that the wick is completely submerged in the wax by gently pushing it into the wax with the dipper's curved end, preventing any excess smoke or soot from being released into the air.
How to Properly Use a Wick Dipper
Using a wick dipper is a straightforward process anyone can do once you have done it at least one time. When you're ready to put out your candle, grab the dipper by the handle and carefully lower the curved end into the melted wax pool. Gently press the wick into the wax until it is completely submerged. This will put the flame out without releasing a lot of excess smoke into the air.
Benefits of Using a Wick Dipper
Using a wick dipper provides several benefits that improve your overall candle-burning experience. For starters, it reduces soot and smoke. By submerging the wick into the melted wax, you are preventing it from smoldering and emitting excess smoke into the air.
A wick dipper also aids in the prevention of wick mushrooming. Wick mushrooming occurs when a carbon buildup forms at the tip of the wick, resulting in a larger and less controlled flame. You can eliminate mushrooming and maintain a clean and consistent burn by dipping the wick into the wax.
Another reason for owning a wick dipper is that they are known to increase lifespan of your candle. By extinguishing the flame without damaging the wick, you avoid unnecessary wear and tear, allowing your candle to burn evenly and for a longer period of time.
Step-By-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Wick Dipper
After using your wick dipper, you should be cleaning it in order to maintain its pristine condition. Here is a break down of the steps you need to take when cleaning your candle accessory:
Step 1: Remove Residue Wax
Carefully eliminate any lingering wax residue on the dipper's surface. You can achieve this by gently swiping it with a paper towel or a soft cloth.
Step 2: Gently Clean Your Wick Dipper
Submerge the wick dipper in a mixture of warm water and mild soap, such as dish detergent. Allow it to soak for 5-10 mins before moving onto the rinsing process.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly
After cleansing, ensure the wick dipper is entirely dry before its next use. A clandestine air-drying technique or a covert towel pat-down should suffice.
By following these three simple steps, you can ensure that your wick dipper remains clean and ready to use whenever you need it!
What Are Wick Dippers Made Of?
The materials in which wick dippers are made depend on the specific brand and manufacturer. However, commonly, wick dippers are made of stainless steel, brass, or other non-reactive metals. This is because these materials provide durability and ease of cleaning. Additionally, since they are made of metal, you can be confident that they are safe and suitable to use around a hot flame.
Can I Use a Knife as a Wick Dipper Instead?
A common question that many candle enthusiasts have is if they can use a knife in replacement for a wick dipper. The answer is that, while it might be tempting to use a knife as a substitute for a wick dipper, it is not recommended.
Knives are not designed for the specific purpose of extinguishing candles. The sharp edge of a knife can potentially damage the wick or the candle itself, leading to an uneven burn or even breakage. To ensure a safe and effective extinguishing method, it is best to invest in a dedicated wick dipper designed for this purpose.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that a wick dipper is an essential accessory for any candle user. By properly utilizing a wick dipper, you can enjoy a smoke-free candle extinguishing process. Plus, with the use of a wick dipper, you will also be prolonging the life of your candles.
Are you looking for a durable and quality wick dipper to add to your candle routine? Check out SMELLS' selection of stainless-steel wick dippers, designed with style, reliability, and function in mind. Plus, don’t forget to browse our scented candle selection as well! You can’t use a wick dipper without a wick to dip!
FAQ Section
What is a wick dipper used for?
A wick dipper is a tool used to extinguish candles by gently bending and dipping the burning wick into the melted wax, which prevents smoke and maintains a clean, even burn for your next use.
How do I clean a wick dipper?
After extinguishing the candle, remove excess wax with a cloth or paper towel. Next, clean it with warm, soapy water, and ensure it is thoroughly dry before use.
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