Presentation illustration: IPANEMA candle by KMK PARIS.
To use a scented candle properly, start with its instructions, choose a stable, heat-appropriate location and stay present throughout burning. Carry out maintenance only when the candle is extinguished and cool. Burning times, wick length and the stopping point must be those specified by the manufacturer, not those of another candle.
The KMK PARIS collection includes IPANEMA, centred on leather, sandalwood and amber, AGADIR, centred on rum, leather and amber, and PALM BEACH, centred on orange, monoï and vanilla. Consult their product pages and the instructions supplied with the product for current information.
Before first use: read and check
Keep the label and instructions. Identify the placement, maintenance and maximum burn-time directions, as well as the end-of-use indication. If essential information is missing, ask the manufacturer before lighting.
Also check the visible condition of the container. Do not use the candle if there is a crack, chip or other damage. A presentation visual or the stated wax weight does not establish a burn time or the wick’s characteristics.
Choose a location before lighting
Place the candle on a stable, clear, heat-resistant surface according to its instructions. Keep flammable materials away, including curtains, paper and textiles. The NFPA recommends at least 30 cm between a candle and anything that can burn; keep a greater distance if required by the instructions.
Avoid passing areas where it could be knocked over and direct draughts. Keep it out of reach of children and animals. The best location is also one where you can truly supervise it without moving it afterwards.
Wick care: follow the specified measurement
If the instructions call for trimming the wick, do so before lighting, when the candle is completely cold, with a suitable tool. Use the length recommended for this particular candle. Do not automatically apply the millimetres specified for another model.
Do not leave wick trimmings, matches or objects in the wax. Do not add dried flowers, essential oils, perfume or decoration to the surface. A candle is not designed to receive additional ingredients.
While burning: your presence remains essential
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish it before leaving the room or going to sleep, even if the maximum time stated in the instructions has not been reached. That time is a limit, not an obligation to keep the flame burning.
Keep hair and clothing away while lighting. Do not handle the hot container or move the candle while the wax is liquid. Do not spray any scented spray nearby.
If the flame or burning seems unusual, stop using it according to the extinguishing instructions. Let it cool and ask the manufacturer for advice before relighting. Do not try to adjust the wick or repair the product while it is burning.
Extinguish, then let it cool
Use the extinguishing method specified in the instructions. A suitable candle snuffer can extinguish the flame; do not use water. The National Candle Association notes that water can cause hot wax to splash.
Check that the flame is out, then wait until the candle has cooled completely before touching, moving or maintaining it. Do not place a decorative lid on a burning candle unless the manufacturer explicitly intends it for extinguishing.
Avoid tricks that change the product’s intended use
An uneven wax surface does not justify burning beyond the stated limits. Do not use an oven, microwave, hairdryer or aluminium-foil arrangement to try to correct the candle.
Do not remove hot wax, replace the wick or transfer the contents to another container. For a defect or concern, keep the product reference and contact the seller rather than improvising a repair.
When should you stop using it permanently?
Respect the end-of-use threshold specified by the manufacturer and do not try to consume all the wax down to the bottom. If this threshold is not documented, ask for clarification rather than inventing a measurement for your model.
Once cool, store the product according to its instructions, out of reach of children and animals. Maintain your usual ventilation and air the room after use.
To choose your ritual, consult room spray or scented candle and the home fragrance gift guide.