Following my blog post a couple of days ago regarding soot
build up on many candle fans walls and ceilings a reader of this blog has
provided me with the (hopeful) answer.
I should state upfront that while we are all Yankee Candle
fans, I don’t think this issue is exclusive to Yankees. Any candle can cause
the same issues with soot.
Thanks so much to the Yankee Candle fan who has provided
this solution :
Use high density cleaning blocks with a small spot of
washing up liquid on the block before use. These blocks are then moistened in
water to activate them. The washing up liquid breaks down the oils in the soot.
DO NOT scrub too hard as due to their intensity they can
erode paintwork.
I am assured by the lady that contacted me that this will
work and if used on a regular basis these cleaning blocks will prevent soot
build up.
You can purchase these special high density blocks from QVC –
they are called IT Works High Density Cleaning Blocks.
Good luck!
To prevent soot build up in your room
Always trim your candle wick to about 1 cm or less before
use.
If on a long burn watch out for any mushrooming of the wick
or black smoke appearing. If this happens, simply extinguish your candle, snip
off the excess wick (being careful not to drop it in the melted wax!) and
relight.
Finally, always use an illuma lid if burning in a small room
or a room without adequate ventilation. The illuma lid as well as giving you an
even burn will steady the flame of your candle, as flickering can also cause
soot to be produced.
Hope this helps – enjoy your Yankee Candles!