8 Steps to Remove Candle Soot from Walls

Burning candles can create a cozy ambiance and fill your space with delightful scents, but they also come with potential risks. One common issue is the buildup of soot on walls and surfaces, especially if candles are left burning unattended. Addressing soot quickly and effectively is essential to prevent further damage. Recognizing the signs of soot buildup early can help you mitigate future problems before they escalate.

In this article, we’ll explore why candle soot sticks to walls, how to prevent it, effective methods for removing candle soot from walls, and whether black soot from candles poses any danger. We’ll also discuss when it’s necessary to call a professional for smoke and soot removal.

Why Does Candle Soot Stick to Walls?

Candle soot accumulates on walls due to the incomplete combustion of carbon in the candle wax when it doesn’t fully react with the oxygen in the air. This often occurs for several reasons, including low-quality candles, burning candles in poorly ventilated or drafty spaces, or using a candle with an untrimmed wick. Below, we’ll explore each of these factors in more detail:

• Poor quality candle: Candles with excessive additives, such as an overload of fragrances, can disrupt their natural combustion process. Additionally, the inclusion of fragrance oils often increases the likelihood of producing more soot during burning.

• Lack of ventilation or drafty area: As a candle burns down to its base, it often begins to produce soot. This occurs because less oxygen is available as the flame nears the bottom, causing the flame to shrink. A smaller flame disrupts the flow of liquid wax up the wick, leading to the release of unburned carbon particles into the air, which appear as soot. Additionally, burning candles in drafty areas—such as near air vents, open windows, or fans—can draw excess oil into the wick. This results in incomplete combustion, further contributing to soot production.

• Untrimmed wick: For a clean, soot-free burn, ensure the candle wick is trimmed to a quarter-inch before lighting. If you notice any soot while the candle is burning, trim the wick slightly further until the flame burns cleanly.

How to Prevent Candle Soot on Walls

When burning candles, there are things you can do to help prevent the buildup of soot on the walls. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Trim the candle wick: The best way to lower the amount of soot is to trim your candle wicks. Before you light your candle, make sure the wick is trimmed at least ¼ inch.  When the wick is longer, there is a larger flame which produces more soot. When you regularly trim the wick, you will have a cleaner burn and less soot.

• Use high-quality candles: Make sure to buy high-quality candles that have clean-burning wax which includes soy, beeswax, and coconut. These candles produce less soot compared to those made from paraffin wax. You should also only use candles that have cotton or paper wicks instead of metal cores.

• Burn candles in areas with no draft: An air current or draft can cause candles to flicker and burn unevenly, creating more soot. Always put candles far away from the windows, fans, and air vents. When a candle burns steadily, then it creates less soot.

• Do not burn candles too long: When you burn candles for a long time, you can end up with soot buildup. Make sure you do not burn candles for more than four hours at a time. Once the candle is extinguished, it should fully cool before you relight it.

• Always use candle holders and trays: It is important to use candle holders and trays to contain the soot. Always choose holders that snugly fit the candle so you can lower the amount of wick that is exposed. Candle trays can catch any falling soot particles to keep your surface clean.

• Ventilate the room: You should ensure that you have proper ventilation in any rooms where you use candles. Good ventilation will allow soot particles to disperse. You can also open a window or use an exhaust fan to push fresh air in while you burn candles.

• Always clean the candles before you use them: When there is dust and soot on the surface of your candles, you can end up with more soot production. Before you light a candle, make sure to wipe it clean with a soft cloth so all dirt and dust can be removed. This will allow for a cleaner burn.

• Choose a flameless alternative: If you would like a soot-free alternative, you can buy flameless candles. There are battery-operated electric candles that will give you a warm ambiance without the smoke and soot. This will help you maintain a clean home environment.
• Use air purifiers: Make sure to use air purifiers in your home so you can have a clean environment for you and your family. This is especially true if you burn candles regularly.

How to Remove Soot from Candles on Walls

If you do notice a buildup of candle soot, it is important to clean it from your walls right away. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you effectively remove candle soot from your walls:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the items you need such as a dry-cleaning sponge, soft cloth, mild detergent, warm water, baking soda, white vinegar, a spray bottle, and a vacuum with a brush attachment.

Step 2: Test a Small Area

Test a small area on the wall to make sure you do not damage your paint or wallpaper before you treat a large area.

Step 3: Vacuum the Area

Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to get rid of any loose particles from your wall. This will help avoid smearing the soot once you begin cleaning.

Step 4: Use a Dry-Cleaning Sponge

To remove the soot without using water, opt for a dry-cleaning sponge. Gently sweep the sponge over the soot-stained area, avoiding excessive pressure to prevent damage to the wall surface. When the sponge becomes too dirty, replace it to avoid spreading soot to clean areas.

Step 5: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

After using a dry-cleaning sponge, if any soot remains, prepare a mild cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a gentle detergent. Use it to carefully clean the affected area.

Step 6: Clean the Wall

Use a soft cloth dipped in soapy water, making sure to wring out the excess. Starting at the top, gently wipe the surface, working your way downward. Rinse the cloth regularly to ensure you’re not reapplying dirt once the water becomes murky.

Step 7: Use Baking Soda for Stains

For stubborn stains, create a paste made from baking soda and water. Then rub the paste on the stained area in a circular motion. Next, let it sit just a few minutes before you wipe it off with a clean, wet cloth.

Step 8: Rinse and Dry

After thoroughly removing the soot, rinse the area and wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth. Finish by drying the wall with a soft towel to prevent any potential water damage.

Step 9: Use Vinegar for Persistent Odors

If you have lingering odors from the soot, take a spray bottle filled with white vinegar and water, mist the area that is affected, and then let it dry. Vinegar will help remove the odor.

Step 10: Repaint if Necessary

If necessary, repaint the cleaned area to help prevent future soot buildup.

Is Black Soot from Candles Dangerous?

Black soot from candles can pose health risks. Composed of fine particles, soot can be harmful when inhaled. To minimize exposure, it’s important to choose candles made from natural waxes, regularly trim the wicks, ensure proper ventilation while burning, and avoid burning candles for long periods. Taking these precautions can help create a safer and more enjoyable candle experience.

When to Call a Professional for Smoke and Soot Removal

Smoke damage in your home or business needs prompt attention to prevent further harm to your belongings. Here are some reasons why you may consider calling a professional smoke removal company:

• Extreme smoke damage: Soot that is visible, stained walls and smoke odors likely require professional removal.
• If toxic materials are present: Smoke usually contains harmful substances such as gases and chemicals that may be toxic.
• Complicated restoration needs: Smoke can negatively affect surfaces like walls and ceilings and even hidden areas such as ductwork, insulation, and HVAC systems. This type of damage should be addressed by professionals.

Professional Smoke and Soot Removal Services

By taking the right precautions, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of candles while minimizing soot buildup and potential health risks. Regularly trimming wicks, using high-quality candles, and maintaining proper ventilation can significantly reduce soot accumulation on walls and surfaces. If soot buildup does occur, prompt cleaning with the right techniques can help restore your walls and maintain a clean living environment. For severe smoke or soot damage, seeking professional assistance ensures a thorough and safe restoration.

Restoration professionals provide expert smoke and soot damage cleaning to remove soot and smoke residue caused by burning candles, cooking, or fires. These technicians have the proper equipment and cleaning products to effectively remove soot and restore the damaged materials. They also use advanced deodorization methods to remove lingering smoke odors.