How to Avoid Getting Burned or Cut by Target’s Recalled Candles

Candles are a great way to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere in your home. But what if your candles are not safe? What if they can break and cause serious injuries?

That’s exactly what happened to millions of customers who bought Threshold Glass Jar Candles from Target. The retailer recalled 4.9 million candles in various scents and sizes after receiving 137 reports of the glass jars breaking or cracking while the candles were lit, resulting in six injuries that included deep cuts and severe burns[^1^][1] [^2^][2] [^3^][3].

If you have any of these candles in your home, you should stop using them immediately and return them to Target for a full refund. But how can you avoid getting burned or cut by these recalled candles in the first place? Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

Check the item numbers

The first thing you should do is check the item numbers on the bottom of the glass jars. The recall affects 37 different candles that are either 5.5 ounce 1-Wick, 14 ounce 3-Wick, or 20 ounce 3-Wick. You can find the complete list of recalled item numbers on Target’s online “Product Recalls” page[^4^][4] or on the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website[^5^][5]. If your candle matches any of these numbers, do not use it and return it to Target as soon as possible.

Keep candles away from flammable objects

Even if your candle is not on the recall list, you should still be careful when using it. Always keep candles away from flammable objects such as curtains, bedding, furniture, paper, or clothing. Make sure there is enough space around the candle and that nothing can fall onto it or knock it over.

Use a heat-resistant surface

Another way to prevent injuries from broken glass is to use a heat-resistant surface to place your candle on. Avoid using wooden, plastic, or metal surfaces that can melt, warp, or catch fire. Instead, use a ceramic, glass, or metal tray or coaster that can withstand high temperatures and protect your table or counter from damage.

Trim the wick

A long or crooked wick can cause the candle to burn unevenly and create more heat and smoke. This can increase the risk of the glass jar cracking or breaking. To prevent this, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before each use and make sure it is centered and straight.

Do not burn for too long

Burning a candle for too long can also cause the glass jar to overheat and break. According to Target’s instructions, you should not burn the candle for more than four hours at a time and let it cool completely before relighting it. You should also stop using the candle when there is less than 1/4 inch of wax left in the jar.

Extinguish carefully

When you are done using your candle, make sure you extinguish it carefully and safely. Do not blow out the flame or use water to put it out, as this can cause hot wax or glass to splatter and injure you. Instead, use a candle snuffer or a metal spoon to gently smother the flame.

Store properly

Finally, you should store your candles properly when not in use. Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or moisture that can damage the wax or the glass jar. Store them in a cool, dry place and avoid stacking them on top of each other.

Conclusion

Candles can be a wonderful addition to your home decor and ambiance, but they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. Target’s recall of millions of Threshold Glass Jar Candles is a reminder of the potential hazards of these products. By following these tips, you can avoid getting burned or cut by these recalled candles and enjoy them safely.