Many of us enjoy burning incense at home. The pleasant aromas can help create a relaxing atmosphere, support meditation practices, or simply make our living spaces smell nice. However, burning incense indoors does come with some safety considerations. Here's what you need to know to enjoy incense safely.
Choose the Right Location
Where you place your burning incense matters. Choose a heat-resistant holder specifically designed for incense, and place it on a stable surface that won't easily tip over. Keep the incense at least a foot away from anything that could catch fire, like curtains, papers, or furniture.
I once made the mistake of placing incense too close to my bookshelf, and the rising heat caused damage to the bottom of the shelf. Learn from my experience - give your incense plenty of space.
Use the Nomadic Incense Stick by Fernweh.
Stay in the Room
One simple rule can prevent many accidents: never leave burning incense unattended. If you need to leave the room, take a moment to extinguish the incense properly. You can always relight it when you return.
Keep the Air Flowing
Good ventilation is essential when burning incense indoors. Open a window or door to allow fresh air to circulate through the room. This not only reduces smoke buildup but also helps distribute the fragrance more evenly.
If you notice the room getting smoky or if anyone experiences coughing, watery eyes, or difficulty breathing, it's time to put the incense and air out of the space.
Know When to Avoid Incense
Some situations call for skipping incense altogether:
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When someone in your home has asthma or respiratory sensitivities
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In homes with infants or young children
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If you have certain pets, especially birds, which have sensitive respiratory systems
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In very small, poorly ventilated spaces
On days when incense isn't the right choice, consider flameless alternatives like essential oil diffusers or room sprays.
Choose Quality Products
Not all incense is created equal. Lower-quality incense may contain synthetic chemicals that produce more irritating smoke. Natural, plant-based incense tends to burn cleaner and cause fewer respiratory issues. While these may cost more, the improved experience is often worth it.
Check out our range of home fragrances.
Put It Out Properly
When you're done enjoying your incense, don't just let it burn out on its own. Instead:
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Gently press the burning tip into the sand in your incense holder until fully extinguished
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Make sure no embers remain before walking away
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Allow the holder to cool completely before handling or storing it
Practice Moderation
Even with high-quality incense and good ventilation, it's best not to burn incense for extended periods. A session of 20-30 minutes provides plenty of fragrance without overwhelming your indoor air quality. Taking breaks between burning sessions gives your space-time to clear out any lingering smoke.
Try out the Moonlit Incense Stick by Fernweh.
Summing it Up!
Burning incense can be a wonderful addition to your home routine when done safely. By following these straightforward precautions, you can enjoy the pleasant aromas and atmospheric benefits while keeping yourself and your home protected.
What's your favorite way to use incense safely in your home? Drop a comment below with your experiences or questions!
Also, Check:
- The Art of Perfume Preservation: Storage and Aging Techniques
- Perfume Tips & Hacks by Fernweh
- Perfume Making Techniques: The Art of Creating Fragrance
- What is 'Dry Down' in Perfumery Terms?
- Understanding Fixatives in Perfumery
- Are Cruelty-Free and Vegan Perfumes the Same?
