Q&A for How to Safely Burn Candles

They can be. Rub a piece of white paper against the wick before you light it for the first time. If the wick leaves a light grey mark like a pencil, it has a lead core. No mark, however, and the candle is lead-free. Most other wicks are made of paper or cotton and are completely safe. To avoid health risks from wax and additives, use unscented candles made of bees wax or soy.

Many votives are sold in a glass or plastic container. If you're buying votives that do not come this way, simply find a small glass container that is large enough for the candle. Place the glass container in the center of the bowl and pour in the glass beads around it. Hint: You can find glass containers of different sizes for votives in the wedding aisle of most craft shops.

It depends on the quality of lantern and if it was designed for only decorative purposes. It should specify on the lantern packaging.

Read the manufacturer's instructions, as these will clarify the burning time for the specific candle. However, in general you'll probably find most manufacturers recommend that the candle not be burned for longer than four hours at a time. After burning, wait another two hours before relighting the candle.