A Hundred and One Uses for Salt: Salt Hack #50

Salt Hack of the day:

Why it works: 

Salt has a very high melting point and can slow the melting of a candle. It can help with irregular melting, soot, and uneven melting or burning (source). Some recommend a salt bath, which creates a tougher outside around the candle and contains the melting (source).

Why it matters: 

It's important to remember that people used candles to see at night well into the 20th century for their portability and reliability as a light source. Today, salt is still used to lengthen candle burns for aesthetics or occasions; back in the 1920s, though, those without electricity couldn't illuminate the room at night with the flick of a switch! Instead, they used candles to see in the dark -- lengthening the candle's lifespan could mean the difference between stubbing your toe in the dark and an easy trip to the restroom or to check on a child. 

Have you tried "salting" a candle before? Let us know in the comments!

Stay tuned for more salt hacks!