Burn incense on a stable, heat-proof holder in a ventilated room, away from anything that can catch fire, and never leave it unattended. Incense smoke contains fine particles, so use it in moderation.
Fire safety
- Use a holder made of ceramic, stone, metal or glass that catches all the ash.
- Place it on a level surface, away from curtains, paper, plants and shelves above.
- Keep it out of drafts, which can blow embers and tip sticks.
- Put it out before you leave the room or go to sleep.
- Let ash cool completely before you throw it away.
How to put incense out
| Type | How |
|---|---|
| Stick | Press the glowing tip into sand or ash, or dip the tip in water |
| Cone | Drop it into a dish of water |
| Charcoal | Cover with sand and leave it for hours; charcoal stays hot long after it looks gray |
| Bundle or wood | Press firmly into sand until no smoke rises |
Air quality
Burning incense releases smoke particles, as any burning does. To keep exposure low:
- Open a window while it burns and air the room afterwards.
- Burn one stick, not several, and try half sticks.
- Choose low-smoke types, see Low-smoke incense for small apartments.
- Do not burn incense every hour of the day.
Children, pets and sensitive people
- Keep incense and matches out of reach of children.
- Birds are very sensitive to smoke, and cats and dogs can be too. Burn incense in a room they can leave, and stop if an animal coughs, sneezes or hides.
- Skip incense around babies, people with asthma or other lung conditions, and anyone who finds scent unpleasant.
If smoke gives you headaches, coughing or irritated eyes, stop and use a smoke-free alternative.
Storing incense
Keep it dry, in its box or a closed tin, away from heat and sun. Damp incense burns badly.
The right holder
See Incense holders and burners: types and what to look for.
Can I leave incense burning when I go out?
No. Put it out first.
Is incense safe during pregnancy?
We cannot give medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife, and ventilate well if you do burn it.