Many people are unsure of how to use their oil lamp for the first time. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide on how to assemble, light, extinguish, and care for your lamp. Here you can find our selection of classic-style oil lamps.
How to Assemble an Oil Lamp
Ensure the glass chimney is inside the brass prongs to prevent the glass from cracking. You can adjust the burner by gently pressing the prongs against the glass. The glass should stay in place without vibrating when you move the lamp, but it should still be easy to lift the glass without force.
How to Light an Oil Lamp
1. Remove the glass and unscrew the burner, unless your burner has a filling hole.
2. Fill the lamp with oil until the container is about ¾ full, never to the top. We recommend using 100% paraffin oil.
3. Screw the burner back on and wait until the wick absorbs the fuel. When the wick is fully saturated, it’s the oil that burns, not the wick, which extends the wick's lifespan. Ensure the wick is not too long and has an even edge.
4. Light the lamp with a match or lighter. Immediately turn down the flame using the wick knob on the side of the lamp before replacing the glass. The wick should barely be visible above the burner cone. A flame that's too large may produce soot and could potentially crack the glass.
5. Place the lamp on a flat surface and remember that it gets hot above the lamp. Never leave it unattended or near pets or children.
How to Extinguish an Oil Lamp
When you want to extinguish the lamp, simply turn down the flame until it goes out, or blow out the flame from above or through the burner’s air intake below. Be careful, as the glass will be hot!
How to Care for an Oil Lamp
Make sure there’s always oil in the lamp so the wick doesn’t dry out. Use the lamp regularly to avoid leaving it unused for long periods.
Trim the Wick
To preserve the wick, you may need to trim it. The easiest way to do this is by cutting it straight across after it has cooled, so the edge is even.
Replacing the Wick in an Oil Lamp
If the wick has dried out and needs replacing, pull it out from underneath. Do not use the wick knob at this stage. Insert the new wick from underneath and adjust it into place using the wick knob. If the glass has become sooty, you can wash it in the dishwasher or by hand.