What is soot?Updated 7 months ago

Soot is a natural by-product of incomplete combustion and is comprised primarily of carbon particles. Soot can be caused by fireplaces, stoves, furnaces or even from cooking. If candle wicks are kept trimmed and there is proper ventilation with no drafts, there should be no incomplete combustion and, therefore, no sooting from candles.

In any house, there are literally millions of airborne particles that can adhere to surfaces. These particles include a wide variety of naturally-occurring substances such as dirt, dust and pollen. If windows are open, particles may come from car or truck exhaust, barbecues and burning leaves. Due to natural airflow, these particles tend to adhere to ceilings, walls and window treatments. Because of static electricity, they also tend to collect on or near electrical appliances, TV or computer screens.