In the past, lighting your favorite candle meant grabbing a book of matches or a disposable lighter. But not anymore.

With rechargeable lighters rising in popularity, going about your self-care routine is becoming more sustainable. You can enjoy your favorite scent wafting through the air, minus the plastic and waste.

What’s Wrong with Disposable Lighters?

Disposable lighters are incredibly popular—they’re found in pretty much every checkout aisle at the grocery store. Unfortunately, they’re really wasteful.

Because they’re not accepted by many recycling centers due to the materials used (a mix of plastic and metal) and their hazardous nature, 350 million lighters wind up in landfills every year.

It’s also not uncommon for lighters that wind up in the environment to be eaten by wildlife. Many have been found in the stomachs of birds and other animals. Luckily, rechargeable lighters are offering a sustainable solution that keeps both the planet and wildlife safe.

Why Opt for Rechargeable Lighters?

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly lighter, rechargeable is the way to go. The Rechargeable Lighter sold in the Brightly Shop, for instance, is powered by a lithium-ion battery. This eliminates the toxic butane (a form of lighter fluid) used in typical lighters.

Instead of using fuel to light your candles, a rechargeable lighter simply requires a little electricity to work—no flame needed. So aside from being a better option for the planet, these lighters are also safer.

How to Use a Rechargeable Lighter

Rechargeable lighters are easy to use, making them perfect for lighting candles, fireplaces, campfires, and more.

To get started, charge up your lighter. Each full charge lasts up to 300 lights. When you’re ready to use it, slide the switch-cover up to expose the RED ignition button, then press the RED ignition button to activate the arc tips.

Hold the lighter an inch away from the candle wick, or whatever you’re lighting. Then, once the tips are activated, slowly move the lighter toward the target to light it. Release the button to stop use, and slide the switch cover back down to cover the ignition button for safety.