Blowing out birthday cake candles is one of those acts people perform mindlessly for the momentary thrill. However, in the aftermath of the Covid-19 outbreak, humans are forced to think of the repercussions of our basic actions, including this age-old birthday tradition.
TikTok user Krystal Rochelle made a video analyzing the germs celebrants leave on their cakes when blowing out birthday candles. Herein lies the dilemma – how do we keep tradition and maintain a healthy practice?
Amidst her turmoil, Rochelle developed a hack that’s making its rounds on the social platform.
You Have To Forgo Aesthetics
Rochelle’s hack is innovative and practical, but it involves a plastic film that will mess up your birthday cake’s beauty. If you’re bothered about aesthetics, this is the time to bow out. However, if you’re more concerned about your guests’ health, here’s what to do.
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Not all store-bought cakes come with plastic containers, but if you do get one, leave your cake inside, then stick your candles on the plastic cover. This way, stray spittle and germs in your breath won’t latch onto the cake’s surface and contaminate the entire dessert.
How To Place Your Candle On The Plastic Cover
Typically, sticking birthday candles on cakes is easy because it only requires pressing them into the cake’s soft surface.
However, it’s not the same as the hygienic alternative. Apart from poking holes in the plastic cover being counteractive (loose germs would pass through the space in the holes), it’s not convenient.
Instead, tilt the lit candle towards the plastic surface so the fire on the wick can melt some of the wax onto it. Then, press the candle’s bottom onto the melted wax until it’s standing alone. Close your eyes, make a wish and blow out your candles.
TikTok Users Share Other Hacks
Rochelle wasn’t the only person worried about spreading germs in the pandemic, as she discovered through her comments. Other TikTokers have shared their extreme hacks, many of which throw aesthetics into the bin and prioritize their health.
One user said they used a hand fan to blow the candle flames, another used a hair dryer (not-advised because of flammability,) and a third person used one of the party plates to fan the tiny flames out.
Also, remember that making a wish on one candle is as powerful as using multiple candles.
Don’t Light Up The Entire Cake
The best hack came from a user who suggested that celebrants should have two cakes – a big one for the guests and a mini-sized cake for themselves. That way, you can blow out your candle traditionally without fear of infecting someone else with germs from your saliva.
A low-budget alternative is cutting a slice for yourself and lighting a single candle on it. That way, you can perform the same acts without wasting resources.
Instead of cake slices, cupcakes are also another good option. You can make as many as your current age and light a candle on the piece meant for the celebrant. That way, thanks to the paper cups, guests get a cupcake without contact.