If you push on the base of the wick into the wax, I don't find that if there is mushrooming,that it falls of in the wax.You just have to be a little careful, then the next time, before you light it, then trim your wick and your good to go. I hate the smell of the smoke you get when you blow out your candles, if I can't find my wick dipper, I will take it outside and blow it out AuntieS