How to use Witch Bells for Protection

Though, mainly associated with witchcraft, witch bells make a charming and unusual addition to any home. This post offers a practical guide on using them, both in the decorative and magical context. We begin by explaining the traditional use of witch bells and how they are believed to ward off negative energy. We then demonstrate how witch bells should be used, including choosing and cleansing them, placing them in the home and incorporating them into rituals. We conclude on how we like to use our own witch bells, with some examples, handmade by us, that you can purchase on this website.

Owen & Lorna x

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1. A potent symbol of protection

Throughout folklore and mythology, the interplay between the mystical and the mundane often finds its most vibrant expressions in the symbols and tools associated with magic.

Among these, witch bells stand out as enchanting objects steeped in tradition and superstition. For centuries, these beautifully crafted bells have been both a practical item and a potent symbol of protection, heralding the boundaries between the known world and the realms of the supernatural.

2. What are witch bells used for?

Often associated with practices of witchcraft and the safeguarding of homes from malevolent spirits, witch bells (or witches bells) are a powerful tool in folk magic. Traditionally, they are hung on a door handle or window to prevent unwanted spirits and/or negative energy from entering living spaces, while simultaneously attracting positive influences.

3. Where to get your witch bells

Whether seen as mere decorations or powerful talismans, witch bells continue to fascinate us. They are seen as an essential tool for practitioners of witchcraft, particularly those who focus on protection and energy work.

For those who are just getting into witchcraft or those who just want witch bells for decorative purposes, here are some suggestions as to how you can acquire your own set.

Buy your witch bells

If you’re not very crafty, buying witch bells is an easy way to acquire a set. Amazon have a good selection of witch bells.

Make your own witch bells

Materials: Traditional witch bells are made from small bells attached to a string, ribbon or cord. You can use additional materials like beads, crystals, herbs or charms to enhance their power.
Number of Bells: Use a number of bells that resonates with you or has symbolic meaning (e.g., three for protection, five for balance).
Customization: Making your own witch bells allows you to imbue them with your own personal energy and intention. See our own selection of handmade witch bells here.

4. Where to hang witch bells

Witch bells are commonly hung in specific locations to enhance their protective and cleansing properties. For protection throughout the home, bells can be placed in different rooms to ensure the flow of positive energy, often in corners, above doorways, or in places where negative energy might linger.

Some people place bells near their bed to create a peaceful, protected space, which can be helpful for warding off bad dreams or promoting restful sleep.

Witch bells can also be placed outside the home to extend their protective and cleansing properties to the surrounding environment. Hanging them on the front door is a common practice, where the bells act as a shield. This placement ensures that every time the door opens, the bells will ring, dispelling negative energy and protecting your home.

5. Where to hang witch bells outside

You can also place bells on windows or other doors in your home to create a protective barrier throughout your living space. If you have a dedicated altar or other sacred space, hanging witch bells nearby can help maintain the area’s positive energy.

Witch bells can also be hung outside, from trees, fences, or garden gates to help guard the boundaries of the property. In patios or porches, too, witch bells can add a calm, harmonious atmosphere in areas where you spend time relaxing or socialising.

Some people use witch bells as part of nature-based rituals, where the sound of the wind passing through the bells connects with the elements, amplifying the bells’ magical and protective influence.

6. Cleanse and consecrate

Cleansing: Witches usually cleanse their witch bells first before using them, often using sage or rosemary or some other sacred incense. Some believe that placing them under moonlight or using sound (e.g., a singing bowl) can also cleanse witch bells.
Consecration: Hold the bells in your hands and set your intention for protection. Speak or think clearly about what you want the bells to do and what protection you require from them.

7. Use the bells actively

Ring the Bells: Ring the bells intentionally whenever you feel the need to cleanse your space or when you sense negativity. The sound is believed to disrupt and repel negative energy or spirits.
During Rituals: Use the bells during rituals or spells as a tool for invoking protection, calling upon spirits, or amplifying energy.

8. Regular maintenance

Recharging: Periodically cleanse and recharge your witch bells to keep their protective energy strong. You might do this on a full moon, during a solstice, or whenever you feel they need it.
Inspection: Check the bells regularly to ensure they are intact. Broken or missing bells can signify that they’ve absorbed negative energy and need to be replaced or repaired.

9. Intention reinforcement

Affirmations: Speak protective affirmations or prayers over your witch bells whenever you feel the need to reinforce their purpose.
Visualisation: Visualise the protective energy surrounding your home each time the bells ring, imagining any negativity being pushed out and away from your space.

10. Symbolism and Beliefs

The ringing of bells has long been associated with warding off evil, dispelling bad spirits, and clearing energy. The sound is thought to purify and protect the space, making witch bells a simple yet powerful tool in your spiritual practice. By using witch bells for protection of your home, family or sacred space, you create an ongoing ritual of protection, ensuring that your environment remains safe and energetically clear.

However, if witchcraft is not your thing and you just want these charming witch bells for decorative purposes, you can hang them just about anywhere.. From a hook on a wall, above your fireplace, in front of a mirror.. You can even hang them from your Christmas tree (as we do!)..

The choice is yours.