Brooke Martin
Target's Project 62 candles are a popular choice for home decor and fragrance. With a range of scents and designs, these candles are marketed as an affordable way to create a pleasant atmosphere. However, concerns have been raised about the potential toxicity of candles in general, prompting consumers to question whether Project 62 candles are safe. While there have been recalls of certain Target candles due to laceration and burn hazards, there is limited information specifically regarding the toxicity of Project 62 candles. The broader debate around candle safety centres on the emission of pollutants and the impact on indoor air quality.
Project 62 Candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Target |
| Wax Type | Soy wax |
| Wick Type | 3-wick |
| Scents | Amber, Bergamot, Patchouli, Wild Hibiscus Sangria, Pineapple & Bamboo Leaf, Aloha Hibiscus, Paradise Pineapple, Vanilla, Citrus, Sandalwood, Peony, Citronella |
| Toxicity | No evidence of toxicity, but some sources claim that burning any candle can emit pollutants and reduce indoor air quality |
| Discontinued | Some Project 62 candles were discontinued in 2021/2022 |
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What You'll Learn
Project 62 candles are made from soy wax
Soy wax, on the other hand, is a natural product that is biodegradable and renewable. It is also a sustainable alternative to paraffin wax. However, it is important to note that soy beans are one of the most highly pesticide-controlled crops, and the process of turning the bean into wax is lengthy. Additionally, soy wax must be bleached and treated with chemicals, so it cannot be considered organic.
Project 62 candles are available in a variety of scents and designs, including jar candles, tealights, and flameless options. They are known for their pleasant, calming scents and great burn time. The brand offers a range of options to suit different needs and preferences, such as beeswax, paraffin wax, 3-wick candles, and unscented candles.
While soy wax is often marketed as a healthier choice, it is important to understand that any candle you burn indoors will emit some pollution into the air. This is because the simple act of burning something creates pollutants. Additionally, the term “toxic” is not precisely defined, and different people may have varying interpretations of it.
Overall, Project 62 candles made from soy wax offer a potentially healthier alternative to traditional paraffin wax candles, but it is important to be aware of the limitations and considerations associated with any indoor burning.
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They are scented with essential oils
While there is no definitive evidence that candles are toxic, some people in the "clean living world" claim that "candles are toxic" or that they "release toxic chemicals". The term "toxic", however, is not strictly defined and can mean different things to different people. It is true that candles emit various chemicals that can lower indoor air quality, and many of these chemicals do not have defined "safe thresholds".
Project 62 candles are a Target brand of scented candles. They are made with essential oils and come in simple yet beautiful debossed ceramic containers. All of the candles, even the smaller ones, have three wicks to release the maximum amount of scent. Some of the fragrances include Amber, Bergamot, Patchouli, Wild Hibiscus Sangria, Pineapple & Bamboo Leaf, Aloha Hibiscus, and Paradise Pineapple.
Essential oils, which are used to scent Project 62 candles, can be classified as emitting VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs are present in many indoor pollutants, and indoor air quality is generally worse than outdoor air quality. However, it is important to note that not all VOCs are equally harmful, and the term VOC simply refers to anything that emits an odour.
When it comes to non-toxic candles, soy wax is often considered a healthier alternative to paraffin wax, which is commonly found in store-bought candles and is considered "toxic". However, it is important to note that soy wax is not truly organic, as it must be bleached and treated with chemicals. Additionally, soy wax has a lower melting point and burns more quickly, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the candle.
While Project 62 candles are scented with essential oils, which may raise concerns about indoor air quality, there is no clear evidence that these candles are toxic. The classification of essential oils as emitting VOCs does not necessarily mean they are harmful, and the benefits of scented candles include pleasant, calming scents and mood lighting.
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Target recalled some candles due to safety concerns
In August 2023, Target recalled about 2.2 million scented candles due to safety concerns. The recall was issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) after receiving multiple reports of the candles' glass jars shattering while the wick was burning. The recalled candles were sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide from February 2020 to July 2023, for between $3 and $12.
The affected products were the Threshold Glass Jar 5.5-ounce 1-Wick and 20-ounce 3-Wick Candles in various scents, including Blue Agave & Cactus, Frosted Holly Berries, Pineapple Sage, Apple & Evergreen, and Vanilla Pumpkin, among others. The item numbers for the recalled candles can be found on the product stickers at the bottom of the glass jars.
The candle jars were found to crack or break during use, posing laceration and burn hazards to consumers. Target received 137 reports of the jars breaking or cracking, with one incident resulting in a minor injury. The company urged consumers to immediately stop using the recalled candles and offered a full refund for returned products.
This incident highlights the potential dangers associated with certain candle products and underscores the importance of adhering to safety standards and regulations. While candles can enhance ambiance and scent in our homes, it is crucial to prioritize safety and be vigilant about potential hazards.
Target's recall of these candles demonstrates their commitment to consumer safety and their proactive response to a potentially harmful situation. By taking prompt action and offering refunds, Target has mitigated the risk of further injuries and reinforced their dedication to customer well-being. This incident serves as a reminder to regularly check product safety recalls and stay informed about potential hazards to ensure the safe use of various household items, including candles.
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Some claim candles are toxic due to indoor air quality
Some people claim that candles are toxic due to their impact on indoor air quality. The term "toxic" is often used loosely and can be misleading as it doesn't have a precise definition. However, it is true that burning candles can release various chemicals into the air, which can lower indoor air quality. This is not unique to candles, as any form of burning, such as using a toaster, can emit pollutants.
The type of wax and the presence of added scents can contribute to the potential toxicity of candles. Paraffin wax, commonly used in store-bought candles, is often considered "toxic." On the other hand, soy wax, which is used in some non-toxic candles, has a lower melting point and burns faster, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the candle. However, it's important to note that the soy industry's claims about the dangers of paraffin have not been supported by peer-reviewed scientific studies, and soy beans themselves are heavily treated with pesticides.
The addition of scents to candles can also be a source of concern. Synthetic scents are often marketed as "cleaner," but studies have shown that they don't burn cleanly. Essential oils, which are used in some candles, can also emit VOCs (volatile organic compounds). However, it's worth noting that the term VOC simply refers to anything that emits an odour, and not all VOCs are equally harmful.
The impact of candles on indoor air quality is further exacerbated by other factors that contribute to indoor air pollution, such as gas stoves, building materials, furniture, and more. While the specific Project 62 candles from Target that you referenced are challenging to find, the brand does offer a range of candles, including soy wax options, which are likely comparable to other soy wax candles in terms of potential toxicity.
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Paraffin wax is considered toxic by some
Project 62 candles are made from paraffin wax, beeswax, or soy wax. While paraffin wax is considered non-toxic by some, there is debate about its safety.
Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil, and there are concerns about its toxicity and environmental impact. Some studies have found that burning paraffin wax releases toxic chemicals such as toluene and benzene, which are known carcinogens. However, others argue that the amount released is insignificant and that other factors, such as poor air quality, are more likely to cause health issues.
The debate around paraffin wax toxicity may be due to a lack of refinement in some waxes. Fully refined paraffin wax is chemically different from less refined waxes and is highly purified and non-toxic. However, many people still associate it with less refined petroleum products.
Additionally, the soy industry has been accused of demonizing paraffin wax to promote soy wax as a safer alternative. Some claim that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the notion that paraffin wax is more toxic than other types of wax.
While the toxicity of paraffin wax is a complex issue with varying opinions, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with burning any type of candle. Indoor air quality can be significantly impacted by burning candles, and even essential oils can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential risks and take steps to ensure adequate ventilation when burning candles.
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Frequently asked questions
Project 62 is a Target brand that offers a range of candles made from different types of wax, including soy wax and paraffin wax. While there is ongoing debate about the toxicity of candles, there is no definitive evidence that Project 62 candles are toxic. However, Target did recall certain Threshold Glass Jar candles due to laceration and burn hazards.
The term “toxic” is not precisely defined, and the candle industry often uses it as a catch-all term. However, candles can emit various chemicals that reduce indoor air quality and potentially expose individuals to harmful pollutants and carcinogens.
Some candle brands advertise the use of “cleaner synthetic scents" and claim to avoid carcinogens and endocrine disruptors. While there is debate about the accuracy of these claims, some people prefer candles made from beeswax or soy wax, although these options may have shorter burn times.
