Brooke Martin
Candles are a popular way to fill our homes with a cosy atmosphere and pleasant scents. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the safety of candles for our health, the environment, and our homes. In particular, the SONOMA Goods For Life three-wick candles were recalled in 2020 due to fire and burn hazards. This recall raises the question: are SONOMA candles toxic?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fire and burn hazard | Yes |
| Toxic | No |
| Wax | Paraffin-free coconut wax blend |
| Wick | Wooden |
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What You'll Learn
Are Sonoma candles toxic to humans?
There is conflicting evidence regarding the toxicity of Sonoma candles. On the one hand, some customers have praised Sonoma candles for being non-toxic, locally made, and safe for their families to breathe. These candles are made from soy-based wax, which is advertised as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional paraffin wax candles.
However, in 2020, Kohl's recalled 512,000 Sonoma Goods for Life three-wick candles due to fire and burn hazards. The recall was issued because the candles' high flames could ignite the surface of the wax or cause the glass to break. There were 29 reports of high flames and/or breaking glass containers, five of which involved minor burns to people, and six involved minor property damage.
While the recall was not specifically due to toxicity concerns, it raises questions about the safety of Sonoma candles. Additionally, some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain scents, and any candle with a wick may release harmful chemicals into the air when burned, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carcinogens.
It is worth noting that the potential health risks associated with scented candles are not limited to Sonoma candles but are a broader issue that has been studied and debated. Some people recommend avoiding scented candles altogether or opting for naturally scented candles made from beeswax or soy wax, which are considered safer alternatives.
Overall, while there may be conflicting evidence about the toxicity of Sonoma candles specifically, it is important to be cautious and weigh the potential risks and benefits before using any scented candle product.
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Are Sonoma candles toxic to pets?
While there is no specific mention of Sonoma candles, there is plenty of information available on the safety of candles for pets.
Soy wax candles are generally considered safe for pets. Soy wax is non-toxic, natural, and renewable, and it does not release harmful chemicals into the air. It is safer than paraffin wax, which releases harmful chemicals such as benzene and toluene when burned. Soy wax candles also burn at a lower temperature, reducing the risk of burns or accidents if your pet comes into contact with them.
However, it is important to be cautious about the other ingredients in candles, such as fragrances and essential oils, which can be harmful to pets. Synthetic fragrances can irritate your pet's respiratory system, causing symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, and eye discharge. Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, cinnamon, citrus, and peppermint can be toxic to pets, especially cats, if ingested or inhaled in large amounts. They can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and even liver damage.
To ensure the safety of your pets, opt for unscented candles or those with natural fragrances derived from herbs, fruits, or flora. If you choose scented candles, ensure they use pet-safe, diluted essential oils. Always keep candles out of your pet's reach to prevent burns and accidental ingestion.
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
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Are Sonoma candles safe to burn?
In 2020, Kohl's recalled its Sonoma Goods For Life branded three-wick candles due to fire and burn hazards. The recall affected over 500,000 candles sold in-store and online between December 2019 and October 2020. The candles' high flames could ignite the surface of the wax or cause the glass containers to break. At the time of the recall, Kohl's had received 29 reports of high flames and/or breaking glass, including five incidents resulting in minor burn injuries and six incidents of minor property damage.
While this particular product has been recalled, it is important to understand the general safety concerns associated with candles. Firstly, the type of wax used in candles is important. Most candles are made from paraffin, which releases carcinogens in the form of soot when burned. However, some modern candles, such as the Sonoma Medium Candle by Oak & Vale, use alternative wax blends like coconut wax, which is biodegradable, sustainable, and natural.
Secondly, the wick of a candle is a crucial factor. Older candles used to have wicks with lead cores, which have been banned since 2003 due to the hazardous levels of lead released during burning. Modern candles should use wicks made from alternative materials such as 100% cotton or sustainably harvested wood, as is the case with the Sonoma Medium Candle.
Additionally, the fragrance used in scented candles can be a cause for concern. Some cheaper candles may contain perfumes or artificial scents that release toxic chemicals when burned. These chemicals can be harmful to humans, especially those with allergies or sensitivities, and can also be toxic to pets. However, not all scented candles are unsafe; some use natural fragrances or perfumes meant to be burned, which are generally considered safe.
Overall, while the Sonoma Goods For Life branded three-wick candles were recalled due to fire and burn hazards, it is important to assess candles on a case-by-case basis. Modern candles that use alternative waxes, safe wicks, and non-toxic fragrances can be burned safely, but it is crucial to research the specific candle's materials and always follow candle care instructions.
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Are Sonoma wicks toxic?
In 2020, Kohl's recalled over 500,000 Sonoma Goods For Life three-wick candles due to fire and burn hazards. The recall was issued after the company received 29 reports of high flames and/or breaking glass containers, five of which resulted in minor burn injuries and six that caused minor property damage. The recalled candles were sold in stores nationwide and online from December 2019 through October 2020 for about $20 each.
While there is no definitive evidence that Sonoma wicks are toxic, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with candle wicks in general. Traditional candle wicks with lead cores were banned in 2003 due to health concerns. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), burning a candle with a lead-core wick releases five times the amount of lead considered hazardous for children and exceeds EPA pollution standards for outdoor air. Exposure to high amounts of lead has been linked to various health problems, including hormone disruption, behavioural issues, and learning disabilities.
To ensure the safest experience when burning candles, it is recommended to use candles with 100% cotton wicks, which are now the most common type of wick on the market. Oak & Vale, a company that sells Sonoma Medium Candles, mentions that their candles feature cotton wicks. They also emphasize that their wicks are clean-burning and sustainably harvested from FSC-certified wood, suggesting an effort to provide a non-toxic and environmentally friendly product.
In addition to the potential risks associated with lead-core wicks, it is worth noting that the wax used in candles can also release toxic chemicals into the air. Paraffin wax, which is commonly used in candles, releases carcinogens in the form of soot when burned. However, there are alternative wax options available, such as the coconut wax blend used in the Sonoma Medium Candles by Oak & Vale, which is advertised as paraffin-free, natural, biodegradable, and sustainable.
When choosing candles, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with both the wicks and the wax. While there is no specific mention of Sonoma wicks being toxic, opting for candles with cotton wicks and natural wax can help reduce potential health and environmental concerns.
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Are there non-toxic alternatives to Sonoma candles?
While there is no conclusive evidence of negative health effects associated with conventional candles, there is some concern that they may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air when they burn. To avoid potential health risks, it is recommended to opt for candles made from plant-based waxes, such as soy, coconut, and beeswax, which are considered non-toxic. These candles provide a cleaner burn and delightful aromas without compromising your health.
Beeswax candles are an excellent choice as they burn cleaner, purify the air, and have a longer burn time compared to other natural waxes. If beeswax is not available, soy or coconut wax candles are also good alternatives, as they still burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts than traditional paraffin candles.
When choosing a non-toxic candle, it is important to consider not only the wax but also the wick and fragrance source. For the wick, 100% cotton is recommended, as old-school wicks with lead cores have been banned due to their hazardous effects on health. In terms of fragrance, look for candles derived from 100% essential oils, with full transparency in their ingredient lists. While synthetic ingredients are not inherently bad, it is best to choose candles with certified non-toxic synthetic ingredients to be on the safe side.
By making these conscious choices, you can create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environment in your home while still enjoying the delightful experience of burning candles.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2020, Kohl's recalled 500,000+ Sonoma Goods For Life three-wick candles due to fire and burn hazards. There were 29 reports of high flames and/or breaking glass containers, five of which involved minor burns to people and six involved minor property damage. However, it is unclear whether these candles are toxic.
Many candles are made out of paraffin, which releases carcinogens into the air in the form of soot as it burns. Old school wicks had lead cores, which have been linked to hormone disruption, behavioural problems, and learning disabilities. Some cheaper candles may also contain perfumes that become toxic when burnt.
Check the wick and the ingredients. You want a 100% cotton wick. Avoid candles made with paraffin, artificial scents, and perfumes. Look for candles made with natural, biodegradable, and sustainable ingredients, like coconut wax.
Yes, there are many non-toxic alternatives to Sonoma candles. For example, Oak & Vale sells Sonoma Medium Candles made with a paraffin-free coconut wax blend. These candles also feature clean-burning wooden wicks sustainably harvested from FSC-certified wood.
