Chloe Adams
Candles are a popular way to add atmosphere to a room, but they can also be a source of harmful gases and sediments. While Trapp candles are marketed as luxury candles with a unique and rich scent, it is important to consider whether they are toxic. Trapp candles are made from a customized mixture of fully-refined paraffin and soy wax, which is known to release scent perfectly and burn cleanly. However, paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct, which can release harmful pollutants into the air.
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What You'll Learn
Trapp candles are made from a mixture of paraffin and soy wax
Candles are a great way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. However, did you know that some candles could be filling your home with harmful gases and sediments? While candles are a simple pleasure, they can also be a source of harmful pollution and can support the fossil fuels industry.
Trapp candles are an exception to this. They are made from a customized mixture of fully-refined paraffin and soy wax. The combination of these two types of wax allows the candle to release its scent effectively and burn cleanly. Each candle is carefully poured and includes a high-quality lead-free wick. The lead-free wick ensures that the candle burns with a minimum of soot, reducing the potential for respiratory issues.
Soy wax is a natural wax derived from soybeans. It is a popular choice for candle makers and consumers due to its clean-burning properties and sustainability. Soy wax is also biodegradable and non-toxic, making it a safer option for candle lovers. On the other hand, paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct that can release harmful gases when burned. However, when combined with soy wax in Trapp candles, the amount of paraffin wax is reduced, minimizing its potential negative impact.
Trapp candles are known for their high-quality fragrances. The brand travels the world to source the finest ingredients for their perfumes, such as lavender from France and lemongrass from Asia. Their unique manufacturing process saturates the candles thoroughly with a large quantity of high-quality fragrance, resulting in a rich and intoxicating scent. Trapp candles are an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy the ambiance of a candle without compromising their health or the environment.
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Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct
Trapp candles are made from a customized mixture of fully-refined paraffin and soy wax. Paraffin wax, also known as petroleum wax, is a soft, colourless solid derived from petroleum, coal, or oil shale. It consists of hydrocarbon molecules containing between 20 and 40 carbon atoms. Paraffin wax was first created by Carl Reichenbach in Germany in 1830, revolutionizing candlemaking technology due to its cleaner and more reliable burn compared to tallow candles, as well as its lower production cost.
Paraffin wax is commonly used in candles, lubrication, electrical insulation, crayons, cosmetics, and skincare products. It has a melting point between approximately 37°C and 68°C and a density of around 900 kg/m3. The wax is often modified to change its crystal properties, such as melt point and penetration. The lower the percentage of oil in the wax, the more refined it is considered.
As a petroleum byproduct, paraffin wax has drawn environmental concerns due to the negative impacts of the crude oil industry on the environment. These impacts include habitat destruction, water pollution, and ecosystem disruption caused by drilling, fracking, and oil spills. However, some argue that using petroleum byproducts can contribute to sustainability by utilizing materials that would otherwise be discarded.
While there are toxicity concerns associated with paraffin wax, studies have shown that the combustion byproducts of paraffin wax candles are similar in composition and quantity to those of other types of wax candles, with emissions levels well below indoor air standards. Soot is another concern, as paraffin candles may produce more soot than natural wax candles, which can cause damage to walls, appliances, and ductwork. However, proper candle care, such as wick trimming and adequate ventilation, can help mitigate these issues.
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Candles can release harmful gases and sediments
Candles are a great way to add atmosphere to a room, but they can also be a source of harmful gases and sediments. During combustion, candles release soot carbon particles that can lead to respiratory problems. These particles are released regardless of the type of wax used, be it paraffin, vegetable oil, or beeswax.
Paraffin wax, in particular, is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale, and is therefore associated with the fossil fuel industry. Aromatherapy candles made from paraffin or gel, both petroleum byproducts, should be avoided. Instead, opt for beeswax or soy candles, which are safer and greener alternatives.
In addition to the type of wax, the fragrance and dye used in candles can also be a source of toxins. Synthetic fragrances and dyes can contain toxic plasticizers and solvents. Artificial dyes can also burn, producing additional soot. If you're concerned about the potential toxins in candles, look for those made with natural dyes and perfumes, such as beeswax or vegetable oil-based candles.
While most candles today have cotton wicks, it's important to note that some older candles may still have metal wire cores. Before 2003, many of these metal-cored wicks contained lead, which has since been banned. However, it's better to be safe and test for the presence of lead. You can do this by rubbing a piece of paper on the unburned wick—if you see any black marks, it's best to avoid burning that candle.
To minimize the risk of exposure to harmful gases and sediments from candles, it's recommended to always ventilate the space with a fan or open window. Additionally, be mindful of how long you burn your candles—follow the recommended duration on the label, which is usually around 3 hours. Regularly trimming the wick to 1/8 or 1/4 inch before each use can also help reduce soot buildup.
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Candles with synthetic fragrances may contain toxic plasticizers and solvents
While candles can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your home, some may contain harmful chemicals. Many candles contain synthetic fragrances, which may include toxic plasticizers and solvents.
Synthetic fragrances used in scented candles contain phthalates, which are chemical compounds referred to as plasticizers. Phthalates are used as solvents that enhance the fragrance in a range of products, including skincare, cosmetics, nail polishes, and candles. When these types of candles are burnt, phthalates are released into the air and can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Phthalates are known to aggravate conditions like asthma and disrupt hormonal levels. They are also endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that can contribute to developmental issues in children and fertility challenges in adults.
In addition to phthalates, scented candles may also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) before and while they are lit. Exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, irritate the eyes, nose, or throat, cause nausea, and damage the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system. One study found that burning scented candles releases formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and particulate matter into the air.
To reduce exposure to toxic chemicals, it is recommended to choose candles made with natural fragrances, such as essential oils, and avoid synthetic scents. Beeswax and soy candles are also safer, greener options that fill your home with soothing scents without the risk of toxic chemicals. Additionally, ensuring proper ventilation when burning candles can help reduce the risk of inhaling harmful pollutants.
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Trapp candles use fragrances from around the world
While scented candles can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may cause headaches, irritation to the eyes, nose or throat, nausea, and damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system, there is no specific mention of Trapp Candles being toxic. In fact, Trapp Candles are known for their high-quality fragrances and natural ingredients.
Trapp sources the finest ingredients for their fragrances globally. For example, they buy lavender from France and lemongrass from Asia, as these countries produce the finest of these ingredients. Their fragrances combine to create unique scent combinations, such as the popular Lemongrass Verbena candle, which blends citrus and exotic warm notes.
Trapp's commitment to quality extends beyond their fragrances. Their candles are made from a customized mixture of fully-refined paraffin and soy wax, which releases scent perfectly and burns cleanly. Each candle includes a high-quality lead-free wick, ensuring a minimum of soot. The elegant packaging further enhances the overall experience, making Trapp Candles a natural choice for those seeking luxury and simplicity.
With a range of sizes, including standard 5-ounce candles and larger 16-ounce options, Trapp caters to various spaces. Their most popular 7-ounce candle and the 3-wick candle for large spaces showcase their understanding of different customer needs. Trapp's attention to detail, from fragrance to functionality, sets them apart in the world of luxury scented candles.
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Frequently asked questions
Trapp candles are made from a customized mixture of fully-refined paraffin and soy wax. While paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct, Trapp candles are designed to be naturally the best candles on the market. The company travels the world to find the finest fragrances and guarantees that their candles will fill a room with fragrance.
Beeswax candles and soy candles are safer, greener alternatives to toxic candles. Candles made from vegetable oils and natural dyes and perfumes are also less toxic.
Candles can fill your home with harmful gases and sediments, including soot carbon particles that can cause respiratory problems. They can also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause headaches, irritation to the eyes, nose, or throat, nausea, and damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system.
Candles that are made with petroleum-based wax, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrances are often toxic. Aromatherapy candles made of paraffin or gel, both petroleum byproducts, should be avoided. Candles with metal-cored wicks may also be toxic, especially if they contain lead.
