Brooke Martin
Candles are a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance and aroma at home. However, they can also negatively impact indoor air quality. Burning candles release hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other toxic chemicals into the air, which can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. The type of wax and wick used can affect the amount and kind of emissions generated. While the impact on health is debated, it is generally advisable to use candles in moderation and ensure proper ventilation to maintain good indoor air quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air pollutants | Yes |
| Health risk | Low to moderate |
| Hydrocarbons | Yes |
| Toluene | Yes |
| Benzene | Yes |
| Soot | Yes |
| Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) | Yes |
| Lead | Yes |
| Asthma and allergies | Risk factor |
| Alternative | Beeswax, soy, candle warmers, diffusers, humidifiers, air purifiers, HEPA filters |
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What You'll Learn
Candles release hydrocarbons into the air
Candles are a source of indoor air pollution, and they do release hydrocarbons into the air. Hydrocarbons are chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon. Burning candles release trace quantities of toluene and benzene. Toluene is commonly found in paint thinners and adhesives. Exposure to toluene without proper ventilation can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. It can also cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety. Benzene is a gas emitted by forest fires, volcanoes, and burning coal or oil.
Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum byproduct. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens. These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems. A 2005 study published by the University of South Florida showed that candles made of paraffin wax emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit. In addition to releasing toxic chemicals, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours.
However, not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants. A 2002 study published in the Journal of the American Oil Chemists' Society found that soy wax and beeswax candles burned at a significantly lower rate and resulted in less soot than paraffin candles. Beeswax candles clean the air by releasing negative ions into the air, which bind with toxins and help remove them from the air.
While candles do release hydrocarbons into the air, they do not pose a significant health risk to most people. However, it is important to choose candles wisely and burn them responsibly. Using candles in moderation and ensuring proper ventilation can help maintain good indoor air quality.
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They can lower indoor air quality
Burning candles can lower indoor air quality by releasing harmful chemicals into the air. The average candle can release pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), into the air, even when unlit. These airborne chemicals include terpenes such as limonene (lemon scent) and alpha-pinene (the smell of pine).
Candles can also release carcinogenic toxins, such as benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein, into the air. These toxins are similar to those produced by burning diesel fuel. In addition, candles can release smoke and soot, which can contaminate ventilation systems and discolour walls and ceilings.
The type of wax and wick used in a candle can also impact the air quality. Paraffin wax, for example, is a petroleum byproduct that can release toxic VOCs and soot particles when burned. Metal-core wicks, which were once commonly made with lead, can also release heavy metals into the air.
However, not all candles are equal in the amount of air pollutants they produce. Soy wax and beeswax candles, for example, burn at a lower rate and produce less soot than paraffin wax candles. Additionally, candles with braided cotton or paper wicks using a cellulose core can help prevent the wick from falling over and releasing soot.
While candles can lower indoor air quality, there are ways to mitigate their impact. Burning candles in well-ventilated areas and using air purifiers or vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters can help improve air quality. Choosing candles made with natural ingredients, such as beeswax or soy wax, and avoiding paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, can also help reduce the release of harmful chemicals.
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Some candles emit harmful chemicals
Candles are a popular way to create a pleasant ambiance at home. However, they can also negatively impact indoor air quality by releasing harmful chemicals into the air. The average candle can release harmful chemicals into the air, even when unlit. From the wax to the wick to the fragrance, candles can emit pollutants that can be harmful to human health.
Most candles are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct. When burned, paraffin wax can release toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens. These toxic chemicals are the same as those found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems. In addition, burning paraffin wax produces soot composed of particulate matter such as PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours.
Scented candles, in particular, can be a source of indoor air pollution. The synthetic fragrances and dyes used to create pleasing aromas can give off dangerous VOCs, even at room temperature. These VOCs can include terpenes such as limonene (lemon scent) and alpha-pinene (the smell of pine).
Another concern with candles is the presence of heavy metals in the wicks. Lead was once commonly used in cored candle wicks, but it was banned in 2003 due to the risk of lead poisoning. However, zinc and tin have been used as substitutes, and these metals can still release small amounts of lead particles when burned.
While not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants, it is essential to choose candles wisely and burn them responsibly. Beeswax and soy candles are known to burn cleaner than paraffin wax, releasing significantly less soot. Additionally, proper ventilation and indoor air filtration can help improve indoor air quality when burning candles.
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They can cause health issues
While candles are a popular way to create a pleasant ambience at home, they can also cause health issues. Burning candles release hydrocarbons into the air, which can lead to respiratory issues. In particular, candles release trace quantities of toluene and benzene. Exposure to toluene without proper ventilation can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and skin, and cause headaches, dizziness, confusion and anxiety. Benzene is a known carcinogen, and exposure to it has also been linked to an increased risk of developing leukaemia and other blood cancers.
Candles also release soot, which is made up of particulate matter such as PM2.5 and ultrafine particles that can remain suspended in the air for hours and may take days to settle. In addition, candles with metal-core wicks release trace amounts of heavy metals into the air when burned. Lead was once commonly used in cored candle wicks, but after it was found to present a lead poisoning hazard, the US banned its use in 2003. However, wicks with zinc and tin cores can still release small amounts of lead particles.
The type of wax used in candles also makes a difference. Paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum, releases toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air when burned. These include known carcinogens and can cause allergies, asthma attacks and skin problems. A study by the University of South Florida found that paraffin wax candles emit low levels of benzene even when they are not lit. On the other hand, beeswax candles clean the air by releasing negative ions that bind with toxins and help remove them from the air. Soy candles are another healthier alternative, as they burn at a lower temperature and produce less soot than paraffin candles.
While candles do release pollutants into the air, the impact on health is not fully understood. According to Dr Farooq, indoor cooking increases particulate matter in the air and is linked to respiratory illnesses, whereas scented candles are not dangerous by comparison. However, it is advisable to use candles in moderation and ensure proper ventilation to maintain good indoor air quality.
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There are alternatives to paraffin candles
Burning candles releases hydrocarbons into the air, which can negatively impact air quality. While the scientific community is divided on the extent of the health risks posed by candle emissions, it is widely acknowledged that candles do contribute to air pollution.
Paraffin candles, in particular, have been associated with higher emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter, such as soot. Paraffin is a petroleum byproduct, and burning it releases toxic chemicals, including known carcinogens like benzene and toluene. These chemicals can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and skin, and may also cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and anxiety.
Given these concerns, consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives to paraffin candles. Here are some suggestions for non-paraffin candles that can provide a healthier and more environmentally friendly option:
- Beeswax candles: Beeswax candles are a natural and non-toxic alternative to paraffin. They burn cleaner and do not release toxic chemicals into the air. Live Your Faith Catholic offers a range of beeswax candles, including taper candles and pillar candles with various scents.
- Soy wax candles: Soy wax has gained popularity as a more sustainable option. While some debate exists about the difference in soot and toxin production between soy and paraffin wax, soy wax generally burns slower and produces less soot than paraffin. However, it is important to note that soy wax is often blended with paraffin, so pure soy wax candles may be harder to find.
- Coconut soy wax blend: For those seeking a strong scent, a coconut soy wax blend can be a good option. Live Your Faith Catholic offers a coconut soy wax prayer candle with a delightful White Tea scent, providing a safer and environmentally friendly alternative to paraffin.
- Other natural waxes: Vegetable wax and coconut wax are also natural alternatives to paraffin. While some companies blend these waxes with paraffin, others, like Bath and Body Works, offer candles with natural wax blends to appeal to consumers seeking more sustainable options.
When choosing candles, it is important to consider not only the type of wax but also the quality and source. Avoid cheap imported candles, as they may not meet safety and quality standards. Prioritize reputable brands that focus on quality fragrance oils and avoid gimmicky additives. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation and indoor air filtration to maintain good air quality in your space.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, burning candles can release hydrocarbons, benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, and soot into the air, which can negatively impact air quality. However, not all candles produce the same amount of air pollutants, and the impact on health is disputed.
Paraffin candles are the worst offenders as they are made from petroleum, which releases toxins and pollutants when burned. Scented candles are also worse for air quality as they release additional chemicals into the air.
Beeswax and soy candles are healthier alternatives as they burn cleaner and produce less soot. Candles with braided cotton or paper wicks using a cellulose core are also better for air quality.
To improve air quality when burning candles, ensure proper ventilation and use indoor air filtration systems such as HEPA filters, air purifiers, and humidifiers. Burning candles with natural scents or essential oils can also help improve air quality.
