Brooke Martin
Candles have been used for over two millennia, initially as a significant form of indoor lighting. However, with the invention of electric lighting, candles became non-essential for illumination. Today, candles are still commonly used for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes, as well as in specific cultural and religious settings. While candles provide benefits such as fragrance and therapeutic relaxation, they also expel contaminants into the air, affecting indoor air quality. To mitigate this issue, it is recommended to use candles that burn cleaner, such as those made from beeswax, coconut oil, or soy, and to utilise exhaust fans or ventilation systems when burning candles in enclosed spaces. Interestingly, there is also a market for exhaust-scented candles, catering to car and dirt bike enthusiasts who enjoy the unique aroma of car exhaust or 2-stroke oil.
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What You'll Learn
Burning candles expel contaminants into the air
The type of candle also makes a difference. Candles made from paraffin, an oil-based product, produce the most contaminants. Waxes made from beeswax, coconut oil, or soy are better alternatives as they produce fewer contaminants. The wicks of candles can also impact the number of contaminants released into the air. Modern candles have wicks that curve over as they burn, allowing the end of the wick to be trimmed through incineration by fire. However, pre-19th-century candles required regular wick trimming with scissors or "snuffers" to prevent smoking.
Beeswax candles, which burn cleanly without a smoky flame, have been used historically in church ceremonies. They were also considered luxury household items among the wealthy in the 16th century. However, due to their expense, most people used animal-based tallow candles, which produced an unpleasant smell and a smoky flame. Today, candles made from soy wax are a good option for eco-friendliness and clean burning.
To minimize the impact of candles on indoor air quality, it is recommended to use candles that burn as clean as possible and to utilize ventilation, such as exhaust fans in bathrooms, when burning candles in small, enclosed spaces. While exhaust fans may remove some of the candle fragrances, they can help improve air quality. Additionally, modern exhaust fans are often designed to operate at an almost silent level, preserving the peaceful atmosphere.
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Candles are not the only household item that affects indoor air quality
Candles are a source of indoor air pollution, but they are not the only household item that affects indoor air quality. Indoor air pollution is a global issue, and both short-term and long-term exposure to it can lead to adverse health effects, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, cognitive deficits, and cancer.
One of the main factors contributing to indoor air pollution is inadequate ventilation. Energy-efficient building construction, if not properly ventilated, can increase indoor pollutant levels. Mechanical ventilation devices, such as fans or air handling systems, can help remove indoor air pollutants and distribute filtered outdoor air. However, when there is little infiltration, natural ventilation, or mechanical ventilation, the air exchange rate is low, and pollutant levels can increase.
Building materials and furnishings can also be significant sources of indoor air pollution. Pressed wood products, deteriorated asbestos-containing insulation, and certain types of carpet can release gases or particles into the air. Additionally, personal care products, household cleaners, pesticides, and central heating and cooling systems can contribute to indoor air pollution.
Outdoor sources, such as radon, pesticides, and air pollution, can also impact indoor air quality. Radon, a radioactive gas formed by the decay of uranium, can enter buildings through cracks or gaps in structures. Volatile chemicals in water supplies can become airborne when building occupants use the water for activities such as showering or cooking. Additionally, occupants can inadvertently bring in outdoor pollutants on their shoes and clothing.
It is important to address indoor air quality issues as they can have significant health consequences. Source control is often the most effective solution for improving indoor air quality in homes. Mechanical ventilation devices, proper building design and ventilation, as well as the use of air cleaners or air filters, can help mitigate indoor air pollution levels.
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Cleaner-burning candles are more expensive
Candles are a popular choice for creating a cosy atmosphere, but not all candles are created equal. Many standard candles are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct that releases toxins as it burns, contributing to indoor air pollution. These toxins can irritate sensitive respiratory systems and impact long-term health.
Cleaner-burning candles, on the other hand, use high-quality waxes like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax, which burn more slowly, evenly, and consistently, producing less soot and fewer toxins. These candles create a healthier home environment, making them a better option for those with sensitive respiratory systems or concerns about indoor air quality.
The superior wax used in cleaner-burning candles often comes at a higher cost. Beeswax, for example, has a history of being considered a luxury item, with a past of being used in churches and by the elite due to its clean burn and pleasant fragrance. Even today, beeswax candles are considered more expensive, making them an occasional indulgence for those who value their air-purifying properties and soft, natural fragrance.
The price of cleaner-burning candles can also be influenced by factors beyond the cost of wax. These candles often feature complex scent profiles derived from high-quality essential oils or bespoke perfume blends, enhancing the overall experience and ambiance they create. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into these candles further contribute to their higher price point, positioning them as luxury items that offer an emotional experience and a journey of sensory indulgence.
While cleaner-burning candles come with a higher price tag, they provide peace of mind in knowing that you're creating a healthier and more sustainable living space. By investing in these candles, you support sustainable practices that benefit both you and the environment, making them a worthwhile choice despite their higher cost.
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Burning a candle for longer increases contaminants
Burning a candle involves igniting a wick embedded in wax or another flammable substance, such as tallow. This process releases contaminants into the air. While candles can be a means of relaxation and even therapy, it is important to consider the impact on indoor air quality.
The longer a candle burns, the more contaminants it will produce. This is because the candle is expelling contaminants into the air throughout the duration of its burn. Therefore, burning a candle for longer increases contaminants in the air.
To maintain good indoor air quality while still enjoying the benefits of candles, there are a few simple steps that can be taken. Firstly, opt for candles that burn as cleanly as possible. Candles made from beeswax, coconut oil, or soy wax produce fewer contaminants than those made from paraffin, an oil-based product that generates the most contaminants.
The type of wick used also makes a difference. Traditional wicks required regular trimming to promote steady burning and prevent smoking. Modern candles have wicks that curve over as they burn, with the end of the wick trimmed through incineration by the fire. Choosing candles with these types of wicks can help reduce contaminants.
Additionally, consider the quantity of candles and the duration of their use. Burning a single candle for an extended period will produce more contaminants than lighting several candles for a shorter duration. Using an exhaust fan in enclosed spaces can also help improve air quality while still enjoying the fragrance of candles.
While refraining from using candles altogether would be the best option for optimal indoor air quality, this may not be feasible or desirable for everyone. By following the suggested steps, it is possible to strike a balance between enjoying the benefits of candles and maintaining good air quality indoors.
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Paraffin wax candles produce the most contaminants
Candles have been used for over two millennia, initially in ancient times as a source of light, and later for functional, symbolic, and aesthetic purposes. While candles are no longer essential for illumination, they are still commonly used in specific cultural and religious settings.
However, it is important to note that burning candles expel contaminants into the air, with paraffin wax candles producing the most contaminants. Paraffin is an oil-based product, and while it has made candles affordable for the masses, it is not the cleanest option. The cleaner-burning candles tend to be more expensive and are usually sold through specialty shops. These candles utilize different types of wicks and non-paraffin-based waxes, such as beeswax, coconut oil, or soy, which produce fewer toxins.
The duration and quantity of candle usage also impact the amount of contaminant production. Burning a candle for an extended period will inevitably produce more contaminants. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for candles that burn cleaner and to use them in well-ventilated areas. Utilizing an exhaust fan in the bathroom, for example, can help improve indoor air quality while still enjoying the benefits of candles.
While some may argue that using an exhaust fan diminishes the fragrance of the candles, advancements in technology have led to the development of quieter fans that operate at almost silent levels. Ultimately, the improved air quality, even with some fragrance, is much better for one's health than a large amount of fragrance and poor air quality.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some candle companies have innovated by creating candles with unique aromas, such as car exhaust and 2-stroke oil exhaust, providing a nostalgic or enjoyable experience for car enthusiasts. These candles are often made with soy wax, which burns cleaner than other waxes and is more environmentally friendly.
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Frequently asked questions
When a candle is lit, it expels contaminants into the air. The longer a candle is burnt, the more contaminants are produced. Candles that use paraffin wax produce the most contaminants, while those made from beeswax, coconut oil, or soy produce fewer contaminants.
No, all candles produce some form of exhaust. However, there are candles that burn cleaner than others and produce fewer toxins. These candles typically use different types of wicks and non-paraffin-based waxes.
To reduce candle exhaust, it is recommended to use candles that burn cleaner, such as those made from beeswax, coconut oil, or soy. Additionally, using an exhaust fan can help improve indoor air quality while still enjoying the fragrance of candles. Utilizing candles for a shorter duration can also reduce the amount of contaminants produced.
