Ben Carter
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but did you know that some candles can be toxic? The main concerns with candles are the release of harmful chemicals, air pollution, and the use of petroleum-based wax. To ensure a safer candle-burning experience, it is recommended to opt for candles made from natural materials like beeswax, soy, or coconut wax, which offer a cleaner burn and fewer harmful byproducts. These candles are renewable, biodegradable, and produce little to no soot. Additionally, look for candles scented with essential oils or natural isolates rather than synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergies and irritate the respiratory system. To avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, it is also important to ensure proper ventilation when burning any type of candle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wax | Beeswax, soy, coconut, vegetable, palm |
| Petroleum-based wax | Avoid |
| Fragrance | Phthalate-free, 100% essential oils, CO2 extracts, naturally derived isolates |
| Wick | 100% cotton or wooden wicks |
| Burn time | 1-2 hours minimum, 4-5 hours maximum |
| Dye | Avoid |
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What You'll Learn
Avoid paraffin, gel, and synthetic fragrances
While candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, traditional candles can be a source of indoor air pollution, releasing harmful chemicals and supporting the fossil fuel industry. The main culprits behind these harmful emissions are the wax and fragrance used in traditional candles.
Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil, is one of the most common candle materials due to its affordability and wide range of colours and scents. However, burning paraffin wax releases a mix of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals, such as benzene and toluene, into the air. These compounds can cause headaches, irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and even damage the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Some VOCs are also suspected or proven carcinogens. Therefore, it is best to avoid paraffin wax candles and opt for greener alternatives.
Gel candles are also best avoided as they, too, are petroleum byproducts and can release harmful chemicals when burned.
In addition to the type of wax, the fragrance used in candles can also be a source of concern. Many candles contain synthetic fragrances made of chemicals that can trigger allergies, irritate the respiratory system, and release VOCs and other carcinogens. These synthetic fragrances are often shrouded in mystery, with companies allowed to hide thousands of ingredients under the single word "fragrance" on their labels. To avoid potential health risks, look for candles scented with 100% essential oils, CO2 extracts, or naturally derived isolates. Transparent brands will disclose how the oil was extracted and the plant's origin. Additionally, ensure the fragrance oils are free from harmful chemicals and phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption.
Overall, when choosing a candle, it is best to avoid paraffin and gel waxes and synthetic fragrances. Instead, opt for candles made from natural waxes like beeswax, soy, or coconut wax and scented with essential oils or natural isolates.
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Choose beeswax, soy, or coconut wax
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but traditional candles can be a source of indoor air pollution, releasing harmful chemicals and supporting the fossil fuels industry. To avoid this, opt for candles made from natural materials like beeswax, soy, or coconut wax.
Beeswax candles are a great option as they are natural and renewable, often smelling great even without added scents. Beeswax also has the added benefit of releasing negative ions, which can help to remove odours and purify the air. They also tend to have a longer burn time compared to other natural waxes.
Soy wax is another excellent choice for a non-toxic candle. It is a natural alternative to paraffin wax, which can release harmful chemicals when burned. Soy wax is made from soybeans, making it biodegradable and renewable. It is known for burning more cleanly, producing little to no soot, and has a longer burn time than paraffin candles.
Coconut wax is a newer addition to the market and is derived from coconut oil. These candles are praised for their slow burn and excellent scent throw. However, they can be more expensive due to the labour-intensive extraction process.
When choosing a candle, it is also important to consider the fragrance. Many candles are made with synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergies and irritate the respiratory system. Look for candles scented with 100% essential oils, CO2 extracts, or naturally derived isolates. Transparent brands will disclose how the oil was extracted and the plant's source.
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Opt for natural wicks
The type of wick used in a candle is an important consideration when choosing the safest option. While lead was banned in US-made wicks in 2003, it may still be present in candles manufactured outside the US. Therefore, it is best to opt for natural wicks made from 100% cotton or wood. These wicks are safer alternatives to lead wicks and provide a cleaner burn.
In addition to the health benefits, natural wicks can also enhance the overall experience of burning a candle. Cotton and wooden wicks provide a more stable and even burn, reducing the amount of soot produced. This not only improves air quality but also helps to extend the burn time of the candle, providing better value for money.
It is also important to consider the type of wax and fragrance used in combination with natural wicks. Soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax are natural alternatives to paraffin wax, which has been linked to the release of harmful chemicals and indoor air pollution. These natural waxes burn cleaner and produce fewer harmful byproducts. However, it is worth noting that even natural waxes can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when scented, so opting for unscented or naturally scented candles is recommended.
When it comes to fragrance, synthetic fragrances are a common concern. These fragrances are made with chemicals that can trigger allergies, irritate the respiratory system, and release VOCs. Instead, look for candles scented with 100% essential oils, CO2 extracts, or naturally derived isolates. These natural fragrances provide a safer and more transparent alternative, allowing you to enjoy the aroma of your candle without compromising your health.
By opting for natural wicks and combining them with natural waxes and fragrances, you can create a safer and more sustainable candle experience. This ensures that your candle is not only beneficial for your well-being but also for the environment, providing peace of mind as you unwind and relax.
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Ventilate your space
While candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, it's important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with their use. Even the most natural-seeming candle can fill your home with harmful pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to ventilate your space properly when burning candles.
Opening a window or using a fan is an effective way to ensure proper ventilation and reduce the risk of inhaling toxic fumes. This is especially important if you are burning scented candles, as they can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) both before and after being lit. VOCs can cause various health issues, including headaches, irritation to the eyes, nose, or throat, nausea, and even organ damage.
In addition to ventilating your space, it is recommended to opt for candles made from natural materials, such as beeswax, soy, or coconut wax. These candles provide a cleaner burn and produce fewer harmful byproducts than traditional paraffin candles. They are also renewable and biodegradable, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
When choosing a scented candle, look for those scented with 100% essential oils, CO2 extracts, or naturally derived isolates. Avoid candles with undisclosed "fragrance" or "parfum" on the label, as these terms can be used to hide potentially harmful ingredients. Phthalate-free and paraben-free fragrances are also a healthier option.
By taking these precautions and properly ventilating your space, you can safely enjoy the warmth and ambiance that candles bring to your home without compromising your health or the environment.
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Avoid candles with undisclosed ingredients
Candles can be a great way to create a cosy atmosphere and add a pleasant scent to your home. However, traditional candles can also be a source of indoor air pollution, which can be harmful to your health. To ensure you're choosing the safest option, it's important to pay attention to the ingredients listed on the candle's label.
One of the biggest red flags to watch out for is undisclosed ingredients. If a candle label simply says "fragrance" or "parfum" without specifying what's in the blend, it's best to avoid it. Under U.S. law, companies can hide thousands of ingredients under these broad terms, and you as a consumer have no way of knowing what you're actually bringing into your home.
Synthetic fragrances are a common concern, as they can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. These compounds can trigger allergies, headaches, and respiratory issues. They can also release other carcinogens, contributing to poor indoor air quality. So, when choosing a scented candle, opt for those that use 100% essential oils, CO2 extracts, or naturally derived isolates instead. Transparent brands will even disclose how the oil was extracted and the plant's origin. Brands like Henry Rose, Heretic, By Rosie Jane, Skylar, and The Nue Co. are known for their full disclosure of fragrance components.
In addition to fragrances, other red flag ingredients to avoid include phthalates (especially Diethyl Phthalate and Dibutyl Phthalate), synthetic musks (such as Galaxolide, Tonalide, and Cashmeran), parabens (for example, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, and Butylparaben), and petroleum-derived solvents (like Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, and Isoparaffin).
By steering clear of candles with undisclosed ingredients and familiarizing yourself with red flag ingredients, you can make more informed choices when it comes to the safety and health of your indoor space.
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Frequently asked questions
Beeswax, soy, and coconut wax candles are safer alternatives to traditional candles. They are made from natural materials and provide a cleaner burn with fewer harmful byproducts.
Traditional candles are often made with paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil. When burned, paraffin wax releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals, contributing to poor indoor air quality.
When buying candles, opt for those made from natural waxes like beeswax, soy, or coconut wax. Look for brands that use 100% essential oils or natural isolates for fragrance instead of synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergies and irritate the respiratory system. Also, ensure the wicks are made from natural materials like 100% cotton or wood.
