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Understanding What Makes Some Candles Less Ideal
So, what are the concerns with conventional candles? Often, the issues lie in the wax, the wick, and the fragrance used. Paraffin Wax: The most common candle wax, paraffin, is a byproduct of petroleum refining. When burned, it can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, similar to those found in diesel exhaust, including known carcinogens like benzene and toluene. While the amounts released by a single candle might be small, frequent burning in enclosed spaces can contribute to indoor air pollution. Synthetic Fragrances: That lovely “Ocean Breeze” or “Vanilla Cookie” scent might come at a cost. Many conventional candles use synthetic fragrance oils, complex chemical mixtures that can contain phthalates. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body’s hormones. These fragrances can also trigger headaches, allergies, or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals. Wicks: Although lead-core wicks were banned in the US in 2003, imported candles might not always adhere to these standards. Lead exposure is harmful, especially to children. Even non-lead metal cores can release trace amounts of heavy metals. Additionally, wicks that aren’t trimmed properly or are made of inferior materials can produce more soot and smoke. Soot: The black residue you sometimes see around a candle jar or even on nearby surfaces is soot – fine carbon particles. Besides being messy, inhaling these particles isn’t great for your lungs. Candles made from paraffin and those with synthetic fragrances or improperly sized wicks tend to produce more soot.What to Look For: The Hallmarks of a Non-Toxic Candle
Navigating the candle aisle becomes much simpler when you know what cleaner alternatives to seek out. Here’s a checklist for finding healthier options:Choose Natural Waxes
- Soy Wax: Made from hydrogenated soybean oil, soy wax is a renewable resource that burns cleaner and slower than paraffin. It typically produces less soot and holds scent well. Look for 100% soy wax, as some “soy blends” can still contain paraffin.
- Beeswax: A completely natural byproduct from bees, beeswax burns very cleanly, often with a subtle honey scent. Some proponents believe burning beeswax can actually help purify the air by releasing negative ions, although scientific evidence for this is limited. It’s generally more expensive but long-lasting. Ensure it’s 100% pure beeswax.
- Coconut Wax: Gaining popularity, coconut wax is derived from hydrogenated coconut oil. It burns slowly and cleanly, has an excellent scent throw (meaning it releases fragrance effectively), and is considered a sustainable option. It’s often blended with other natural waxes like soy or beeswax to improve stability.
- Rapeseed Wax (Canola Wax): Common in Europe, rapeseed wax is another plant-based alternative that burns cleanly and is sustainable.
Opt for Safe Wicks
Look for candles with wicks made from 100% cotton, hemp, or wood. These are natural materials that burn cleanly without releasing harmful metals. Ensure they are lead-free (which should be standard practice for reputable brands sold in major markets).Seek Natural Fragrances
This is crucial. Choose candles scented exclusively with:- 100% Essential Oils: These are plant-derived oils that offer true aromatherapy benefits alongside natural fragrance. The scent profile might be more subtle or earthy compared to synthetic fragrances.
- Phthalate-Free Fragrance Oils: Some brands use high-quality, naturally derived fragrance oils rigorously tested to be free from phthalates and other harmful chemicals. This can offer more complex or specific scent profiles than essential oils alone.
- Unscented: Don’t underestimate the simple beauty of an unscented candle! If you love the ambiance but are sensitive to smells, pure, unscented beeswax or soy candles are a fantastic choice.
Watch Out for Vague Terms! Be cautious of labels like “natural fragrance blend” or “premium wax blend” without further clarification. These terms can sometimes disguise the presence of synthetic ingredients or paraffin. Transparency is key; look for brands that clearly list their ingredients.
Spotlight on Non-Toxic Candle Brands
Ready to find your next favorite healthy candle? Here are a few brands committed to cleaner ingredients and beautiful experiences:Fontana Candle Co.
Why They Shine: Fontana stands out for its strict commitment to truly natural ingredients. They are MADE SAFE® certified, a rigorous third-party verification. Their candles use only beeswax and coconut oil for the wax base, scented purely with essential oils, and feature wooden wicks that crackle softly as they burn. No paraffin, no soy, no synthetic fragrances, period. What to Expect: Earthy, therapeutic scents derived directly from plants like Lavender, Palo Santo, Peppermint, and Citrus blends. The wooden wick adds an extra layer of cozy ambiance. Ideal for the purist seeking the cleanest possible burn.Slow North
Why They Shine: Based in Austin, Texas, Slow North focuses on all-natural botanical goods. Their candles are crafted with 100% soy wax derived from American-grown soybeans, paired with pure essential oils for fragrance. They use cotton and paper wicks. Their commitment extends to sustainable practices and plant-based ingredients across their product line. What to Expect: A lovely range of nature-inspired scents like Eucalyptus + Lavender, Geranium + Rose, and Forest Bathing. The soy wax provides a smooth, creamy appearance and a steady burn. Great for those who love essential oil blends in a soy wax base.Grow Fragrance
Why They Shine: While primarily known for their air fresheners, Grow Fragrance also offers candles with a unique focus on plant-based, toxin-free scents. They pride themselves on 100% plant-based fragrances (no synthetics, phthalates, or parabens) combined with soy and coconut wax. They offer impressive transparency about their scent ingredients. What to Expect: Fresh, modern, and often fruity or floral scents like Pomegranate Fig, Bamboo, and Lavender Blossom. Their commitment to ingredient transparency is a major plus for discerning consumers. A good choice if you enjoy brighter, cleaner fragrance profiles.P.F. Candle Co.
Why They Shine: A popular choice found in many boutiques, P.F. Candle Co. uses 100% US-grown soy wax, cotton-core wicks, and a blend of fragrance oils that are always phthalate-free. While they use fragrance oils rather than exclusively essential oils, their commitment to avoiding phthalates and parabens makes them a significantly better choice than conventional paraffin candles. What to Expect: A wide array of complex and well-loved scents, from earthy Teakwood & Tobacco to fresh Amber & Moss. Their amber jar aesthetic is iconic. A great accessible option for transitioning away from traditional candles, offering sophisticated scents without the phthalates.Brooklyn Candle Studio
Why They Shine: With a minimalist aesthetic, Brooklyn Candle Studio handcrafts their candles using 100% soy wax derived from American-grown soy beans, lead-free cotton core wicks, and a blend of essential oils and premium phthalate-free perfume oils. They focus on high-quality raw materials and sophisticated scent profiles. What to Expect: Chic packaging and intriguing scents inspired by nature and travel, like Santal, Fern + Moss, and Sunday Morning. Their focus on craftsmanship and quality ingredients makes them a favorite for gifting or personal indulgence.Tips for a Healthier Candle Experience
Even with non-toxic candles, practicing good candle care enhances safety and minimizes any potential issues:- Trim the Wick: Before each use, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This prevents excessive smoking, flickering, and soot.
- Avoid Drafts: Burning candles near open windows, vents, or fans can cause uneven burning and increase soot production.
- Limit Burn Time: Avoid burning candles for more than 3-4 hours at a time. Allow the wax to cool completely before relighting.
- Ensure Full Melt Pool: During the first burn, let the wax melt all the way to the edge of the container. This prevents “tunneling” (where the wick burns straight down the center) and maximizes the candle’s life.
- Ventilate Occasionally: While non-toxic candles produce far fewer emissions, it’s still wise to ensure good air circulation in your home, especially if you burn candles frequently.
- Never Leave Unattended: This is basic fire safety – never leave a burning candle unsupervised, especially around children or pets.
