As consumers become more aware of the harmful chemicals found in everyday products, the demand for non-toxic candles is on the rise. While conventional candles may smell good, they often contain synthetic fragrances and paraffin wax, which release harmful chemicals into the air and can negatively impact human health.
One alternative to conventional ones is beeswax candles, made from natural ingredients that burn cleanly without releasing harmful chemicals. Soy candles are another popular option, made from renewable resources and often scented with natural fragrances.
Toxic Chemicals Found in Traditional Candles
However, over the years, I’ve realized that not all candles labeled as “natural” are created equal. Some may contain harmful chemicals, such as lead wicks or synthetic fragrances.
Turning down gifts from family members has not been fun or easy, but educating my family on what non-toxic ingredients to look out for when purchasing candles has been critical in helping them choose the right products for themselves or me.
While non-toxic candles may be more expensive than conventional candles, the benefits to human health and the environment are worth the investment. So, the next time you’re in the market for a candle, consider choosing one of the 10 non-toxic options for a healthier home environment.
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Which ingredients in candles are toxic?
Some candle ingredients, such as lead wicks, synthetic fragrances, and paraffin wax, can be toxic. When burned, paraffin wax can release harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene, known to cause respiratory and other health problems.
Synthetic fragrances may also contain phthalates linked to hormone disruption and other health issues. It’s essential to read labels and their ingredient list carefully and choose candles made with natural ingredients, like beeswax or soy wax, and scented with natural fragrances to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals.
5 Things to look for when purchasing clean candles
Not all of these are a requirement but it’s something to think about when you’re considering what type of candles you’re purchasing for your home.
- Natural Ingredients: Look for candles made with natural ingredients like beeswax or soy wax, which are renewable resources and burn cleanly without releasing harmful chemicals. Avoid ones like paraffin candles.
- Natural Fragrances: Choose candles scented with natural fragrances, such as essential oils, instead of synthetic fragrances that may contain harmful chemicals like phthalates.
- Lead-Free Wicks: Make sure the candle has a lead-free wick to avoid exposure to this harmful substance when burned.
- Non-Toxic Labels: Look for candles that are labeled as non-toxic or free of harmful chemicals to ensure that you are getting a truly clean candle.
- Sustainable Packaging: Choose candles that come in sustainable packaging, such as recyclable or biodegradable materials, to reduce your environmental impact.
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Best Non-Toxic Candles to Buy All Year
Frenshe Reset Candle
The Being Frenshe Coconut & Soy Wax Reset Candle with Essential Oils in Cashmere Vanilla is a clean-burning candle infused with pure essential oils and upcycled vanilla.
With up to 45 hours of burn time, this cruelty-free and vegan candle is sulfate, paraben, and phthalate-free, making it a safe and clean choice for your self-care routine. Enjoy the soothing scent of this coconut and soy wax candle and enhance your well-being with MoodScience Scent Technology™.
Grove Co. Relaxing Wild Lavender & Blue Sage
Good news for those looking for a clean-burning, eco-friendly candle. Made with a plant-based, paraffin-free soy wax blend and 100% natural fragrance derived from essential oils and other plant-based ingredients, this candle offers over 40 hours of burn time.
Unlike paraffin wax candles, this candle is always free of paraffins, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Enjoy the calming blend of lavender, sage, and clove with peace of mind, knowing you’re making a sustainable choice for your home.
Fontana Candle Co. Palo Santo & Pink Grapefruit
Their essential oil candles are made with 100% natural Palo Santo oils, complemented with coconut oil and beeswax to create a clean and pure aroma that will refresh your space.
With wood wicks and natural scents, this candle is made safe and non-toxic with certified non-toxic ingredients, making it the perfect choice for those who care about their health and well-being. Illuminate your space with the soothing and uplifting aroma of Palo Santo, and enjoy a clean-burning, eco-friendly candle that will enhance your well-being.
Soy Candle – Woods
Made with 100% soy wax, this candle burns up to 25 hours and has a great scent throw, filling your living spaces with the comforting aromas of cedar and balsam.
Not only do natural candles like these brighten up your home, but they are better choice for the environment.
Spiced Organic Candles-Basic Bee Candle Co
Cozy up with the Spiced Chai candle, scented with natural essential oils and made in small batches with yellow local beeswax and organic virgin coconut oil for a clean burning experience.
With notes of patchouli, baking spices, and sweet orange, this non-toxic candle burns pure essential oils only, with no fragrance oils of any kind, making it a better choice for anyone sensitive to synthetic fragrances and trying to live a toxin-free life.
Hemlock Park-Lychee Mangosteen
The Naturally Made Coconut Wax Candle is a beautifully scented seasonal candle handcrafted in small batches in the United States using eco-friendly coconut wax.
With a crackling wood wick that adds a cozy touch, this candle features herbaceous and fresh aromatherapy notes of lychee, mangosteen, white peach, passion fruit, mandarin orange, dragon fruit, and yuzu citron, made with essential oils.
Candle Cashmere Plum – Chesapeake Bay Candle
Indulge in luxury candles with the fine fragrance inspired accord of plum nectar, peony petals, and red wine, complemented by pink peppercorn and cedarwood. This soy wax blend candle is a safer alternative, infused with pure essential oils and free from harmful ingredients.
With 100% recyclable packaging in partnership with TerraCycle, you can enjoy this beautifully scented candle knowing it’s a safe and sustainable choice.
Scentsational-Storm Candle
Switch to non-toxic candles with a clear conscience with the White Wax Coconut + Beeswax blend candle. The fragrance profile of fresh rain, tropical storm breezes, and grassy undertones make it a popular choice.
With a lead-free cotton wick and 100% cotton 3-wick, this candle is a good idea for anyone looking for eco-friendly candles.
