Non-Toxic Candles: What Are Your Options?
Written by: Naomi Middleton
I thought it would be fun to share what I have learned about candles over the years and a little bit of the story behind Acacia Accents. It all started with candles. I’ve always loved candles! And for years, I would buy a new candle almost every time that I went to the store. However, I started reading articles that talked about how bad candles were for you because of the toxic ingredients in them. I also realized how much money I was spending on candles - which made me start to wonder if I should be burning them.
After a ton of research and experimenting, I was pleasantly surprised to find that there are many natural candle options. I started making natural soy candles in my kitchen - and I loved the results. After a few months (in the fall of 2017), I decided it would be fun to try to sell them on Etsy. My main goal was to provide a simple and natural candle that would look great in any space. Not only did customers love the simple look of the candles but the simple and natural ingredients.
Natural candles are usually quite a bit more expensive but they are definitely worth the investment. Not only do they burn so much longer but they are so much better for you. Here are a few things that I have learned about candles over the years.
Common Toxins in Candles
Many candles do contain many harmful toxins that are dangerous to people and animals. I have listed some of the more common toxins found in many candles below. If your candles contain any of these ingredients, then the candles you are burning are bad for you.
Paraffin Wax: One of the most common toxins found in many candles is paraffin wax. Paraffin wax is a mixture of chemicals that are byproducts of the petroleum production process. Not only is it found in many candles but it is also found in many beauty products. When burned paraffin wax will release many harmful chemicals into the air. Paraffin wax is the main culprit for large amounts of soot around the rim of candles. Or even worse soot on the ceiling of your home.
Synthetic Fragrances: Another culprit for candle toxins is fragrances. Many times the fragrances that are used to make candles contain a lot of dangerous chemicals. These chemicals make candles smell stronger. One of the worst chemicals that many fragrances contain is phthalates. Surprisingly, phthalates are used in many household products. The CDC found that phthalates have been linked to many different health problems.
Lead Wicks: Lead wicks are not as common anymore. However, once in a while we will still see a wick that is made with lead or another kind of toxic metal.
Natural Alternatives
Even though many candles contain toxic chemicals, it is possible to find candles that are natural and clean-burning. Natural candles tend to be more expensive because they are made with natural and high-quality ingredients. However, an expensive candle does not mean it is a natural candle. There are some really expensive candles that still contain paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances. The best way to ensure that you are burning natural candles is to check the ingredients in the candles. Smaller businesses tend to be more open and transparent about the ingredients in their candles. Here are some key things to look for.
Natural Wax: One of the most important things to look for in candles is that they are made with100% Natural Wax (like Soy or Bees Wax). We personally prefer soy wax. Not only is soy better for the environment because it is a natural resource but it also burns 50% longer than candles made with other waxes. Candles made with 100% soy wax also produce little to no black soot when burned.
Essential Oil Fragrances: The most natural type of fragrance is essential oils. Buying candles scented with essential oils is a great way to ensure that the fragrances in your candle are natural. It is important to note that candles scented with only essential oils have a much lighter fragrance throw. Also, some essential oils are not safe to burn. Thus, many companies (like ours) use a mix of essential oils and natural fragrances in our candles.
Phthalate-Free Fragrances: Another important thing to look for when purchasing candles is phthalate-free fragrances. Even though 100% essential oils are great, research has shown that certain essential oils will have little to no fragrance throw if used by themselves in candles. Also, natural candle fragrances are specifically formulated to be burned in candles. So, sometimes they are actually safer and more natural than essential oils. The most important thing to look for is that the fragrances are phthalate-free.
So in conclusion, even though many candles are bad for your health and environment, there are candles that are natural and safe for your home. It is so important to take the time to look at the ingredients in the candles you buy. A high-quality candle is definitely worth the investment.