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Non-Toxic Candles Explained + 6 Brands You Need to Try for a Healthier Home
- sophiaduplin
- May 23, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: May 30, 2024
Imagine unwinding after a long day with a beautifully scented candle, only to discover that the candle you’ve chosen is emitting harmful chemicals that are disrupting your hormones, compromising your immune system, leading to respiratory issues, or even causing cancer.
This is a reality for many, but it doesn’t have to be. Non-toxic candles provide a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative to conventional candles, offering a cleaner burn while still delivering the soothing ambiance and delightful aromas we all love.
In this blog, we will explore the benefits of non-toxic candles and spotlight six exceptional brands.
If you don't know me, my name is Sophia and I help you find non-toxic home, beauty and personal care products. You can also find me on TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest. Make sure to subscribe to this blog to get tips on non-toxic living delivered straight to your inbox 3x / week!
Table of Contents:
Skip ahead to non-toxic candle recs here.
What Are The Benefits Of Choosing Non-Toxic Candles?
Traditional candles, especially those made from paraffin wax, can release airborne irritants and harmful chemicals when burned. These substances include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), benzene, toluene, and other toxins that can contribute to indoor air pollution.
Exposure to these chemicals may lead to health issues such as respiratory problems, headaches, and even cancer. Non-toxic candles, on the other hand, are made from natural waxes like soy, coconut, and beeswax, and are scented with pure essential oils or safe synthetic fragrances. They provide a cleaner burn, reducing the risk of indoor air pollution and promoting a healthier living environment.
Using non-toxic candles offers numerous benefits for both health and the environment. Here are some key advantages:
Health Benefits
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Non-toxic candles release minimal pollutants, helping to maintain cleaner indoor air. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or sensitivities.
Reduced Health Risks: By eliminating harmful substances found in traditional candles, such as paraffin wax, synthetic fragrances, and lead-core wicks, non-toxic candles reduce exposure to toxic chemicals. This can lower the risk of respiratory problems, headaches, and other health issues.
Allergy and Asthma Friendly: Non-toxic candles often use natural fragrances or essential oils, which are less likely to trigger allergies or asthma compared to synthetic fragrances. This makes them a safer option for people with these conditions.
Therapeutic Benefits: Essential oils used in non-toxic candles can offer therapeutic benefits, promoting relaxation, stress relief, and mental clarity.
Environmental Benefits
Eco-Friendly Materials: Non-toxic candles are typically made from natural waxes like soy, coconut, and beeswax, which are renewable and biodegradable. This makes them a more sustainable choice compared to paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Using sustainable materials in candle production helps reduce the carbon footprint. For example, soy wax is derived from soybeans, a renewable resource, and beeswax is a natural byproduct of beekeeping.
Biodegradable and Recyclable: Non-toxic candles often come in eco-friendly packaging and use biodegradable materials, which contribute to less environmental waste.
Ethical and Sustainable Production
Ethical Sourcing: Many non-toxic candle producers prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, ensuring that their products align with eco-conscious values.
Support for Local and Artisanal Brands: Choosing non-toxic candles often means supporting smaller, artisanal brands that are committed to using natural ingredients and sustainable practices.
Practical Benefits
Longer Burn Time: Natural waxes like soy and beeswax tend to burn longer than paraffin wax, providing more value and a longer-lasting candle experience.
Cleaner Burn: Non-toxic candles produce less soot and smoke, resulting in a cleaner burn that is less likely to stain walls or ceilings and is easier to clean up.
Switching to non-toxic candles is a simple yet impactful way to improve indoor air quality, reduce health risks, and support environmental sustainability. By choosing candles made from natural waxes, clean-burning wicks, and pure essential oils, you can enjoy the soothing ambiance and delightful aromas of candles without compromising your health or the environment.
How To Identify If A Candle Is Non-Toxic
Identifying whether a candle is non-toxic involves examining several key factors, including the type of wax, the fragrance used, the wick material, and any certifications the candle may have. Here are detailed steps to help you determine if a candle is non-toxic:
1. Check the Wax Type
Soy Wax: Made from soybean oil, soy wax is a renewable resource that burns cleaner and slower than paraffin wax, producing fewer pollutants.
Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural byproduct of beekeeping and is known for its clean burn and subtle honey-like scent. It also releases negative ions that can help purify the air.
Coconut Wax: Derived from coconut oil, this wax is another eco-friendly option that burns cleanly and is often used in high-quality non-toxic candles.
Avoid Paraffin Wax: Paraffin is a petroleum byproduct that releases harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene when burned, contributing to indoor air pollution.
2. Examine the Fragrance & Ingredients
(A good rule of thumb: if ingredients aren't listed, you should avoid it altogether)
Essential Oils: Look for candles scented with 100% pure essential oils. These are natural and do not contain harmful chemicals.
Natural Fragrances: Some candles use natural plant-based fragrances, which are safer alternatives to synthetic fragrances.
Avoid Synthetic Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates and other chemicals that can disrupt hormones and cause health issues.
3. Inspect the Wick
Cotton Wicks: Choose candles with 100% cotton wicks, which do not contain harmful metals and provide a clean burn.
Wooden Wicks: These are another safe option, often untreated and providing a unique burning experience.
Avoid Metal-Core Wicks: Although lead-core wicks have been banned in the U.S. since 2003, some imported candles may still contain them. Metal-core wicks can release harmful heavy metals when burned.
4. Look for Certifications
MADE SAFE® Certification: This certification ensures that the product is made without any harmful chemicals known to harm human health, animals, or ecosystems.
Natural Products Association: This certification indicates that the product meets strict guidelines for natural ingredients and sustainability.
Ecocert: This certification guarantees that the product is made from natural or organic ingredients and adheres to strict environmental standards.
5. Read the Label and Product Information
Ingredient Transparency: Look for brands that disclose all their ingredients on the label or their website. Transparency is a good indicator of a brand's commitment to non-toxic products.
Avoid Ambiguous Claims: Be wary of vague terms like "natural" or "eco-friendly" without specific details or certifications to back them up.
6. Consider the Price Point
Higher Quality: Non-toxic candles often cost more due to the use of high-quality, natural ingredients. Extremely cheap candles are more likely to contain harmful substances.
By paying attention to these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose candles that are safe for your health and the environment. Non-toxic candles made from natural waxes, pure essential oils, and safe wicks provide a cleaner burn and a healthier home atmosphere.
The Best 6 Non-Toxic Candle Brands
Use code: detoxyourdome for 10% off at checkout!
Primally Pure is committed to creating clean-burning candles made from a blend of beeswax and coconut wax. Their candles are scented with organic essential oils, ensuring a non-toxic aroma that boosts the health of your home and brightens your mood. Primally Pure's candles are free from harmful chemicals, parabens, and phthalates, making them a safe choice for any household. Their dedication to transparency and quality is evident in every product they offer.
Popular Primally Pure Non-Toxic Candles:
Warm Citrus Spice Candle
Crisp Smoky Woods Candle
Lavender + Mint Candle
Use code: detoxyourdome for 10% off at checkout!
Fate Naturals offers handcrafted candles made from 100% natural ingredients, including USA-grown soy wax and the highest quality plant-based essential oils. Their candles are free from parabens, phthalates, and carcinogens, ensuring a safe and healthy burn. Fate Naturals' commitment to quality and sustainability makes their candles a great choice for those looking to enhance their home ambiance without compromising on safety.
Popular Fate Naturals Non-Toxic Candles:
Retro Pink- Mama Mama Mama | Non-Toxic Soy Candle
New Mama Non-Toxic Soy Candle
ily to the moon + back | Non-Toxic Soy Candle
Use Code: detoxyourdome for 15% off at checkout!
Fontana Candle Company is renowned for its clean and cozy all-natural candles. Made from a blend of beeswax, coconut oil, and pure essential oils, their candles are free from petroleum byproducts, stabilizers, harmful dyes, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. Fontana Candle Company is the first MADE SAFE® certified candle brand, ensuring that their products are free from any toxins known or suspected to harm human health, animals, or ecosystems. (They also have wax melts if that's more your style).
Popular Fontana Candle Company Non-Toxic Candles:
Lavender Vanilla Tangerine Essential Oil Candle
Pure Vanilla Essential Oil Candle
Cinnamon Orange Clove Candle
Green Koala specializes in eco-luxury, non-toxic candles made from premium coconut wax. Their candles are infused with phthalate-free fragrances and essential oils, and feature lead-free cotton wicks. Green Koala's commitment to sustainability is evident in their zero-waste approach, with candles hand-poured into reusable glass containers. Their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and non-GMO, ensuring a safe and eco-friendly choice for your home.
Popular Green Koala Non-Toxic Products:
Stress Relief 13oz Candle
Blue Hydrangea 13oz Candle
Citrus Burst Zero-Waste Candle
Founded by Michelle Pfeiffer, Henry Rose is a pioneer in creating fine fragrances without compromising on safety. Their candles are formulated using a clean blend of coconut, soy, and vegetable waxes with a 100% cotton wick. Henry Rose is the first brand to create an EWG Verified™ and Cradle to Cradle Certified™ collection, ensuring that every ingredient is rigorously vetted against the strictest standards for health and safety.
Popular Henry Rose Non-Toxic Candles:
Window's Down
Flora Carnivora
Jake's House Candle
Grow Fragrance offers 100% plant-based, non-toxic candles that are safe for both people and pets. Their candles are made from soy wax and are scented with essential oils and natural fragrances. Grow Fragrance is dedicated to transparency and sustainability, ensuring that their products are free from harmful chemicals and are environmentally friendly.
Popular Grow Fragrance Non-Toxic Candles:
Seaside & Citrus Candle
Lavender & Eucalyptus Candle
Citrus & White Sage Candle
Conclusion & Disclaimer
Choosing non-toxic candles is a simple yet impactful way to improve the air quality in your home and promote a healthier living environment. Brands like Primally Pure, Fate Naturals, Fontana Candle Company, Henry Rose, and Grow Fragrance are leading the way in providing safe, clean-burning candles that you can feel good about using. So, the next time you reach for a candle, make the conscious choice to go non-toxic and embrace the benefits of a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable candle experience.
FTC Disclaimer: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of those product links and make a purchase, I’ll receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to continue to make content. I only recommend products that I trust, to the best of my ability, to be non-toxic. This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always read product labels and use as directed. Manufacturers reserve the right at any time to change product ingredients. Thank you for your support!
Medical Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please contact your healthcare physician or a functional medicine practitioner for medical advice.
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