Free Shipping within the US on orders over $100
You've finally settled in after a hard day's work. It's time to set the mood and relax a bit, so you fire up a candle. As much as we love them, the bitter truth is that our candles may not be as harmless as we first thought. That's right, those fragrant vanilla, lavender, and cinnamon candles could secretly be doing more harm than good.
Candles are practically a fixture in the average American home. Nine out of ten candle users say they use them to make a room feel comfortable or cozy. Yet and still, we have to consider what we're inhaling.
Here's what's interesting—the jury's still kinda out on just how unhealthy scented candles are. But there's enough smoke (pun intended) to warrant a closer look. We'll investigate any potential dangers in one of our favorite home decor and relaxation pieces.
In order to start talking about potential health hazards, we’ve got to shine some light on what's actually inside those scented candles that you come to love dearly. There's more to them than wax and a pleasant aroma. The main components are:
Understanding these basic building blocks is the first step in unraveling the potential health impacts of scented candles. So let's dive deeper and see what the research reveals.
The mood is everything when it comes to picking your favorite candle to burn. However, did you know—when we're speaking on health—that the type of wax you used can make a world of difference? Some candles are posing more of a threat to you than you'd ever imagined.
The most notorious troublemaker in the world of candles is Paraffin wax. It's a cheap petroleum-based wax that is easy to work with, but when it is lit, it has the potential to release some unwanted guests into your home's air – volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short.
VOCs are definitely unwanted houseguest that barge in wreaking havoc on your home's air. The most notable culprits are toluene and benzene which have been linked to a host of health issues like headaches and nausea to respiratory problems and even potential long-term effects such as cancer.
Luckily, burning a single paraffin candle on occasion isn't likely to harm you or cause any discomfort.
But if you're a candle enthusiast with a whole collection burning regularly, or you tend to light them up in a small, stuffy room, those VOC levels can get out of hand and I mean quickly. And that's when things start to get a little dicey, especially for folks with sensitivities or respiratory conditions.
We’re fortunate to have practical alternatives to this candle wax that could be potentially wreaking havoc on our respiratory systems.
Soy wax, derived from soybean oil, and beeswax, crafted by busy honeybees, are generally considered safer options. They burn cleaner and release fewer VOCs, making them a popular choice for health-conscious candle lovers.
Even these "natural" waxes aren't completely innocent. They can still release some VOCs, albeit in smaller amounts. And the fragrance itself, whether natural or synthetic, can also be a source of VOCs and other potentially harmful chemicals.
So, what's a candle lover to do? Keep in mind that the wax you choose can significantly impact the air you breathe. Opting for soy or beeswax candles is a step in the right direction, but it's only part of the puzzle.
The enticing aroma of a scented candle might transport you to a lavender field or a cozy cabin in the woods.
But beneath that scent lies a potential minefield of hidden dangers. The fragrances used in candles, whether derived from natural essential oils or made in a lab, can release VOCs and other not-so-friendly chemicals like phthalates into your air.
These chemical compounds have been linked to a host of health concerns, from disrupting hormones to triggering allergies and even exacerbating asthma. Now, don't toss out all your candles just yet. The amount of these chemicals released from a single candle is usually quite small, akin to a whisper in a crowded room.
The trouble is, fragrance recipes are often shrouded in secrecy. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to know exactly what you're inhaling each time.
Think of it this way: Would you eat a slice of cake if you didn't know all the ingredients? Okay, maybe you would. But, you shouldn't. It might taste delicious, but there could be hidden allergens or unhealthy additives in there! The same principle applies to scented candles. Though the fragrance might smell divine, it could contain a myriad of chemicals with potentially unpleasant side effects.
Remember when lead wicks were a thing? Thankfully, those are mostly banned now. But some imported candles may still contain lead or other metals in the wick, which can release harmful particles into the air when burned. It's always a good idea to check the label and avoid candles with metal-core wicks.
Should you be worried about that vanilla-scented pillar candle slowly poisoning you? The answer isn't a simple yes or no.
Truth be told, a single scented candle flickering away on your nightstand probably won't cause any immediate harm. Like we mentioned earlier, the amount of VOCs and other chemicals released from one candle is usually pretty minimal. It's like taking a tiny sip of soda – not exactly healthy, but not going to send you to the hospital either.
However, here's where things get a bit more complicated:
In the end, it's all about weighing the risks and benefits, and making informed choices that work for you. If you're a die-hard candle lover, don't despair! There are ways to enjoy your favorite scents while minimizing the potential downsides.
Alright, candle aficionados, we hear you! The thought of giving up that cozy glow and those delightful scents might feel like a personal attack. But fear not, there's no need to banish candles from your life entirely. With a little knowledge and some simple precautions, you can still enjoy your favorite fragrances while keeping your home a healthy haven.
Here's how to strike that perfect balance:
Not all candles are created equal. When you're shopping for your next fragrant treasure, be a savvy consumer.
Look for candles made with natural waxes like soy or beeswax. These options burn cleaner and release fewer VOCs than their paraffin counterparts. And when it comes to fragrance, opt for those scented with essential oils rather than synthetic concoctions.
Take a peek at the label and see if the brand discloses all the ingredients. Transparency is key, so if you're unsure what's lurking in that jar, it's best to move on. There are plenty of reputable brands out there that proudly share their recipes, giving you peace of mind.
It might seem obvious, but good ventilation is crucial when burning candles. Open a window, crack a door, or turn on a fan to get that air flowing. Think of it as giving those VOCs an escape route, so they don't hang around and cause trouble.
Even with cleaner candles, it's wise to practice moderation. Don't burn them for hours on end, and avoid lighting up a whole bunch at once. A single candle can usually fill a room with its lovely aroma without overwhelming your senses (or your air quality).
There are plenty of alternatives to traditional candles that can still bring good vibes. Reed diffusers offer a subtle fragrance that lasts long without any flames involved.
Essential oil diffusers disperse the therapeutic benefits of essential oils into the air, minus the smoke. And for those who simply crave the warm glow of a flame, fragrance-free candles made with natural waxes are a great option.
By following these tips, you can transform your candle habit from a potential health hazard into a guilt-free pleasure. You gotta find that sweet spot where you can chill in the ambiance of your favorite scents without compromising your well-being.
This may not have ended the way you wanted because no one likes to be told that something they love could be potentially harmful. However, you have to stay safe!
The debate around the health effects of scented candles is ongoing. Research is constantly evolving, and new information may come to light. Stay informed, listen to your body, and choose the options that make you feel good – both physically and mentally. Remember, it's your home, your health, and your choice.
For now, be wise and choose candles that have all the ingredients clearly listed so you can make an informed decision.