Are Your Candles Killing You? The Truth About Hidden Toxins in Candles

Okay… so the title might be a bit dramatic. But let’s address a question no one really wants to ask.

Are candles bad for you?

Candles have long been associated with relaxation, ambiance, and creating a cozy home atmosphere. However, many people are unaware that those comforting and amazing candles harbor hidden toxins.

Toxins that are negatively impacting your health and your family’s health.

In this blog post, we will look at the dangerous ingredients commonly found in candles and the problems they are causing in our homes and for our health.

Just a heads up, this page may contain Amazon, Etsy, and other affiliate links. We may make a small commission from any clicks at no expense to you. Head over to our disclosure policy for more information.

But don’t worry!

I’ll suggest candle alternatives to keep your home smelling fresh and welcoming without sacrificing your health.

The Ingredients in Standard Candles

Standard candles are typically made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. Paraffin wax is proven to release harmful toxins when burned – like benzene and toluene.

Not to mention, those candles are filled with synthetic fragrance oils, colorants, and lead wicks. All of which pile on the health issues.

1. Lead wicks: While lead wicks are now banned in many countries, older or low-quality candles may still use them. When burned, lead wicks release toxic lead fumes that harm your reproductive health and fertility. Inhalation of lead fumes has been linked to neurological and developmental issues, cardiovascular problems, and kidney damage.
2. Paraffin wax: Paraffin is a petroleum-based wax commonly used in candles. When burned, paraffin wax releases those dreaded benzene and toluene toxins. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals negatively affects fertility and overall health – we’ll go into detail below.
3. Fragrance chemicals: Candles with synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates, known endocrine disruptors meaning they can interfere with hormone balance and affect fertility. In addition to their reproductive effects, phthalates have been associated with other health concerns, such as respiratory issues, allergies, and skin irritations. They may also contribute to the development of asthma and other respiratory conditions.
4. Artificial dyes: Some candles use synthetic dyes to achieve vibrant colors, but these dyes may contain harmful chemicals. Even small amounts of exposure to these chemicals can have detrimental effects on reproductive health. Exposure to these chemicals may lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and potential long-term health effects.

Health Issues From Burning Candles

1. Respiratory Problems: Benzene and toluene are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be released into the air when candles from paraffin wax are burned. Inhaling these VOCs can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of asthma or allergies.
2. Allergic Reactions: Fragrance oils commonly used in scented candles can contain benzene, toluene, and other potentially irritating substances. These chemicals can trigger allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive or allergic to certain fragrances, causing symptoms like skin rashes, itching, watery eyes, or nasal congestion.
3. Indoor Air Pollution: Burning candles made from paraffin wax can contribute to indoor air pollution. Releasing benzene and toluene into the air can lower air quality and increase the concentration of potentially harmful chemicals in enclosed spaces, which may have long-term effects on overall health.
4. Toxicity and Carcinogenic Potential: Several health organizations, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), classify benzene as a known human carcinogen. Prolonged exposure to benzene has been associated with an increased risk of leukemia, lung cancer, and other cancers. Toluene is considered a potential developmental toxin and may adversely affect fetal development if exposed during pregnancy.
5. Fertility Issues & Hormonal Disruption: Some candles, particularly those containing synthetic fragrances, may contain phthalates. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone balance in the body. Hormonal imbalances can affect fertility by disrupting the menstrual cycle or interfering with reproductive processes.

Before you look at your stash of Bath and Body Works candles and panic, the risks associated with benzene and toluene from burning candles are generally considered low when they are used in moderation and in well-ventilated areas. However, individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or sensitivities may be more susceptible to the effects of these chemicals.

But even if the risk is low, are these toxins really something you want to be regularly inviting into your home?

Toxic Candle Companies to Avoid

Certain candle companies, including well-known brands like Bath and Body Works and Yankee Candle, have been criticized for using potentially toxic ingredients.

It’s important to keep in mind that the specific formula used in every candle can vary, and not all candles from these companies necessarily contain toxins. HOWEVER, most do.

You can always look at the ingredient list or contact the company for information about their candle ingredients.

1. Bath & Body Works: Some Bath & Body Works candles have been criticized for containing paraffin wax, synthetic fragrances, and dyes that may release toxins such as benzene and toluene when burned.
2. Yankee Candle: Similar to Bath & Body Works, certain Yankee Candle products may use paraffin wax, synthetic fragrances, and dyes that can potentially emit harmful substances during burning.
3. Jo Malone: Jo Malone candles have been known to contain paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, which may have the same concerns regarding toxic emissions when burned.
4. Voluspa: While Voluspa offers a variety of candle options, some of their products use paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, which can potentially release harmful substances into the air.
5. Diptyque: Diptyque candles have gained popularity for their luxurious scents, but it’s worth noting that some of their candles may use paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances.
6. Capri Blue: Capri Blue candles, known for their signature volcano scent, may contain paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, which could have potential health implications when burned.
7. Chesapeake Bay Candle: While Chesapeake Bay Candle promotes their use of natural soy wax, some of their scented candles may still contain synthetic fragrances and dyes that could pose concerns when burned.
8. DW Home: DW Home candles offer a wide range of scents, but certain products may use paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, which may release toxins during burning.
9. Village Candle: Village Candle offers an assortment of candle options, and while they do not explicitly disclose their ingredient list, some products may contain paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances.
10. Colonial Candle: While Colonial Candle offers a variety of scents and styles, it’s important to review the specific product ingredients as some may contain paraffin wax and synthetic additives.

The presence of potential toxins can vary across different candle lines and scents within each brand. If you still want to buy from these companies, read the product labels, research specific lines, or contact the candle companies directly for detailed information about their candle formulations and any potential toxins present.

I know this news might be disappointing to all my fellow candle-loving mamas out there. I was not too happy, myself when I found out Bath and Body Works candles made the list. But for me, keeping toxins out of my home outweighs the lovely scent of burning candles.

Plus, there are some great candle alternatives!

Healthy Candle Alternatives

So, do healthy candles exist?

Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to standard candles. Natural wax options like soy, beeswax, and coconut wax are becoming increasingly popular. These alternatives are derived from renewable resources, burn cleaner and do not release those harmful chemicals into the air.

Beeswax candles, in particular, emit negative ions when burned, which can help purify the air.

Purifying the air instead of pumping carcinogens into it sounds like a better option to me—Beeswax candle benefits for the win.

The Best Toxin Free Candles

Here are 10 candle companies known for their commitment to using natural ingredients and avoiding paraffin wax, lead wicks, fragrance chemicals, and artificial dyes.

1. P.F. Candle Co.
2. Aire Candle Company
3. Brooklyn Candle Studio
4. The Bath and Wick Shop
5. Red Barn Candle Company also on Etsy
6. ECOYA
7. Seventh Avenue Apothecary
8. Lulu Candles
9. 906 Candle Company
10. Root Candles

These companies sell all natural candles by using alternative waxes like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax, as well as natural essential oils for scent. They strive to create candles free from harmful additives, making natural candles non toxic so they are safer and healthier options for your home.

Again, it’s always a good idea to review each company’s specific ingredients and practices – some formulas may vary across different candle lines or scents.

Better safe than sorry when it comes to toxins in the home!

Making Your Own Candles

For those who prefer a hands-on approach, making your own organic natural candles with essential oils can be a fulfilling and safe alternative. You have complete control over the ingredients by using natural wax, lead-free wicks, and essential oils for scent.

To make your own candles you’ll need some supplies:

1. Wax: Choose a wax that suits your preferences, such as soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax. The amount of wax will depend on the size and number of candles you plan to make.
2. Wicks: Select appropriate wicks for your candles – I recommend cotton wicks as they provide the cleanest burn. Make sure they are lead-free and designed for the type of wax you are using. Pre-tabbed wicks are convenient, as they come with a metal tab at the base for easy placement.
3. Containers: Decide on the containers or molds you want to use for your candles. These can be glass jars, tins, tea light cups, or specialized candle molds. I personally like these frosted glass jars with bamboo lids – they have a classy look to them.
4. Fragrance oils or essential oils: If you want scented candles, choose high-quality (yes, the quality matters) essential oils in your preferred scents. Ensure that the oils are safe for candle-making and suitable for the wax type you are using.
5. Heat-resistant containers and equipment: Have heat-resistant containers or a double boiler to melt the wax safely. A pouring pitcher or a heat-resistant measuring cup can also be useful for pouring the melted wax.
6. Thermometer: Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the melted wax. This helps ensure it cools to the appropriate pouring temperature for optimal results.
7. Stirring utensil: A dedicated heat-resistant spoon or stirring stick is handy for mixing the wax and incorporating essential oils evenly.
8. Adhesive or wick stickers: These stickers are used to secure the wicks to the bottom of the containers before pouring the wax.

Essential Oil Candle Recipe

1. Prepare your container: Clean and dry your chosen container. If using a wick sticker, place it at the center of the container’s bottom. Attach the wick to the sticker and ensure that it stands upright.
2. Measure the wax: Determine the amount of wax needed to fill your container. If you bought a container specific to candle making it should come with a recommended wax amount. Or follow a general guideline of using approximately 1 ounce (28 grams) of wax per 1 inch (2.5 cm) of container diameter.
3. Melt the wax: Using a double boiler or a heat-proof container placed in a saucepan with water, melt the wax over medium heat. Monitor the temperature using a thermometer, and heat the wax until it reaches the recommended melting point for the type of wax you’re using (Soy and coconut wax:160°F/71°C) (Beeswax: 145°F/63°C).
4. Add essential oils: Once the wax has melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly (around 135°F/57°C). Add your chosen essential oil(s) to the melted wax. For fragrance strength, start with approximately 1 ounce (30 mL) of essential oil per pound (450 grams) of wax. Adjust the amount based on personal preference and the specific essential oil’s potency.
5. Stir the mixture: Gently stir the wax and essential oil mixture for a few minutes to ensure even distribution of the fragrance.
6. Pour the wax: Carefully pour the scented wax into the prepared container, ensuring the wick remains centered. Hold the wick upright using a clothespin or wick holder placed across the container’s top.
7. Let the candle cool and set: Allow the candle to cool at room temperature undisturbed. This process may take a few hours, depending on the size of the container and the ambient temperature.
8. Trim the wick: Once the candle has completely hardened, trim the wick to approximately ¼ inch (0.6 cm) to ensure a clean burn.
9. Enjoy!

When creating a cozy atmosphere in our homes, it’s crucial to be mindful of the candles we burn. Even if you decide you just can’t give up your Yankee or Bath and Body Works candles, maybe only burn them a few times a month in a large room with the windows open? Every little step in the right direction counts.

By understanding the potential dangers associated with standard candles and opting for natural alternatives or making our own, we can reduce exposure to harmful toxins and create a healthier living environment.

Whether you support reputable candle companies that prioritize safety or embark on the DIY candle-making journey, let’s prioritize our health while enjoying the comfort and nostalgia that candles can bring our lives.

Happy (and healthy) burning!

Jess