It’s no secret that candles can make a room smell amazing. But did you know that not all candles are created equal? There are many different types of candles on the market, and not all of them are considered non-toxic by the public and select research papers. These papers and those health-conscious individuals identify certain candles as bad for your health. This blog post will discuss what makes a candle non-toxic based on the opinions and research papers and what you need to look out for when purchasing candles and supplies for candle making.
Research has identified several areas that can cause harm to your health. These include candles made from paraffin wax, metal wicks, and those that use artificial fragrances. Studies are not definitive or conclusive on the matter, so you must use your judgment.
In the article below, we will go through those areas that have been identified as toxic. We will tell you how you can avoid candles that can have a possible negative impact on your health.
Artificial Fragrances
When it comes to candles, artificial fragrances are not always non-toxic. They can be pretty harmful to your health. The government does not regulate many of the chemicals used to create these fragrances. That means that companies can use any chemicals they want in their products without telling the consumer. These chemicals can be released into the air when the candle is burned, and you can inhale them.
There are a few ways to avoid candles with artificial fragrances. The first is to look for candles that are made with essential oils. These are natural oils that come from plants. They are non-toxic and will not release harmful chemicals into the air. The second way to avoid candles with artificial fragrances is to look for ones labelled “fragrance-free.” This means that the candle does not contain any synthetic fragrances.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is a petroleum-based product. It is made from the sludge left over after crude oil is refined. This type of wax is non-renewable and not environmentally friendly. When burned, paraffin candles release chemicals into the air. These chemicals can be harmful to your health. They have been linked to cancer, respiratory problems, and allergies.
However, studies on Paraffin Wax being toxic are non conclusive for several reasons. The 2009 study that is often referenced online has been scrutinised heavily by the European Candle Association that stated the “no reputable scientific study has ever shown and candle wax, including paraffin, to be harmful to human health”.
Furthermore, the association stated that the study “provided no data for review and their conclusions are based on unsupported claims”. This was supported by a study funded by the association that examined all major wax types for 300 toxic chemicals in 2007.
The research presented results that the candle waxes released toxins well below the volumes required to cause human health problems. These studies provide non-conclusive evidence on whether Paraffin Wax is toxic for humans. This means that the use of Paraffin Wax really comes down to personal choice and you will need to form your own conclusions.
There are a few ways to avoid candles made with paraffin wax. The first is to look for candles made with beeswax or soy wax. These types of wax are non-toxic and renewable. They will not release harmful chemicals into the air when burned. The second way to avoid candles made with paraffin wax is to look for ones labelled “paraffin-free.”
Metal Wicks
Metal wicks can be made with lead. When burned, they release lead into the air. Lead is a toxic metal that can be harmful to your health. It has been linked to developmental problems, learning disabilities, and cancer.
There are a few ways to avoid candles with metal wicks. The first is to look for candles with wicks made of cotton or another natural material. The second way to prevent candles with metal wicks is to look for ones labelled “metal-free.”
Non-toxic wax
When it comes to non-toxic candles, there are a few things you need to know. First of all, non-toxic candles are made with natural materials that are safe for you and your family. The most common type of non-toxic candle is made with beeswax. Beeswax is a natural material that has been used for centuries to make candles. It is non-toxic and safe for your home. Another common type of non-toxic candle is made with vegetable wax. Vegetable wax is made from plants and is also non-toxic.
Why switch to non-toxic candles?
There are many reasons to switch to non-toxic candles. The most obvious reason is for your health. If you are concerned about the possible health effects of toxic candles, then switching to non-toxic options is a good idea. This will keep your mind at ease even if the studies are incorrect in what they say. Non-toxic candles will not release harmful chemicals into the air as paraffin candles have been shown to do.
In addition to your health, non-toxic candles are also better for the environment. They are made with natural materials that are biodegradable and renewable. This means that they will not harm the environment when you dispose of them.
Read the candle label.
When looking for non-toxic candles, it’s essential to read the labels. Some candles may say they are non-toxic, but they may not be made with natural materials. If you’re unsure about a candle, it’s always best to contact the manufacturer and ask about the ingredients. You can also look for non-toxic certification labels from organisations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or Green America.
If you are looking for non-toxic candles, another element to check on the label is the type of wax. Look for candles made with beeswax, vegetable wax, or soy wax. These are all non-toxic options that will be safe for you and your family. Avoid candles made with paraffin wax, as they can release harmful chemicals into the air. Stick to natural materials like beeswax and vegetable wax to be safe.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to non-toxic candles, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Avoid those made with paraffin wax, metal wicks, and artificial fragrances. Look for candles made with beeswax, soy wax, or essential oils. Choose candles with wicks made of natural materials like cotton. And finally, check the labels to make sure the candle is non-toxic.
Non-toxic candles are a great way to enjoy the benefits of candles without worrying about your health. They are safe for you and your family, and they can make your home smell amazing. When you’re ready to purchase non-toxic candles, read the labels and contact the manufacturer if you have any questions. You can find the perfect non-toxic candles for your home with some research. Happy shopping!
Do you have any tips on how to avoid toxic candles?? Share your thoughts in the comments below!