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For centuries, candles have been an essential part of human life, by providing both light and ambiance. However, not all candles are created equal. Most commercial candles can release harmful chemicals into the air, when burned, posing potential health risks. In this guide, we’ll explore the world of non toxic candles and provide you with a list of reliable candle brands that prioritize your health and well-being.
Majority of commercially available candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum production. When you light the candle, paraffin wax releases harmful toxins such as benzene and toluene into the air, which can have adverse effects on our respiratory health.
Moreover, conventional candles are often scented with synthetic fragrances that may contain phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors says MADESAFE.org.
Don’t panic! My philosophy is “now that I know better, I can do better”. I certainly didn’t know better until I met my good friend Lindsey, who has a beautiful candle shop in York, PA. She let me in on all these dirty details about traditional candles.
For me, striving to remove toxins and harmful chemicals from our home, the last thing I want to do is fill my home with these deadly fumes. So let’s discuss some non toxic candle ingredients to look for when purchasing.
Non Toxic Candle Ingredients
- Soy Wax: Candles made from soy wax are a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Soy is a renewable resource, and soy wax candles burn cleanly without emitting harmful chemicals.
- Beeswax: Beeswax candles are another natural alternative. They have a subtle honey scent and purify the air when burned reports the Scottish Bee Company. Additionally, they mention beeswax candles are a great choice for those with allergies or asthma.
- Coconut Wax: Candles made from coconut wax are gaining popularity for their eco-friendliness. They burn cleanly, meaning they don’t produce a black soot, instead emit a pleasant, natural fragrance.
- Essential Oils: Natural essential oils are used for fragrance in non toxic candles, avoiding synthetic fragrances that contain harmful chemicals.
- Cotton or Wood Wicks: Opt for candles with cotton or wood wicks as they burn cleanly and don’t release harmful fumes.
Non Toxic Candles
Ritual and Fancy sold by Made Trade
Ritual and Fancy are exactly the type of candles we are looking for in our search for non toxic candles. These candles are handcrafted, BIPOC owned, USA made, sustainable, and vegan. Made from 100% soy wax with a wood wick. They are scented with pure essential oils and free of phthalates, lead, dyes, parabens and other nasty additives.
For me, what stood out most is definitely the real pressed flowers that make each candle unique. Making you feel closer to nature with each burn.
Another high quality candle comes from the brand Prosperity. Handmade by women refugees in the US, this company is a fair trade certified B corp. Their candles are made up of a soy and coconut blend with pure cotton wicks and 100% essential oils.
I must mention, I love this brands efforts to support gender equality, provide living wages and create an ethical work environment.
This brand is so unique in its approach to candles. It strives to be an eco-friendly alternative to the wasteful candle industry that exists today.
The vessels candles come in are typically thrown in the trash and end up in the landfill (when many times they could be recycled or reused). So instead, Siblings created a candle in 100% compostable packaging that you microwave (yes you read that right) and pour into your own vessel. Let the wax cool for 2 hours and now you have this beautiful candle in your receptacle of choice.
From plant containers to the funky thrifted glass jars you can use practically any vessel to make a candle. Your friends will ask you where you bought it and you can tell them you made it!
Get the whole family involved. This brand turns candles into a fun, hassle free project that allows you to be creative.
This is my sweet friend’s brand. She is the one who introduced me to non toxic candles. Her candles are 100% soy wax with a blend of therapeutic grade essential oils and phthalate free fragrance oils.
She thrifts fun and uncommon vessels that are truly like nothing you will find anywhere else. Not to mention, ten percent of her sales go to charities supporting the local community! A truly inspiring small business.
Hand crafted in the Prescott Mountains of Arizona, Enlighten candles are made from 100% soy wax with zero dyes or additives for a truly clean burn.
Using cotton wicks and phthalate free fragrance and essential oils these candles provide double the scent. This brand can be found online and in many Whole Food stores.
This brand upcycles coconut shells that would otherwise go to waste. Initially starting with candles specifically for outdoor use, these unique candles are made from soy wax using cotton or wood wicks. Their therapeutic grade essential oils like citronella and lemongrass which are a great way to keep bugs away.
When it comes to creating a cozy atmosphere in your home, candles are a perfect choice. They provide the perfect lighting, a relaxed aura and a calming vibe that is unmatched.
By opting for non toxic candles made from natural ingredients and avoiding synthetic fragrances, you can enjoy the ambiance without compromising your health.
While there aren’t many brands out there that will care about our health, there are brands that do. The candle brands mentioned in this guide are just a few examples of companies that prioritize safety and sustainability. I encourage you to do your own research to know which brands to trust.
It’s not about giving up something wonderful like the ambiance of candles but instead finding alternatives that suit our needs without harming our health. Illuminate your space with non toxic candles and breathe easy, knowing you’re taking care of your well-being and the environment.
