Some scented candles can be bad for you if they’re made with harmful ingredients like paraffin wax or phthalates, which can release toxins into the air. Choosing candles made with clean-burning waxes like coconut or soy, and free from dyes ensures a safer, healthier home environment.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’ve just lit your favorite scented candle before you cozy up on the couch. As the warm glow flickers, you feel instantly relaxed—but then a thought crosses your mind: “Are scented candles bad for me?”
It’s a question worth asking because, while candles can set the perfect mood and make your home smell great, some might not be as safe as they seem.
The truth is that not all scented candles are created equally. The ingredients in your candle determine whether it’s adding comfort or hidden risks to your space. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes certain candles toxic, which ones are safest, and how you can make choices that benefit both your family and the planet.
Are Scented Candles Bad for You?
The toxicity of a scented candle boils down to what it’s made of—everything from the wax to the fragrance and the wick can play a role.
Cheap candles, often made from paraffin wax, release harmful chemicals like toluene and benzene when burned. These chemicals are known to contribute to indoor air pollution and may cause irritation to your eyes, nose, or throat.
Fragrance quality is another factor. Many candles use synthetic fragrances containing phthalates, which can disrupt hormones. Add artificial dyes and lead wicks into the mix, and you’re lighting up more than just ambiance—you’re lighting a potential health risk.
Regardless of toxicity, some people might have allergic reactions to scented candles. Some candles can even trigger asthma attacks, according to Cleveland Clinic.
The good news is that not all candles pose these risks. Candles made from natural waxes like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax and scented with high-quality essential oils are far safer options.
What Makes a Candle Toxic?
Wondering how to spot a toxic candle? Here are the key culprits to watch out for:
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax comes from petroleum (think gasoline), and when burned, it releases harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene—both known carcinogens. While these chemicals are present in small amounts, consistent exposure can add up, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
Phthalates
Phthalates are synthetic chemicals used to make fragrances last longer, but they’re linked to hormone disruption according to research from 2020. When you burn a candle with phthalates, they can be released into the air, potentially impacting your endocrine system.
Artificial Dyes
While those vibrant, colored candles look pretty, they often contain synthetic dyes that release toxins when burned. These dyes don’t add any real value to your candle and can contribute to unnecessary indoor pollution.
Lead Wicks
Though banned in the U.S., some imported candles still use lead wicks. When burned, lead can release harmful particles into the air, posing a risk to respiratory health—especially for children and pets.
Pesticides
If a candle is made from non-organic materials, pesticides used during cultivation can linger in the wax. Burning these candles releases pesticide residues into your home, which is the opposite of cozy and safe.
What Are the Healthiest Candles to Burn?
The healthiest candles are made with natural, non-toxic ingredients. Here’s what to look for:
- Natural Wax: Opt for candles made from coconut wax, soy, or beeswax. These burn cleaner and don’t release harmful chemicals.
- Essential Oil Scents: Look for candles scented with essential oils, or fragrances without phthalates. They provide a more natural, therapeutic aroma without the health risks associated with exposure to phthalates.
- Cotton or Wooden Wicks: These wicks are free of metals and burn more cleanly.
- Dye-Free Options: Stick to candles that skip the artificial dyes. They’re better for your air quality and often have a minimalist aesthetic.
At Havilah & Co., we take pride in using a 100% natural coconut wax blend combined with toxin-free fragrances and natural cotton wicks so you can keep your home as healthy as it is cozy.
Smell the Difference While You Make a Difference
Choosing the best scented candle requires more than a quick sniff test. Do a quick scan of the label to ensure it’s made with clean, natural ingredients. (If you can’t figure out what’s inside, that’s usually not a good sign.)
Ready to enjoy the comfort of a candlelit home without compromising your health? At Havilah & Co., we’ve got a whole collection of non-toxic candles that give you up to 40 hours of clean burn time, all while filling your space with luxurious fragrances.
But making the world’s best-smelling candles is just one part of our mission. We also give away 50% of our profits to support individuals in communities that don’t have the resources needed to start and grow a business.
Welcome to Havilah & Co—where every candle tells a story and success is measured by the lives we impact.
