Unfortunately, commercial scented candles often times are a huge source of indoor pollution, and put off chemicals that are considered just as dangerous as second-hand smoke.
The majority of candles are made of paraffin wax which creates highly toxic benzene and toluene when burned (both are known carcinogens). In fact, the toxins released from paraffin candles are the same as those found in diesel fuel fumes (1).
Dr. Jerome O. Nriagu a professor of environmental chemistry at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, measured the lead released from 14 brands of candles. He found that burning four metal-wick candles for two hours can result in airborne lead concentrations that pose a threat to human health (2).
“Besides breathing lead fumes, children can be exposed to even more lead that is deposited on the floor, furniture, and walls because they often put their hands in their mouths.”
Dr. Jerome O. Nriagu
Although not all candles cause hazardous pollution, labels will not tell us which ones are safe. Here are some practical things to look out for if you continue to use candles (2):
Make sure there is not any metal wiring inside the wick (pure paper or cotton is best)
Keep the wicks trimmed to one-quarter inch for more complete combustion
Keep candles out of drafts as wind blows more toxins into the air
Stay away from slow-burning candles with additives; instead opt for pure beeswax candles
Don’t use candles in jars when the candle leaves a soot ring on the jars lip as this could be an indication of lead dust
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Fontana Candle Co: ALEX15 for 15% off
Safe Scent Shop: THENATURALMINDEDMAMA for 10% off
Sources:
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