Why Are Candles So Bad For You?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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“Evidence also shows that scented candles release VOCs and particulate matter into the air , including formaldehyde and benzene,” chemicals that are known to cause cancer, according to the CDC. “This is because the artificial fragrance is derived from petrochemicals [chemicals derived from petroleum],” he says.

How bad are scented candles for you?

Commonly emitted VOCs related to the scent in candles include formaldehyde, petroleum distillates, limonene, alcohol and esters. These harmful chemicals can cause health problems ranging from headaches, dizziness and allergy symptoms to asthma attacks, respiratory tract infections and even cancer .

Why are candles bad for you?

Burning candles releases volatile organic compounds and particulate matter into the air . Particulate matter is a mixture of extremely small liquid droplets and particles that can enter your lungs. There’s concern that extended exposure to particulate matter can lead to heart and lung problems.

Are Bath & Body Works candles toxic?

Bath & Body Works candles have been thoroughly tested to make sure that they are safe for sale and use. They meet or exceed all industry standards, so they are safe to burn in your home . There are some concerns about paraffin wax, which is used in Bath & Body Works candles, releasing toxic chemicals when burned.

How do you know if a candle is toxic?

Rub white paper on the wick of an un-burnt candle , if the wick leaves a gray pencil-like mark there’s lead in it, if there’s no gray you’re good to go. Claim 2: Candle wax is made from harmful chemicals that are released when burned.

Why Yankee candles are bad?

Burning candles releases volatile organic compounds and particulate matter into the air . Particulate matter is a mixture of extremely small liquid droplets and particles that can enter your lungs. There’s concern that extended exposure to particulate matter can lead to heart and lung problems.

Is it bad to breathe in candles?

Anyone who burns a scented candle, or is near a scented candle, could be a risk of inhaling the particles emitted. The chemicals released from paraffin candles can be especially harmful to people with respiratory conditions , such as asthma.

Which candles are not toxic?

  • Grow Fragrance Candles. SHOP NOW AT Grow Fragrance. ...
  • Slow North Candles. SHOP NOW AT Slow North. ...
  • Brooklyn Candle Studio Candles. SHOP NOW AT Brooklyn Candle Studio. ...
  • Pure Plant Home Candles. SHOP NOW AT Pure Plant Home. ...
  • Keap Candles. SHOP NOW AT Keap. ...
  • Heretic Candles.

What ingredients to avoid in candles?

Candles made from paraffin are suspected to release toxic chemicals including toluene and benzene . Benzene is a known carcinogen and toluene is linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity.

Are Yankee candles toxic 2020?

Yankee Candles Info

According to the company: They do not use lead wicks . All of their wicks are made from pure cotton and are thus completely safe. ... A direct call to the company confirmed that Yankee uses refined paraffin wax in their candles.

Why are Bath and Body Works candles toxic?

Not just fragrance, but candles made from petroleum/paraffin emit toxic fumes into your home ! ... Actually, lead core wicks were banned in 2003 so “lead free” on the label of any candle you find in a store is really just a marketing tactic. Some candles still have metal cores, so you want to look for “cotton wick”.

Are Bath and Body Works candles worth it?

You just can’t beat the classic three-wick candle from Bath and Body Works. They are reliable, they consistently produce an even burn and, most important, they smell delicious across the board. ... These candles don’t skimp on scent quality; their smells don’t slap you in the face when you walk into a room.

Why do Bath and Body Works candles burn so fast?

Below are the two main reasons why three wick candles burn faster. 3 wick candles tend to be much larger in volume than a candle with fewer wicks . More wax volume will require a larger volume container, and larger volume containers will need additional wicks in order to burn the candle evenly.

What is the cleanest burning candle?

  • Are made from 100% beeswax, vegetable-based waxes, or soy.
  • Feature wicks made from cotton.
  • Have 100% essential oils for fragrance.

Do candles clean the air?

Beeswax candles clean the air by releasing negative ions into the air which bind with toxins and help remove them from the air.

Is it safe to burn a candle in a closed room?

You should never leave the candle burning in a room that is fully closed off . ... If a candle is left burning in an enclosed space, there will be enough carbon monoxide built up in the room to potentially cause some serious health issues.

Maria Kunar
Author
Maria Kunar
Maria is a cultural enthusiast and expert on holiday traditions. With a focus on the cultural significance of celebrations, Maria has written several blogs on the history of holidays and has been featured in various cultural publications. Maria's knowledge of traditions will help you appreciate the meaning behind celebrations.