Who doesn’t love a good candle? However, not all candles are created equal, and choosing the right candles can have a significant impact on indoor air quality and most importantly overall health. In recent years, there has been growing awareness of the potential dangers associated with burning petroleum-based or fake candles. Natural alternatives like beeswax and soy candles offer a safer and cleaner burning option. Furthermore, if candles can have adverse effects on humans, they can certainly impact our pets health too. Some believe choosing not to burn candles at all is the best choice but if you must this blog will explore the importance of choosing the right candles and provide a guide to “safe” and “unsafe” options. Let’s see how we can keep our homes cozy but still healthy.
Pros and Cons of Candle Choices:
Safe Candles:
1. Beeswax Candles:
- Pros:
- Natural and renewable resource.
- Emit a subtle honey scent.
- Burn cleanly with little to no soot.
- Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other options.
*Shop some beautiful long stick options here: Amazon
2. Soy Candles:
- Pros:
- Made from soybeans, a renewable resource.
- Burn longer and cleaner than paraffin candles.
- Available in a variety of scents and colors.
- Cons:
- Some soy candles may contain additives, so it’s important to choose ones labeled as 100% soy.
Unsafe Candles:
- Paraffin Candles:
- Pros:
- Inexpensive and widely available.
- Offer a variety of scents and colors.
- Cons:
- Made from petroleum by-products, emitting harmful chemicals when burned.
- Produce black soot that can stain walls and furniture.
- Not environmentally friendly.
- Pros:
2. Gel Candles:
- Pros:
- Transparent and decorative.
- Can embed objects like seashells or beads.
- Cons:
- Made from petroleum-based materials, emitting toxic fumes when burned.
- Have been known to crack or explode if not used properly.
Air purifier sensors have also been known to kick up exponentially when artificial and heavily fragranced candles are being burned.
Here is a list of causes of concern:
Artificial candles, particularly those made from petroleum-based paraffin wax, may contain additives and synthetic fragrances that can disrupt hormonal balance when burned. These candles can release phthalates, which are chemicals commonly used as plasticizers and fragrance carriers, into the air. Phthalates have been linked to endocrine disruption, meaning they interfere with the body’s hormonal system by mimicking or blocking the actions of hormones.
Exposure to phthalates has been associated with various health effects, including:
- Hormonal Imbalance: Phthalates can disrupt the normal functioning of hormones in the body, including estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones.
- Developmental and Reproductive Effects: In adults, exposure to phthalates has been associated with reduced fertility, decreased sperm quality, and reproductive disorders.
- Endocrine-Related Disorders: Phthalate exposure has been implicated in the development of endocrine-related disorders which can disrupt the body’s metabolic processes and contribute to the development of chronic diseases over time.
- Thyroid Dysfunction: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development, so disruption of thyroid function can have widespread effects on health.
Choosing the right candles is essential for maintaining indoor air quality, overall health and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals. Opting for natural options like beeswax or soy candles can provide a safer and cleaner burning experience, while avoiding paraffin and gel candles can help minimize health risks and environmental impact. By making informed choices, you can still create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home without compromising on safety or air quality.
So before you buy your next candle make sure you consider these factors when choosing the right candles for your health, fury friends included x
For some extra help purifying your indoor air quality make sure to check out our blog post on: Benefits of Snake Plants in Your Bedroom.
