4 min read

Beyond the Flame: Healthier Candle Choices for a Sustainable Home

November 14, 2024

As the colder months draw in, WLLW explores how consciously-sourced candles can contribute to an inviting, healthy home.
WORDS Elissa Rose

Candles have illuminated and enriched human lives for centuries, finding a place in the heart of diverse cultural and religious traditions around the world. In Hinduism, candles are essential to pooja (prayer rituals), symbolizing purity and inviting divine presence into homes. In Buddhism, candles represent the light of wisdom illuminating ignorance. Candles are an integral part of celebrations, from birthdays to Diwali, in which they signify victory of light over darkness, and Kwanzaa, where each flame represents different principles of African heritage.

Beyond ceremonies and celebrations, candles create a welcoming, peaceful ambiance in everyday settings, aiding in relaxation, meditation and even yoga practices. They serve as a comforting, sensory accent for many, helping to slow down the pace of modern life and set a serene mood. In emergencies, candles provide vital light during power outages, underscoring their timeless role in our lives. Despite today’s electric lighting, candles remain cherished for their beauty, symbolic value and irreplaceable atmosphere.

John Pawson candle holders for When Objects Work. Photo courtesy of Gilbert McCarragher

Why Conventional Candles Aren't the Healthiest Choice

Most mass-produced candles are made from paraffin wax, a by-product of petroleum. When burned, paraffin candles release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as toluene and benzene, which contribute to indoor air pollution. These compounds can also lead to symptoms like headaches, dizziness and allergic reactions, as well as serious neurological effects and cancer. Additionally, VOCs contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which can have wider environmental impacts. Conventional candles also often contain artificial fragrances and dyes, some of which may emit phthalates and other chemicals linked to allergies and even hormone disruption.

Assorted organice beeswax pillar candles by Skär Organics. Photo courtesy Skär Organics

Skär Organics’ hand poured certified organic beeswax votives. Photo courtesy Skär Organics

Hand poured Rope Tapers by Greentree Home made from 100% pure North American beeswax. Photo courtesy of Greentree Home

Wax Atelier’s Mother’s Milk Candle Collection. Photo courtesy Wax Atelier

Wax Atelier’s Goldenrod Candle Collection. Photo courtesy Wax Atelier

Healthier Alternatives

For those who want to enjoy candles without these downsides, there are healthier, sustainable options available that reduce environmental impact and promote better indoor air quality. Brands such as Greentree Home, Wax Atelier and Skär Organics are producing organic beeswax and plant-based wax candles that are not only healthy, but also support the wellbeing of bees in the apiaries they source from.

Choose Safer Waxes:

Soy Wax: Made from soybean oil, soy wax is renewable, biodegradable and burns cleaner than paraffin. It also tends to burn longer, offering a more sustainable option without sacrificing candle longevity.
Beeswax: Known for its slow burn and natural honey aroma, beeswax candles release negative ions, which can help purify the air. Although not vegan-friendly, beeswax is still an excellent sustainable choice for those who appreciate natural materials.
Coconut Wax: Coconut wax is another environmentally-responsible option that burns cleanly and is made from sustainably harvested coconuts. It is often blended with other natural waxes to improve burn quality and longevity.

Consider Wicks:

Cotton or Hemp Wicks: Opt for candles with untreated cotton or hemp wicks, which burn cleanly without releasing heavy metals. Some conventional candles still use metal-core wicks, which may contain lead that can vaporize into the air.
Wooden Wicks: Sustainably sourced wooden wicks offer a unique crackling sound and a clean burn, adding to the aesthetic and sensory experience of the candle without environmental drawbacks.

Opt for Natural Fragrances and Essential Oils:

Instead of synthetic fragrances, look for candles scented with pure essential oils or natural plant extracts. These candles offer aromatherapy benefits without the risk of toxic emissions. Essential oils can provide a gentle, pleasant scent that is kinder to the respiratory system and enhances wellbeing.