All the information and material available for candles and candle making may feel overwhelming, but it is important to consider how a candle works, how it is made, and the source of the material. We can then use this information to help us in selecting candles and burning them safely.
In Part II of this series, we looked into how a candle works – how it burns. All candles produce soot as the result of incomplete combustion. The heat of a candle will incinerate some of the dust and other harmful airborne particles. But, as a result of the combustion process, particularly pyrolysis or the thermal decomposition of the fuel, can release substances such as carbon dioxide, water vapour, smoke, and other chemical and volatile organic compounds. The amount of soot or chemicals released can be affected by the presence of fragrances, colours, and other additives.
Nearly all fragrance ingredients and many colourants are volatile organic compounds. Many waxes are processed using volatile organic compounds, such as hexane, which may remain in the final product.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic compounds that contain carbon and easily become vapours or gases at room temperature. They can be naturally occurring and are found in all living things.
They can also be man-made and used as an ingredient and are used in many products that we use, including automotive fuels and other petroleum-based products, chemical solvents, building materials, office equipment, and craft materials. They are found in paints, varnishes, wood preservatives, aerosol sprays, moth repellents, air fresheners, pesticides, wax, cosmetics, cleaning and disinfecting products, and more. These compounds are emitted from the products when they are being manufactured, used, and sometimes even when stored.
Some VOCs may have no known effect on health while, while others are highly toxic and known carcinogens. The exact effect depends on the level and length of exposure, and the nature the particular VOC. Health effects can range from irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; headaches; dizziness; loss of coordination; and nausea to visual disorders; memory impairment; damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system; and cancer.
Because all candles produce soot, that means that there is no such thing as a “healthy” candle, just healthier options.
In Part IV, V, VI, VII, and VIII of this series, we looked into various types of waxes. Now, we will overview some of the information to help in choosing the right candle.
Choosing the Candle
Paraffin wax is a petroleum-derived wax that must go through extensive refining and then texturizing or hardening to make it ready for use in candles. The process involves the use of chemicals such as industrial bleach, which can create toxic compounds known as dioxins, as well as chemicals such as acrolein that have been shown to result in respiratory tract irritation and DNA damage. The most fully refined paraffin wax still contains a percentage of oil, about 0.5%. Paraffin wax is also non-renewable and is not biodegradable due to petroleum by-products and additives. For these reasons paraffin wax is not recommended.
100% pure, unbleached beeswax is more expensive and offers a cleaner burn and natural colour and scent. Many beeswax or honey products are manufactured using methods that are inhumane to the bees, so it is recommended to find a local beekeeper who is devoted to the proper health and care of the bees. Some consumers may wish not to use any animal products, and this is where plant-based waxes may be a better alternative.
Soy wax is a popular choice for candles, but it is difficult to find a true, 100% pure soy candle. Most soy candles are extracted using the toxic chemical hexane. Chemical additives or other waxes, particularly paraffin, are usually blended in to improve hardness and help it hold dyes or fragrances. Preservatives are also added to prevent the wax from going rancid. Soybeans are often harvested from genetically modified crops that use herbicides and pesticides, which may leave a residue in the final product. The demand for soy has led to mass deforestation and the destruction of habits in many places. If choosing soy, you want to examine the candle manufacturer and their source of the soybeans to make sure they practice sustainable methods.
Palm wax does not require the same harsh solvents and chemicals as soy wax, but most palm oil harvest contribute to mass deforestation and destruction of the environment and animals, especially in Malaysia and Indonesia. It is very difficult to find a truly sustainable source, though there are some out there. Palm oil also possesses potential health risks when consumed, so you may prefer not to support the industry at all.
Waxes such as carnauba and bayberry are more expensive and may be harder to find, but often use less harsh solvents and chemicals than both soy and palm waxes. Coconut wax is less well known than other waxes, and the process of extracting the oil also requires less chemicals, depending on the method. However, it is soft and is usually combined with other waxes to add strength. Like most plant waxes, not all sources are sustainable or eco-friendly. It is always recommended to check into the company you are purchasing your candle from, and the source from which they obtain the oil.
Beeswax is an excellent option for having a cleaner burning candle. If you would rather not use beeswax, then, overall, plant waxes are a better option. They tend to contain less chemicals than petroleum-based waxes such as paraffin, though this does depend heavily on the extraction and refining methods used, and can be made using sustainable, renewable methods and are biodegradable.
Look for candles that have cotton or paper/cotton blend wicks. Avoid wicks that contain lead. These wicks have been banned from North America, but may still be found in candles made elsewhere. You can test for lead by rubbing the tip of an unburnt candle wick on a white piece of paper. Light grey marks are a sign that it may contain lead.
If you want a scented candle, look for those that are both phthalate and solvent free. Fragrance formulas are considered proprietary in North America, which means the ingredients do not have to be listed or shared in any way. You can still attempt to look into the manufacturer and contact them to see if they will provide you with any information. Many fragrances and colourants are made from toxic chemicals.
It can be better to look for candles scented with 100% essential oils because you can have a better idea of what components are in it. Nevertheless, you still want to be careful. Essential oils can go through different methods of extraction or distillation and not all of them can be subjected to high heat. The heat from the candle flame can break down the molecular structure of the essential oil, so that none of its health properties remain.
If a candle contains essential oils, it is recommended to try to find out which essential oils are used, and then research to see if it can be subjected to heat. Avoid any essential oils or fragrance with limonene, a natural substance commonly found in citrus fruit. It can reaction with ozone to create formaldehyde.
If you are mainly choosing candles because you enjoy the sent, then an essential oil diffuser may be a better option. Diffusers do not subject the essential oil to high temperatures, meaning you retain any of its aromatherapy benefits. Be careful using certain essential oils around pets, particularly cats. By using a diffuser, you can get the scent and benefits of essential oils without the soot or breakdown into other chemicals.
Another option is a candle warmer, an electric warmer that melts the wax without the need for a flame. While this does prevent the candle from reaching high temperatures, it can still cause some substances in the wax to break down and release into the air. The types of substances released depend on the components used in the candle, such as the type of wax, wick, scent or colour.
It is also recommended to avoid coloured candles. The process of adding colourants to the candle can be complex, since there are many variables, including the humidity and temperature of the room, the temperature of the wax, the brand and type of colouring agent, how well it is stirred in, and the amount of colour being added. All these factors can influence the wick, and whether it clogs. You can also try colouring your own candles using herbs and spices. Again, you want to be very careful, since anything added to the wax can change its composition and how it burns.
Most well made candles, so long as their wicks are lead free, may pose little threat if you only burn one every once in awhile. Over time, however, if you burn candles in an enclosed space, burn them frequently, or burn more than one at a time, you can contribute to air pollution. These candles, particularly if they contain toxic or hazardous compounds, can emit unhealthy levels of chemicals and toxins in the air and aggravate asthma or irritate the respiratory tract.
There are some things you can do to help your candle burn better, reduce the amount of soot, and reduce the risk of starting a fire.
Safety
When burning a candle, it is generally recommended to let it burn long enough so that the whole top layer of wax becomes liquid. This can prevent the candle from burning unevenly and tunnelling (when only the wax near the wick meals, leaving a ring of hard wax on the outer edge).
Blowing out a candle flame can cause increased soot and smoke and may cause droplets of hot wax to blow on nearby surfaces. Extinguishing a candle flame with water may cause hot water to splatter and glass containers to break. Instead, use a candle snuffer or extinguisher or wick dipper.
The term “candle snuffer” is often used to refer to any type of instruments that puts out a candle flame. However, a candle snuffer is a scissor like device with a raised bowl atop that is used to snip the wick, which is caught in the bowl.
A candle extinguisher consists of a long handle with a small cone at one end. The cone is placed over the flame, where it deprives it of oxygen.
A wick dipper is a thin, flat tool with a hook on one end. The larger, flat end is used to push the burning wick into the melted wax to extinguished the flame; and the narrower, hooked end is used to pull the wick back up. These tools help reduce the amount of soot and smoke that is produced when the flame is extinguished.
Candles should be lit in a well ventilated room, but keep the flame away from air currents such as drafts, vents or ceiling fans. These types of air currents can blow nearby items into the flame or cause the flame to flicker and burn unevenly. Also keep candles away from children and pets and material that can catch fire, such as curtains, bedding, cabinetry, upholstered furniture, decorations, and clothing. Be careful not to knock into the candle or surface it’s on or drop anything into it.
If lighting multiple candles, keep them at least three inches apart. Do not let a candle burn all the way down since it may burn through the candle holder. For container candles, discontinue burning when ½ inch of wax remains. For other candles, you can burn it until 2 inches remain, or according to manufacturer specifications.
Use candle holders that are designed for candle use and are heat resistant, sturdy, large enough to contain any drips or melted wax, and well-ventilated. Keep the candle on a stable, heat resistant surface to prevent heat damage. Use caution when using candles in glass candle holders or containers, since they can break if they get too hot.
Keep wicks trimmed to ¼” and remove all debris before lighting to prevent the wick from getting too hot or the flame too big and prevent black soot or smoke. Trim the wick again every 2-3 hours when burning a candle for a long time. It is not recommended to keep a candle lit for more than a few hours, or longer than what the manufacturer recommends. Be particularly cautious when lighting a candle that contains more than one wick, and avoid buying candles with multiple wicks close together.
Another type of candle, known as relight, trick or magic candles, can spontaneously reignite after the flame has been extinguished and become a fire hazard. This type of candle should be avoided and is prohibited in some countries. Decorations such as ribbon, paper or plant material that is added to the wax may be extremely flammable and increase risk of fires.
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Be careful not to fall asleep or leave the room or house when a candle is burning, and do not use the candle as a night light. Candles are a popular choice of light during power outages, but this should be done with extreme caution. There is an increased risk of knocking the candle over and causing a fire. Candles should not be touched or moved while burning.
Always watch your candle to see if it is burning properly. If a burning candle begins to smoke, flicker, or the flame becomes too high, extinguish it, trim the wick, and check for any drafts or air currents before relighting. If the candle still isn’t burning properly after proper care and maintenance, then it may have a design flaw, and shouldn’t be used.
Be sure to check the manufacturer for any specific instructions and safety tips regarding the style of candle you are using. Elevations above 2000 feet may also affect burn properties due to less oxygen being available.
Every Decision Can Have Major Impact
A single candle may seem like a small, unimportant thing. Yet, by every one of us paying attention to all of the small things that affect our health, we can begin to make a big difference on our environment. Every choice we make can influence the industries we choose to support and the amount of toxins we put into our air and bodies. Taking control of our health and lives begins by paying attention to the products we use and choosing those that provide the most benefits with the least amount of toxins or harsh chemicals.
A candle can symbolize something much deeper and bigger than what it is. Throughout history, candles have symbolized life, hope, and more. Similarly, the seemingly small choices we make everyday on the products we use or the actions we take can have a much bigger impact that we realize. You can then get greater enjoyment out of the products that you choose knowing that they aren’t damaging your health.
As you feel the warmth and gentle glow of a burning candle, you can relax in knowing that you have chosen one that is best for your needs, lifestyle, health, and environment.
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