Candles create cozy vibes, soft lighting, and soothing scents—but are they messing with your indoor air quality? It’s a question more people are asking, especially as we spend so much time inside. The good news? You don’t have to give up candlelight to breathe easier. You just need to choose (and use) candles more intentionally.
Let’s break down how candles affect indoor air—and how to make sure your rituals are clean, safe, and sustainable.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters More Than You Think
We spend about 90% of our time indoors, so the air in our homes matters—a lot. From the paint on our walls to the products we burn or spray, little things can add up. And while one candle now and then won’t cause major harm, repeated use of low-quality candles can introduce pollutants that linger in your living space.
The cleaner your home’s air, the better you feel. It’s as simple (and important) as that.
Are Candles Bad for Indoor Air? The Real Story
Not all candles are created equal. Some—especially those made with paraffin wax—release more than just fragrance. When burned, paraffin (a petroleum byproduct) can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, benzene, and tiny soot particles into the air. These aren’t things you want to breathe in daily—especially if you have allergies, asthma, or little ones around.
Even “natural” candles can be misleading if they use synthetic fragrances or metal-core wicks. Thankfully, there’s a cleaner path forward.
What to Look For in a Cleaner Candle
Here’s what to prioritize if you want to enjoy candlelight and protect your indoor air:
- Soy wax or beeswax: These natural waxes burn much cleaner than paraffin, producing less soot and fewer pollutants.
- Cotton wicks: No metal cores. No nonsense. Just clean, reliable burning.
- Non-toxic fragrances: Look for candles free of phthalates, carcinogens, and anything on California’s Prop 65 list.
- And a quick note about wax melts: while they’re often sold as a “safer” alternative, some can release ultrafine particles that are just as concerning. Bottom line? Always check your ingredients—flame or no flame.
Want an easy, clean-burning option? Try our refillable candle, which pairs handpoured soy wax with safe scents and a reusable ceramic candle vessel.
How to Burn Candles Safely Without Polluting Your Air
Even the cleanest candle benefits from a few smart habits:
- Trim your wick: Before each burn, snip the wick to about ¼ inch. It reduces soot and keeps your flame calm and steady.
- Ventilate when needed: Especially if you’re burning multiple candles or have smaller rooms.
- Stick to 3–4 hour burns: Longer burns can overheat the wax and release more particles.
- Snuff, don’t blow: Blowing out a candle stirs up soot. Use a snuffer or lid to minimize smoke.
- Keep pets and kids in mind: Their lungs are more sensitive, so choosing clean-burning candles matters even more.
Why ReCandle Co. Is Built for Clean Air & Conscious Living
At ReCandle Co., we don’t just think about what goes into our candles—we think about what goes into your air.
Here’s how we do things differently:
- Clean-burning soy wax that produces less soot and fewer emissions
- Cotton wicks—no metal, no hidden toxins
- Phthalate-free, toxin-free fragrances that meet strict CA Prop 65 standards
- A zero waste candle refill system that cuts down on packaging and waste
- Reusable, heat-safe handmade ceramic vessels that last through dozens of refills
- Flexible candle subscription options for low-waste living, without the hassle
So yes—you can have candles that are beautiful, sustainable, and better for your indoor air. That’s kind of our whole thing.
The Bottom Line: You Don’t Have to Give Up Candles to Breathe Cleaner
You light candles because they help you unwind, focus, or reset the mood. And that shouldn’t come at the cost of your air quality. With a few simple shifts—like choosing soy wax, trimming your wick, and avoiding paraffin—you can keep your space cozy and clean.
If you're ready to upgrade your ritual, explore our zero waste refills and feel the difference a clean burn makes.
FAQ
Are soy candles better for indoor air quality?
Yes. Soy candles produce less soot and emit fewer harmful chemicals than paraffin, making them a safer choice for indoor spaces.
Do candles release harmful chemicals?
Some do—especially paraffin candles or those with synthetic fragrances. Choosing soy wax and toxin-free scents is key to a cleaner burn.
How can I burn candles without affecting air quality?
Use clean-burning soy candles, trim your wick, burn in a ventilated area, and keep sessions to a few hours at a time.
Are wax melts safer than candles?
Not always. Some wax melts release microscopic particles that may be harmful when inhaled. Always check ingredients and avoid synthetic additives.