Lighting a candle should feel grounding — not like you’re gambling with your health. But the truth is, not all candles are created clean. While the term “non toxic” gets tossed around often, it’s more than just a marketing buzzword. It’s about protecting the air you breathe, minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals, and making better choices for your home and your body.
Here’s what science tells us about the risks of conventional candles, and how to find — or make — cleaner, safer alternatives.
What “non toxic” actually means (and what it doesn’t)
Let’s start with the basics. The term “non toxic” isn’t strictly regulated in the candle world. That means brands can use it loosely. But at ReCandle Co., here’s how we define it:
- Wax that comes from natural or minimally processed sources — not petroleum
- Fragrances that are free from known toxins like phthalates, carcinogens, and reproductive disruptors
- Wicks made without metal cores
- No synthetic dyes or additives that release unknown substances into the air
To be clear: even a “non toxic” candle still emits something. Fire is fire — you’ll get heat, vapor, and some particulate matter. But the goal here is to reduce exposure to ingredients that are known or suspected to cause harm, especially indoors where air circulation can be limited.
What conventional candles can release into your home
Many mass-market candles use paraffin wax — a petroleum byproduct. When burned, paraffin can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene and toluene. These are substances linked to respiratory irritation and, at higher exposures, even cancer.
There’s also particulate matter to consider — tiny particles from soot that can travel deep into the lungs. These are especially concerning for people with asthma, allergies, or other sensitivities.
Fragrances are another source of potential toxins. Unless a candle brand specifically uses clean fragrance oils, there’s a chance their scents include phthalates or other endocrine disruptors. These can mess with hormone function and may cause allergic reactions or headaches.
While short burns in ventilated spaces may keep these risks low, why take the chance — especially when safer options exist?
Red flags to avoid when shopping for candles
If you’re scanning a candle label, watch for these ingredients and cues:
Paraffin or petroleum-based wax: This is the most common source of soot and harmful VOCs. Look instead for 100% soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax blends.
Undisclosed fragrance blends: If the label just says “fragrance” with no details, that’s a red flag. Seek out candles that use clearly labeled essential oils or fragrance oils that are free from phthalates and other Prop 65-listed substances.
Metal-core wicks: These were once made with lead, which is now banned in the U.S. — but you still want to be sure you’re burning a cotton or wood wick with no metal content.
Synthetic dyes: Brightly colored candles often get their hue from synthetic colorants that can release toxins when burned. Look for naturally hued wax or dye-free options.
Heavy scent throw: Too much fragrance, even if it’s technically non toxic, can be overwhelming. Strong scent doesn’t always equal safe scent.
What to look for instead — the safer candle checklist
Here’s how to spot a candle that actually aligns with non toxic principles:
Clean wax: Choose options made from 100% soy wax, coconut wax, or beeswax. These plant-based waxes tend to burn cleaner and emit less soot.
Transparent fragrance: Look for brands that disclose what’s in their scents — ideally ones that are free from phthalates, carcinogens, and reproductive toxins. At ReCandle Co., for example, we only use clean fragrance oils that meet these criteria.
Natural wicks: Cotton or wood wicks are the gold standard. No metals, no mysteries.
Low-waste design: While not directly tied to toxicity, using a refillable candle system — like our refillable candle and zero waste refills — minimizes environmental exposure and waste over time.
What science says about health effects
The health risks from candles depend on a few things: the ingredients, how long you burn them, and the space they’re used in. Multiple studies have measured emissions from scented candles and found that:
- Paraffin candles emit more soot and VOCs compared to soy or beeswax
- VOCs like formaldehyde and benzene are present — even if at low levels — in many conventional candles
- Some people report symptoms like headaches, coughing, or shortness of breath after burning fragranced candles
One study found that nearly 25% of people reported health symptoms from scented candle use. That doesn’t prove harm in every case, but it shows there’s real sensitivity — and reason to be mindful.
Ultimately, even small exposures can add up, especially when candles are just one piece of the indoor air quality puzzle.
How to burn candles more safely
Even the cleanest candle benefits from smart burning habits. Here are a few ways to keep your space healthier while still enjoying the glow:
- Burn candles in well-ventilated spaces
- Keep the wick trimmed to ¼ inch to reduce soot
- Avoid burning for more than 3–4 hours at a time
- Let the wax pool fully to prevent tunneling and waste
- Snuff — don’t blow — candles out to reduce smoke
And of course, choose candles that align with your values — ones that are non toxic, low-waste, and transparently made.
Why ReCandle Co. puts health first
At ReCandle Co., we’re committed to clean-burning ingredients from start to finish. Every soy wax refill is made with 100% soy wax, cotton wicks, and clean fragrance oils that are free from phthalates, carcinogens, and Prop 65-listed toxins. They’re also safer for pets, kids, and sensitive noses.
But beyond just safety, our entire system is designed for ease — our wax refills pop in and out of your handmade ceramic vessel without any scraping or mess, making it simple to keep your space clean and candle-lit.
No greenwashing. Just better candles that fit into real life.
Final thought: a little glow goes a long way
Candles are about mood, ritual, comfort. And you shouldn’t have to trade those things for questionable ingredients. By learning what to look for — and what to skip — you can enjoy your glow with peace of mind.
Want a safer option that feels as good as it smells? Explore our refillable candle system and experience non toxic candles that actually walk the talk.