The Best Non Toxic Candles [Yes! Candles Can be Toxic]

Looking for the best candles free of toxins? With better-for-you ingredients including waxes, wicks and fragrance, this round-up of the best non toxic candles will ensure your home is smelling great while also caring for your health.

I know it’s easy to feel like everything is harming our health but when it’s a simple fix like swapping out your candles or cleaning products, I want to be here to educate you and empower you to make that decision for yourself!

Before I get into the best non toxic candles I wanted to share a little bit about what makes candles “toxic” and what to look out for when it comes to buying candles.

Are Some Candles Really Toxic?

Conventional scented candles can literally be considered pollution in the home. They let off harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds that can affect everything from your breathing to your hormones. What do you need to look for? I’ve narrowed it down to just three things:

Artificial fragrances – Artificial scents from chemicals have been associated with a variety of health issues (source). In addition, synthetic fragrances can contain phthalates, which are chemicals that have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues. Ditch artificial fragrances and look for natural aromas from essential oils or phthalate-free candles instead. I promise they’ll smell better and won’t give you that horrible fragrance headache!

Paraffin wax – If you walk down the candle aisle at Target or through the candle store at your local mall, they’re likely made with paraffin wax which is a petrochemical byproduct. That means it’s from petroleum refining. When burned it lets off toxic chemicals including toluene and benzene. These are often associated with cancer causing compounds (source).

Metal wicks – Another tidbit you might be surprised by. Some wicks have a tiny wire inside. When that burns, they can release heavy metals that are associated with disrupting your hormones, reproductive and neurological systems (source). Look for 100% cotton wicks, hemp or wood wicks.

What To Look for in Your Non Toxic Candles

So what should you look for in a candle brand? You may guess it from the “avoid” list but be sure to check these ingredients out when shopping for a new candle!

1. Wax – Obviously you want to avoid paraffin wax but what waxes should you look for? Soy wax, coconut wax and beeswax candles are all great options. Be sure to make sure labels say the candles are 100% soy or beeswax (companies like to create blends with paraffin wax because it’s cheaper) and if possible, I like to buy sustainably sourced and cruelty-free candles! Note: beeswax candles technically are not vegan but soy wax and coconut wax candles are. Remember *soy wax blend* etc..are generally mixed with paraffin wax!
2. Wick – As you know, you’ll want to avoid a wick with metal in it. Look for a 100% unbleached cotton wick, hemp wicks or wooden wicks so you can enjoy a clean burning candle
3. Natural scents – Synthetic fragrance is a broad umbrella. I like to look for candles that have been scented with pure essential oils (such as vanilla, lavender, bergamot, lemon, grapefruit, sandalwood etc..) that are sustainably sourced and eco-friendly.

Typically non toxic candle makers tend to be made in small batches that are hand-poured or smaller manufacturing studios.

TLDR; For the safest healthiest candle to burn, look for soy, coconut or beeswax candles, unbleached cotton, hemp or wooden wicks and scented with pure essential oils.

Like this post? Here are a few others you might enjoy:

• Homemade Aromatherapy Candles
• How to Create a Sustainable Kitchen
• Zero-Waste Travel Tips
• 10 Ways to Live Sustainably for Under $10