What Makes a Candle Clean Burning?

A lot of candles you find on the shelves aren’t really 'all natural', 'or clean burning.'

Here’s a few things to look for if you’re interested in finding the healthiest and most environmentally conscious candles. 

1. 100% Pure Soybean Wax

 

If possible, choose candles that use 100% pure soy wax. A lot of companies will blend their waxes with cheaper options, like paraffin which is non-renewable and petroleum based. Pure wax from soybeans is plentiful, renewable, vegan friendly, and burns cooler with minimum soot.

2. Travel Less

While a lot of companies save money by moving their manufacturing overseas, the financial and environmental costs of shipping products great distances can add up. Buying candles that are made in your region, or at least in North America, can be more eco-friendly.

3. All Natural Fragrances

This is a tough one, because most scents are secret formulas, and 'all natural' doesn't always mean what you think. Make sure the fragrances are derived from non-toxic sources, such as plant extracts, essential oils and contain no parabens or phthalates. 

4. Bleach-Free Cotton Wicks

Try and choose candles that are made with bleach-free cotton wicks that are zinc and lead free. Just a decade or two ago, many of the wicks found in common candles contained these dangerous additives.

 5. ZERO Petroleum, GMOs, Paraffins, Phthalates, Parabens, or Artificial Dyes

Clean burning candles won’t impact the air quality in your home, and shouldn’t include ingredients that aren’t natural; less is more. Try and find candles that are free of artificial dyes, petroleum products, GMOs, phthalates, parabens, and any decorative additives in the wax.

 

Simply put, 100% pure soy waxes, truly natural fragrances, and no artificial additives are the perfect combination for the best clean burning candles.