The Honest Answer to "Are Candles Toxic?"
It’s a question we see all the time, and for good reason: as people become more conscious about the ingredients in their food and skincare, it’s only natural to question what we’re releasing into the air in our homes. With the changing seasons upon us, we’re all looking forward to creating a cozy, candle-lit atmosphere indoors. So, are candles toxic?
The straightforward answer is: it entirely depends on the candle. The mass market is filled with low-cost options that can indeed release harmful substances. At Mbur Candle Co, we built our brand on the belief that luxury and wellness should go hand-in-hand. Let’s shed some light on what makes a candle potentially toxic and how you can make a healthier choice.
The Source of Toxicity: What to Avoid
When a candle is labeled as "toxic," it's typically due to three components: the wax, the fragrance, or the wick.
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The Wax: The vast majority of candles on the market are made from paraffin wax. Paraffin is a petroleum byproduct. When burned, studies have shown it can release toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, including known carcinogens like benzene and toluene. This is the number one source of health concerns related to candles.
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The Fragrance: The simple word "fragrance" on a label can hide a cocktail of synthetic chemicals. Many commercial candle scents contain phthalates, which are chemical compounds used to help the scent linger. Phthalates have been linked to a range of health issues and can be particularly irritating to the respiratory system.
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The Wick: While banned in the U.S. since 2003, lead-core wicks were once common. There is still a risk of finding them in cheap, unregulated, or imported candles. Burning these wicks can release toxic lead into the air.
The Mbur Candle Co. Solution: A Commitment to Purity
We believe you have a right to know exactly what you’re burning in your home. That’s why we’ve obsessively sourced the purest ingredients to craft a truly non-toxic candle experience.
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Our Wax: 100% Pure Beeswax We sidestep the paraffin problem entirely by using 100% pure beeswax. Not only is beeswax all-natural, renewable, and non-toxic, but it’s also a natural air purifier. Instead of releasing toxins, our beeswax candles release negative ions that bind with airborne particles like dust and dander, helping to actively clean the air in your home.
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Our Fragrance: Pure & Phthalate-Free At Mbur Candle Co, transparency is paramount. All of our custom fragrance blends are certified phthalate-free and are blended using the highest quality ingredients. We offer a beautiful scent experience without the hidden chemicals, so you can breathe deep and relax.
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Our Wicks: Natural, Untreated Wood We use all-natural, untreated wooden wicks in every candle. This choice ensures a clean, consistent burn free from the risk of heavy metals or chemical additives. As a bonus, they produce a gentle, calming crackle that enhances the serene ambiance.
Best Practices for a Healthy Burn
Even with the highest quality candle, proper care ensures the cleanest burn:
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Ensure Good Ventilation: Always burn candles in a room with adequate airflow.
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Trim Your Wick: Before each use, gently pinch off the charred, ashy part of the wooden wick for a steady, low flame.
The Verdict: Choose Your Candle Consciously
So, are candles toxic? A cheap paraffin candle can be. A thoughtfully crafted, natural candle is a safe, beautiful addition to a healthy home.
With Mbur Candle Co, you never have to compromise your well-being for ambiance. We built our company on purity so you can feel good about the air you breathe.
Ready to elevate your home with a candle you can trust completely? Discover the pure, clean burn of Mbur Candle Co. today.
[Shop Our Non-Toxic Beeswax & Wood Wick Collection]
