The 5 Most Harmful Ingredients Found in Common Candles (and Why You Should Avoid Them)
When choosing candles for your home, it’s easy to be drawn in by enticing scents and beautiful packaging. However, many candles and other fragrance products contain harmful ingredients that can compromise indoor air quality and potentially impact your health. At Good Smells Inc, we believe in creating non-toxic, eco-friendly products that you can trust. In this blog post, we’ll explore five of the most harmful ingredients commonly found in candles and why making the switch to cleaner alternatives is essential for your well-being.
1. Paraffin Wax
What is it?
Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum refining and is one of the most common waxes used in store-bought candles due to its low cost and easy availability.
Why is it harmful?
When burned, paraffin wax releases toxic chemicals such as toluene and benzene — both of which are known carcinogens. Prolonged exposure to these substances can contribute to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even more severe health concerns over time. Additionally, paraffin candles produce soot, which can discolor walls, furniture, and even the air you breathe.
Our Alternative:
At Good Smells Inc, we use 100% natural soy wax, derived from US farmed soybeans. It burns cleaner, longer, and doesn’t release harmful toxins into your home.
2. Non-Phthalate Free Fragrances
What is it?
Why is it harmful?
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone function. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to reproductive issues, developmental problems in children, and asthma. Furthermore, burning candles with certain fragrances can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation.
Our Alternative:
We use only high-quality, phthalate-free fragrance oils in our candles, ensuring that you can enjoy delightful scents without compromising your health.
3. Lead-Core Wicks
What is it?
While many manufacturers have phased out lead-core wicks due to regulatory restrictions, some imported and lower-quality candles still use them to keep the wick upright while burning.
Why is it harmful?
Burning candles with lead-core wicks can release lead particles into the air, which poses significant health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women. Lead exposure has been linked to cognitive impairments, developmental delays, and other serious health issues.
Our Alternative:
All of our candles are crafted with wood wicks that provide a soothing crackle while ensuring a clean burn.
4. Dyes and Colorants
What is it?
Artificial dyes and colorants are frequently added to candles to enhance their aesthetic appeal. These dyes are often derived from petroleum-based sources and may contain harmful chemicals.
Why is it harmful?
When burned, these dyes can release toxins into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Certain dyes have been linked to skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even more severe health concerns when inhaled regularly.
Our Alternative:
We prioritize simplicity and safety by offering candles in their natural state without the use of artificial dyes. Our focus is on clean-burning candles that are safe for you, your family, and the environment.
5. UV Stabilizers and Preservatives
What is it?
UV stabilizers are chemicals added to candles to prevent color fading from sunlight exposure, while preservatives are used to extend the shelf life of certain candle components.
Why is it harmful?
Many of these chemicals are synthetic and can release harmful compounds when heated. Prolonged exposure to these substances may lead to respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and other health issues.
Our Alternative:
We avoid unnecessary additives and chemicals in our products. Our candles are made with minimal ingredients to ensure a safer, healthier environment in your home.
Why Choose Non-Toxic Candles?
Switching to non-toxic candles isn’t just a trend — it’s a lifestyle choice that prioritizes your health and well-being. At Good Smells Inc, we believe that the products you bring into your home should enhance your space without compromising your health. Our handcrafted soy candles are free from paraffin wax, lead wicks, artificial dyes, and harmful preservatives.
By choosing our eco-friendly, non-toxic candles, you’re not only protecting your health but also supporting sustainability and ethical practices. Each candle is thoughtfully crafted with care, ensuring a clean burn, delightful fragrance, and peace of mind.
Make the Switch Today
Are you ready to transform your home with clean, non-toxic candles? Browse our collection and experience the difference for yourself. Your health, your home, and the planet will thank you.