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Scent holds significant power. It can elicit emotions, evoke memories, and define our individual identity—some “functional fragrances” go as far as to calm or enhance our emotions altogether. Candles may be the coziest way to capitalize on scent—to brighten your space, help you unwind, or set the mood for the changing seasons. However, aside from their enchanting glow and delightful aromas, the ingredients in your candles matter. This is where non-toxic candles come in, going beyond ambiance to protect the air you breathe and the space you inhabit. In a market saturated with choices, understanding the health implications of your candle selections is essential. The ingredients in candles can affect indoor air quality, making it a wellness choice worth considering. We connected with experts in the non-toxic, clean candle space to find out what “non-toxic candles” really means, why it’s important, and what to look for when selecting your next candle. Additionally, we’ve curated a list of 11 of our favorite non-toxic candles (at various price points) to help you transition to a cleaner burn more easily.
What it means for a candle to be non-toxic
The quality of ingredients has a significant impact on the candles you burn—after all, you’re inhaling all the substances in your candle, which can affect your body both in the short and long term. Suzy Allen, founder and creative director of West Clay in Sarasota, Florida, explains that not all candles are created equal: “Some candle brands use paraffin wax, releasing not-so-great substances like acetone and benzene into the air—yikes!” Paraffin wax has been linked to carcinogens and increased cancer risk, as well as causing headaches, kidney and endocrine damage, breathing problems, and more. Hence, candles made from soy, coconut, or vegetable wax are a preferable option.
But do non-toxic candles go beyond just the wax? Melody Lim, founder of Mala, encourages readers to also consider the wick material and fragrance type. “Lighting a candle with harmful ingredients can lead to breathing problems, skin irritation, and staining on the walls and furniture in your home,” she explains. Typically, Lim says, the most common harmful ingredients in candles are petrochemicals, lead-filled wicks, and synthetic fragrances. According to the International Fragrance Association, the word “fragrance” on a label can include 3,619 ingredients, some of which can impact your health. At minimum, look for fragrances free of phthalates and parabens, or shop from a candlemaker that prioritizes ingredient clarity and clean fragrance blends. “Phthalates have been linked to reproductive issues plus certain cancers, disrupting the body’s endocrine system,” says Allen. “That’s why our fragrance oils are 100 percent phthalate-free, and Prop 65 compliant. They don’t contain carcinogens, mutagens, reproductive toxins, organ toxins or acute toxins.”
What to look for
Green flags: 100 percent soy or coconut wax, or a specific blend of the two; essential oil-based or synthetic fragrance; phthalate- and paraben-free fragrance; cotton, hemp, or wood wicks
Red flags: Paraffin wax; metalcore, lead, and petroleum-primed wicks; artificial dyes or colorants; “soy wax blend” or “coconut wax blend” without detailed explanation
Shop the best non-toxic candles
If you’re looking through your current stash of candles and panicking, take a deep breath—the way you make the change to non-toxic candles is up to you. Knowledge is power, and you’re already on the path to a healthier candle experience. Do what works best for you, and keep this list handy. Without further ado, here are 11 of the best non-toxic candles that’ll burn cleaner and without all the health risks— but still with the coziness and yummy scents we all crave. Though we’ve selected 11 individual candles, each of the brands featured only craft non-toxic candles, so it’s worth browsing through their collections to see what else sparks your curiosity.
1. Snif — $46
Key Ingredients: soy and vegetable wax, non-toxic fragrance
Snif’s clean, unisex perfumes are a hit amongst fragrance connoisseurs, particularly on TikTok. The brand also offers gorgeous non-toxic candles, with core collection scents and limited-edition, collaboration candles all formulated with clean, non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients. Snif uses 100 percent pure cotton fiber wicks for a clean, safe burn. Our pick: Birds and the Breeze is a favorite amongst Snif fans, with a light and airy scent perfect for lighting in the morning.
2. Mala — $34
Key ingredients: custom-blend coconut-soy wax, phthalate- and paraben-free fragrance and essential oils
Mala is a Canada-based, women-owned company that offers clean, non-toxic candles in a variety of scents. The brand partners with Veritree, so that with every candle purchase, a tree is planted across the globe. Our pick: Silk, with notes of jasmine, coconut, and tonka bean—a beautiful and light scent.
3. Carrière Frères — $65
Key ingredients: 100% vegetable wax
Carrière Frères offers a slightly more elevated candle experience, crafted in Normandy with 100 percent vegetable wax from European organic rapeseed. The candles come in a variety of botanical and natural scents, including Orange Blossom. Our pick: Orange Blossom, a gorgeous, light floral and citrusy scent perfect for summertime.
4. Candelles — $32
Key ingredients: 100% natural soy wax, alcohol- and phthalate-free fragrances, non-treated, lead-free cotton wicks
Candelles is a small, woman-owned candle shop based in Pennsylvania, offering products made with 100% natural soy wax, all-natural fragrance oils, and lead-free cotton wicks. Our pick: Freshly Brewed, with notes of black coffee bean, cream, vanilla bean.
5. Nette — $82
Key ingredients: natural coconut and soy wax, paraben-, sulfate-, and dye-free fragrances
Nette, based in New York City, offers beautiful, elegant candles with unique scent profiles and clean ingredients. Our pick: Lux Candle, a rich, warm scent with notes of oud, sandalwood, and amber.
Parting thoughts
Transitioning to non-toxic candles that burn cleaner and without all the health risks is worth the effort. With knowledge and these curated picks, you’re well on your way to a healthier candle experience. Remember, you have the power to make the change that works best for you. Happy shopping!
