What’s in Your Wax? A Guide to Choosing Non-Toxic Candles
When lighting a candle, you want more than just a beautiful scent—you want to ensure that what you’re breathing in is safe for you and your family. At Giaroma Candle Company, we believe in transparency and using high-quality, non-toxic ingredients to create clean-burning candles. But not all candles are created equal! Let’s dive into what’s in your wax and how to choose the best non-toxic options.
Understanding Candle Wax Types
Candles can be made from a variety of waxes, each with different burning properties and environmental impacts. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
1. Paraffin Wax (Traditional, But Controversial)
Pros: Cheap, widely available, holds fragrance well
Cons: Made from petroleum byproducts, can release toxins like benzene and toluene when burned
Paraffin wax is one of the most common candle materials due to its affordability, but it’s also one of the most debated. Since it’s derived from petroleum, studies suggest it may release small amounts of harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to indoor pollution.
2. Soy Wax (A Cleaner Alternative)
Pros: Renewable, biodegradable, clean-burning, long-lasting
Cons: Can contain additives, may be blended with paraffin in some cases
Soy wax is a popular choice for non-toxic candles. Made from soybean oil, it burns cleaner than paraffin and produces less soot. However, it’s important to check if a candle is 100% soy wax—some brands mix soy with paraffin to cut costs.
3. Beeswax (The Purest Choice)
Pros: Natural, emits negative ions that purify the air, long burn time
Cons: Expensive, limited scent throw compared to other waxes
Beeswax is one of the best options for those looking for a truly natural candle. It has a mild, honey-like scent on its own and helps improve indoor air quality by releasing negative ions that neutralize pollutants.
4. Coconut Wax (Sustainable & High-Quality)
Pros: Eco-friendly, slow-burning, holds fragrance well
Cons: Higher price point, often blended with other waxes
Coconut wax is gaining popularity for its sustainable sourcing and clean-burning properties. It has an excellent scent throw, making it ideal for luxury candles. However, like soy, it’s often blended with other waxes, so always check the ingredient list.
How to Spot Non-Toxic Candles
Choosing a high-quality, non-toxic candle goes beyond just the wax. Here’s what to look for:
✅ 100% Natural Wax
Look for candles labeled 100% soy, coconut, or beeswax rather than "soy blend" or generic wax descriptions, which may contain paraffin.
✅ Lead-Free, Cotton or Wood Wicks
Some cheap candles use metal-core wicks, which can release harmful particles when burned. Opt for cotton or wooden wicks for a cleaner burn.
✅ Phthalate-Free Fragrances
Many scented candles contain synthetic fragrances with phthalates, which have been linked to respiratory and hormone issues. Check for candles made with essential oils or phthalate-free fragrance oils.
✅ No Artificial Dyes
Brightly colored candles may contain chemical dyes that release toxins when burned. Natural candles use plant-based or mineral colorants instead.
Giaroma’s Commitment to Clean Candles
At Giaroma Candle Company, we craft our candles with 100% natural soy wax, phthalate-free fragrances, and lead-free wicks to ensure a safe, clean burn for your home. We believe that candles should not only smell amazing but also be non-toxic and eco-friendly.
When choosing candles, remember: what’s in your wax matters. Make the switch to cleaner, healthier candles and enjoy the glow with peace of mind!