The Hidden Hazards of Candles and Air Fresheners

In the quest to create a welcoming and fragrant home environment, many turn to the ambient glow of scented candles and the instant freshness of air fresheners. However, beneath their pleasant aromas and cozy flickers, some of these products harbor a cocktail of chemicals that can be detrimental to health. Understanding the potential risks and learning to choose healthier alternatives can help ensure the air in your home remains not just fragrant but also safe.

The Underlying Concerns

The primary concern with certain candles and air fresheners lies in their composition and the emissions they produce. Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, is commonly used in candle making. When burned, paraffin candles can release hazardous substances such as toluene and benzene, classified as carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). A study published in the “Journal of Environmental Health” (2009) also highlighted that burning paraffin candles can contribute to indoor air pollution (Fine, P.M., et al., 2009).

Air fresheners, including sprays, gels, and plug-ins, often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds can react with other indoor pollutants, potentially forming secondary toxic substances like formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) tested 14 air fresheners and found that many contained phthalates, chemicals linked to hormone disruption and reproductive problems (“Clearing the Air: Hidden Hazards of Air Fresheners,” 2007).

It’s important to note that while these plants can contribute to improving indoor air quality, they should be seen as complementary measures. Ensuring good ventilation and minimizing the use of products that emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are also crucial steps in maintaining healthy indoor air.

Choosing Healthier Options

Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to conventional scented candles and air fresheners. Here are some tips to help you choose:

Opt for Natural Waxes: Look for candles made from beeswax or soy wax. These natural materials burn cleaner and are biodegradable, reducing the risk of indoor air pollution.
Essential Oil Diffusers: Instead of air fresheners, consider using essential oil diffusers. They disperse natural oils into the air, providing a pleasant aroma without the use of harmful chemicals.
Non-Toxic Labels: Seek out products labeled as non-toxic or free from phthalates, parabens, and synthetic dyes. Brands that prioritize transparency and list all ingredients are often a safer bet.
Unscented Options: If you enjoy the ambiance of candles but want to avoid any potential risks, unscented candles are a good choice. They offer the same cozy glow without any fragrance-related concerns.
Ventilation: Regardless of the candles or air fresheners you use, adequate ventilation is crucial. Open windows and doors periodically to allow fresh air in and dilute indoor pollutants.
DIY Alternatives: You can create your own air fresheners using natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils. Homemade potpourri and dried herbs are also excellent natural fragrance sources.

100% Soy Candles with Cotton Wicks

Goodie Glow Scented 100% Soy Candle, Cotton Wick 9oz

Brooklyn Candle Studio Sunday Morning Minimalist Candle | Vegan Soy Wax Luxury Scented Candle, Hand Poured in The USA, 50 Hour Slow Burn Time (7.5 oz)

LA JOLIE MUSE Moroccan Amber Scented Candle, 19 Oz Large Candles for Home Scented, Candles Gifts for Women & Men, Luxury Glass Jar Candles, Natural Soy Candle, 120 Hours Long Burning

Chloefu LAN White Linen Highly Fragranced Candle Luxury Scented Soy Jar Candle Natural Soy Candle for Home Spring Candles Gifts for Women, 10 oz 65 Hours

PACIFIC JADE Hand Poured 100% Natural Soy Candle 11oz – Luxury Fragrance in Matte Glass for Home or Gift – Premium Cotton Wick for 60 Hours Burn Time – Woman-Founded Brand (Golden Vanilla)

Sand + Fog Scented Candle -Tahitian Vanilla – Additional Scents and Sizes – 100% Cotton Lead-Free Wick – Luxury Air Freshening Jar Candles – Perfect Home Decor – 12oz

P.F. Candle Co. Red Nutmeg & Peppercorn Limited Winter Classic Scented Soy Wax Candle (7.2 oz) 40-50 Hour Burn Time, Cotton Wick, Green Glass Jar

Scented Candles for Friends, Natural Soy Wax Candles for Home, Relaxing Aromatherapy, Lavender Lemongrass Essential Oils, Long Lasting Candle Burns for 75 Hours, Friendship Gifts Made in The USA

Broken Top – White Birch|9 oz. Cyprus, Eucalyptus & Pine. Pure Soy Wax Candle. 50-Hour Burn Time. Natural Cotton Wick, Vegan, No Parabens, No Phthalates

Palo Santo Soy Candle | Natural Essential Oils 8oz. Tumbler Jar | Scented Candle Non- Toxic | Cotton Wick – Phthalate Free Aromatherapy Scented Candle

Memory Shadow Sandalwood & Jasmine Scented Candle | Natural Soy Wax & Cotton Wick | Aromatherapy Jar Candle | Three Wicks, 35-Hour Burn Time, 12.35 OZ.

Paddywax National Parks Artisan Soy Wax Scented Candle, 11-Ounce Textured Ceramic Jar, Yosemite – Cottonwood + Oak

AlobyC®, (1 pcs) Large Wood Dough Bowl Candle (16.5 x 6 x2 inch), Boho Candles, Paulownia Candle, Wood Candle, Soy Candle, Coffee Table Candle, Bread Bowl Candle

Oil Reed Diffusers

Brooklyn Candle Studio Reed Diffuser Set – Santorini –Red Currant and Amber – 8 Rattan Diffuser Reeds – Non-Toxic Essential Oil – Aromatherapy – Home Fragrance – 4.4 Fluid Ounces

Urban Naturals Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmint Essential Oil Reed Diffuser Refill | Large 8 Ounce Size | Includes a Free Set of Reed Sticks! Made in The USA

NEVAEHEART Freesia Reed Diffuser Oil Refill | Home Fragrance Oil, Scented Oils, Air Freshener, Aromatherapy | Includes Free Set of Reed Sticks | 6.8 oz (2 Pack)

Odor Removing Gel non-toxic, non-GMO, and non-hazardous, no chemicals, synthetic perfumes, alcohol, or phthalates.

Air Essentials Air Freshener & Odor Neutralizer Gel Beads – Odor Eliminator – Made with Pure Essential Oils – Eucalyptus Mint – 12 Ounce – 2 Pack

Conclusion:

While scented candles and air fresheners can enhance the atmosphere of our homes, it’s essential to be aware of their potential health risks. By opting for natural, non-toxic options and ensuring proper ventilation, we can enjoy the benefits of a fragrant home without compromising our well-being. As consumers, staying informed and making conscious choices allows us to navigate the aromatic aisles with confidence and health in mind.

Sources:

Fine, P.M., Cass, G.R., & Simoneit, B.R.T. (2009). Chemical Characterization of Fine Particle Emissions from Candles. Journal of Environmental Health.
Clearing the Air: Hidden Hazards of Air Fresheners. (2007). Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).
International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) – Agents Classified by the IARC Monographs.