In this article, you will discover:
- How to choose the right scented candle?
- Which candles are the least harmful?
- Which candles smell the best?
What is a natural candle?
Natural candles are made from eco-friendly, non-toxic ingredients, such as vegetable wax or beeswax, and natural essential oils for fragrance.
It is also possible to create your own natural candles at home by following the appropriate instructions and using the right ingredients, allowing you to personalize the scents and designs.
Natural candles offer a more ecological, healthy and authentic alternative to industrial candles, ideal for bringing a fragrant ambiance to your home in a responsible and pleasant way.
Why choose a natural scented candle?
Opting for a natural scented candle is a wise choice due to its health and environmental benefits. Made from natural, non-toxic ingredients, natural candles have a lower impact on human health compared to industrial candles.
Natural candles are also produced in an artisanal way, involving a meticulous and careful manufacturing process by passionate artisans. This approach guarantees superior quality and harmonious fragrances. By choosing natural candles, you support small businesses and local artisans who are dedicated to producing environmentally friendly and healthy products.
In short, choosing a natural scented candle is the best way to perfume your living space in a healthy and sustainable way, while promoting craftsmanship and respect for the environment.
What are the health risks of candle toxicity?
Candles, while creating a pleasant ambiance, can pose certain health risks, especially if they're made with inferior materials. To fully understand these risks, here are some key points to consider when making your choice:
- Paraffin: Paraffin candles are made from a petroleum derivative, and burning them can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to health. These VOCs, such as benzene and toluene, can cause headaches, respiratory irritation, and contribute to indoor air pollution. Additionally, incomplete combustion of paraffin can produce fine soot, which can accumulate on surfaces and be inhaled, posing an additional risk to respiratory health. It goes without saying that at La Petite Madeleine, we do not use paraffin wax but vegetable wax in our candles.
- Wicks: Metal wicks, especially those containing lead, can release toxic metal particles when burned. Although the use of lead in wicks is banned in many countries, it's important to check the composition of the wicks to avoid exposure to harmful metals. Lead-free cotton wicks are a safer and healthier alternative.
- Poor combustion: Inefficient combustion, due to a wick that is too long or of poor quality, can lead to the production of carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can be dangerous in case of prolonged exposure.
To minimize these health risks, it is strongly recommended to choose natural candles. These candles are made from vegetable wax and contain metal-free cotton wicks and natural fragrances made with essential oils. Natural candles offer a healthier and more environmentally friendly alternative, significantly reducing VOC emissions and the risks associated with the toxicity of poor-quality materials.
How to choose the right natural scented candle?
Here are some important selection criteria to consider before your purchase.
- Composition: Choose candles made from natural vegetable waxes such as soy, beeswax, or coconut wax. Avoid paraffin waxes made from petrochemicals, as they are less environmentally friendly and can release harmful substances.
- The wick: Choose an untreated cotton wick, free from lead and other harmful substances. A quality wick ensures a cleaner burn and optimal fragrance diffusion.
- Burn time: To fully enjoy your scented candle, choose a candle with a sufficiently long burn time, generally between 30 and 60 hours. This will allow you to enjoy its fragrance for several evenings.
- Packaging: Make sure the candle packaging is eco-friendly, such as recycled glass or cardboard. This helps preserve the environment and allows you to reuse the container once the candle is finished.
- Origin: Favor locally or artisanally made candles to support small French businesses and limit the carbon footprint linked to transport.