Article: Are candles eco friendly?
Are candles eco friendly?
Are candles eco friendly? Or, are there candles that are considered toxic and you should watch out for the next time you head to Home Goods or Ross?
To answer this question, let’s break down why certain candles are considered eco friendly (or potentially harmful), what types of candles are the most sustainable, and how to find the best eco friendly candle out there.
Are candles eco friendly?
The majority of candles are made from paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum refining. When burned, paraffin candles are said to release harmful chemicals into the air, including soot and carcinogens. In addition, most candles are made with lead wicks, which can also release harmful toxins when burned.
On the other hand, there are now many candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or vegetable wax, which are all much more environmentally friendly. These candles do not release harmful toxins when burned and are often made with natural wicks, such as cotton or hemp.
So if you’re wondering, “Are candles eco friendly?”, the answer depends on what type of candle you’re referencing.
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How to pick the best sustainable candles
There are a few key factors to consider when selecting the best eco friendly and sustainable candles.
First, you’ll want to look for a candle that’s made with natural materials, like soy or beeswax. These materials are renewable and sustainable, and they also produce far less soot than paraffin candles produce.
Second, you’ll want to pay attention to the wick. A cotton wick is a good choice, as it will burn cleanly and evenly. A lead wick can emit harmful toxins.
Finally, you’ll want to choose a candle with minimal packaging — since it all ultimately contributes to unnecessary waste. If at all possible, pick a candle that is packaged in recycled material. To make things even better, opt for a jar that can be repurposed into something else after it has been used — like a utensil or pencil holder.
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Are beeswax candles eco friendly?
Beeswax candles are certainly considered eco friendly and offer a number of advantages over other types of candles.
For starters, they burn much cleaner than other candles. As a result, they produce very little soot or smoke. This makes them ideal for people with respiratory problems or allergies.
In addition, beeswax candles emit a subtle honey scent that can be pleasing and relaxing — especially when mixed with all-natural essential oils. On top of this, they also tend to burn longer than other types of candles (sometimes as long as 90 hours), making them a more economical choice.
And finally, beeswax is a sustainable resource that can be harvested without harming bees. In fact, harvesting beeswax can actually help to ensure the health of the hive by removing wax that is no longer needed.
When bees collect nectar from flowers, they store it in a wax comb within their hive. Over time, this comb can become full of old honey and debris. Removing this comb helps the bees to keep their hive clean and tidy (and provides us with a valuable resource in the process).
Where to buy eco friendly candles
There are a number of places where you can buy eco friendly candles.
One option is to purchase them online from a retailer that specializes in eco friendly candles (or a local shop). This is usually your best option. These speciality online shops work diligently to offer an eco-friendly alternative and really pride themselves on offering something that is unique, sustainable, and high-quality
However, you can also find a variety of eco friendly candles at general retailers such as Target or Walmart. If you choose to go this route, make sure you do your due diligence. Research the brand before buying and check the ingredients on the packaging. Remember, you’ll want to opt for all-natural ingredients, sustainable packaging, and a wood or cotton wick.
