10/04/2025
Do you love the warm and cosy feel of candles as much as I do?
Unfortunately, candles can also lead to exposure to harmful chemicals, and poor indoor air quality. Don’t shoot the messenger, lol.
✖ Scented candles release a cocktail of chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), and particulate matter - all of which can be harmful to our health.
✖ Inhaling VOCs is linked to irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat; shortness of breath, headaches, and nausea, and many VOCs are known carcinogens.
✖ Scented candles are also typically made with synthetic fragrances, which can contain galaxolide, a commonly used synthetic musk, along with phthalates; both are hormone-disrupting chemicals. Even small amounts of these chemicals, especially phthalates are linked to health issues.
✖ These chemicals can be released even when a candle isn’t lit.
✖ And, when you do light a candle, it can release particulate matter - tiny particles that can be inhaled and which are harmful to our lungs.
✖ Once released, these chemicals don’t just vanish; they settle into our household dust where they can remain for a long time. Research has detected phthalates and galaxolide in 100% of tested samples of house dust!
Unscented candles are definitely better, but even they can release harmful particulates. Use them sparingly and with good ventilation - ie, open a window or have an air filter running.
➡️ Consider natural alternatives - simmer a pot of aromatics like cloves, cinnamon, and citrus; use flowers; diffuse essential oils or look for natural candles (i.e. beeswax, coconut oil) scented with essential oils.
Do you use candles?
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