Derek Ma, MSc
When I would visit a friend’s place that frequently burned candles, I noticed my chest tightened and my throat got scratchy—I even started to cough and wheeze. At first, I blamed allergies or stress, but I soon realized that being around certain scented candles always made my breathing worse.
So as a scientist, I started investigating.
I quickly discovered that many standard candles are made from paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct) and contain synthetic fragrances and dyes.
I learned that burning them can release chemicals such as benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde—airborne irritants not ideal for anyone, let alone someone like me who has asthma.
That led to me researching what the Top 10 Best Non-Toxic Candles and Brands are today, which I’m excited to share with you.
But first, let’s talk science!
What Candles Are Bad for Your Health?
1. Paraffin Wax Candles
Paraffin is the most common candle wax, derived from petroleum. Burning paraffin candles can release a range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as:
- Benzene (a known carcinogen)
- Toluene (affecting the nervous system)
- Formaldehyde (a probable carcinogen)
- Other substances like acetone, xylene, and styrene
Potential Health Issues
- Headaches
- Respiratory irritation and worsened asthma
- Increased risk of cancer with heavy, long-term, or poorly ventilated use
- Nausea and indoor allergy-like symptoms in sensitive individuals
While some studies find emissions to be below strict safety thresholds under normal use, others note that burning paraffin candles regularly—especially in unventilated spaces—may increase long-term health risks. (1)
2. Candles with Synthetic Fragrances & Dyes
Synthetic fragrances can contain chemicals like phthalates and parabens. Synthetic fragrance scented candles are more likely to cause (2):
- Headaches
- Allergies
- Possible hormone disruption (from phthalates)
- Worsened air quality in small or unventilated rooms
3. Candles with Metallic-Core Wicks
Lead was historically used in candle wicks to help them stand straight and burn efficiently. (3)
Burning metallic-core wicks can release toxic heavy metals into your home’s air.
However, lead-core wicks have largely been banned, but older or imported candles could still contain them.
Common Certifications to Trust
| Certification | Focus Area | Main Benefits |
| MADE SAFE | Non-toxicity, Health | No known harmful toxins or pollutants |
| Ecocert | Organic, Natural | GMO-free, no synthetics, sustainable packaging |
| Soil Association | Organic Integrity | Organic, ethical, no pesticides or GMOs |
| USDA BioBased | Renewable Content | Confirms % plant/renewable origin |
What Makes a Candle Truly “Non-Toxic”?
A genuinely non-toxic candle will:
- Use natural waxes (beeswax, coconut, or soy) instead of paraffin or unidentified “wax blends.”
- Feature lead-free, unbleached cotton, hemp, or wood wicks.
- Be scented exclusively with pure essential oils or phthalate-free natural extracts.
- Avoid any dyes, parabens, or synthetic fragrances.
1. Fontana Candle Co.
- Amazon Rating: 4.1 out of 5.0 (141 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Wood
- Wax used: Beeswax
Details: These candles are Made Safe Certified, use beeswax, coconut oil, and 100% essential oils. They’re frequently highlighted as some of the cleanest-burning, non-toxic candles available
2. Peacesake
- Amazon Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 (5 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Cotton
- Wax Used: Soy
Details: These handmade candles are made with 100% soy wax and cotton wicks that are free from lead and zinc. They are scented with pure essential oils and phthalate-free fragrances.
3. Living Good Candle Co
- Amazon Rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (265 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Cotton
- Wax Used: Beeswax
Details: These candles are phthalate-free, sulfate-free, and paraben-free made with 100% cotton wicks, ensuring no soot and a clean burn without harsh chemicals.
4. Bluecorn
- Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (319 Ratings)
- Wick Type: non-metal core
- Wax Used: Beeswax
Details: These candles are handmade in Colorado and are scented with all-natural and non-toxic blends of pure essential oils and botanical extracts.
5. Mrs Meyers Clean Day
- Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (8,529 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Lead-free
- Wax Used: Soy and Vegetable
Details: This popular candle is made from plant-derived ingredients like soy wax and vegetable wax and other thoughtfully-chosen ingredients.
6. Slow North
- Amazon Rating: 4.1 out of 5.0 (74 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Cotton
- Wax Used: Soy
Details: Each candle is hand-poured in Austin, Texas, using 100% soy wax and only pure essential oils for fragrance—no synthetic perfumes or dyes.
7. Hemlock Park
- Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5.0 (2,297 Ratings)
- Wick Type: FSC-certified wood
- Wax Used: Coconut
Details: Created in the Sierra Nevadas, each candle is thoughtfully made in small batches with natural, plant-based ingredients and features a signature crackling wood wick for a tranquil fireplace effect.
8. Craft and Kin
- Amazon Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (7,233 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Wood
- Wax Used: Soy
Details: Designed in California, these candles are made for men and feature clean-burning soy wax, essential oils, and sleek, minimalist vessels that complement any decor.
9. LuLu Candles
- Amazon Rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 (6,960 Ratings)
- Wick Type: Cotton
- Wax Used: Soy
Details: Hand-poured in the USA and Latina-owned, Lulu crafts each candle with a soy-blend wax and premium fragrance oils
10. Terralite
- Amazon Rating: Not sold on Amazon
- Wick Type: Hemp-core
- Wax Used: Coconut
Details: These candles are scented with pure essential oils and extracts from plants that were grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Honorable Mentions
Rowe Casa Organics
- Wick Type: Organic Hemp
- Wax Used: Beeswax
- Details: These candles are scented with pure 100% essential oils.
Bee Lucia
- Wick Type: Cotton
- Wax Used: Beeswax
- Details: Made with a blend of beeswax and coconut oil, these candles use only 100% pure essential oils for their fragrance—offering a clean, toxin-free burn. Each candle is enhanced with natural crystals, like amethyst or quartz, chosen for their wellness properties and visual appeal.
Skar Organics
- Amazon Rating: Not sold on Amazon
- Wick Type: Cotton
- Wax Used: Beeswax
- Details: Every candle is meticulously handcrafted in Yorkshire, England using certified organic beeswax and organic cotton wicks—and is fully certified by the Soil Association.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are soy candles always non-toxic?
Not always. Check for pesticide-free, non-GMO soy and avoid added synthetic scents or dyes.
Are all scented candles safe?
No. Synthetic fragrances can emit harmful VOCs. Look for “essential-oil-only” in the scented candle description.
Look for candles specifically described as “scented with essential oils” or “phthalate-free”.
Can non-toxic candles still have a strong scent?
Yes, many non-toxic brands use high concentrations of pure essential oils for a natural but noticeable fragrance.
Are candles with color dyes bad for you?
It’s safest to avoid candles with artificial colorants, as some dyes can release particles or chemicals when burned. Naturally colored or dye-free candles are better for indoor air quality.
Are NEST Candles considered Non-toxic?
NEST candles primarily use a proprietary blend with a food-grade paraffin wax base in its scented candles. Some scents may include other FDA-approved ingredients like cosmetic-grade soy, but paraffin is the main component. NEST fragrances use both natural and synthetic ingredients. NEST Candle Wicks are a cotton or paper/cotton blend.
References
- Indoor Air Pollution, Related Human Diseases, and Recent Trends in the Control and Improvement of Indoor Air Quality
- Love Scented Candles? Beware Of It’s Hidden Dangers
- Candle Wicks Containing Lead
Read Next
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What Is FD&C Blue 1 and is it Bad for You?
What are Parabens & Why are They Bad? From a Scientist
PFAS: Meaning, Definition, and How to Avoid
What are Phthalates? Pronunciation and Definition
What is Fragrance Made of? Ingredients List & Health Risks
