It’s time to swap toxic paraffin for soy candles for zero petro.
We all love a good scented candle. What you may not love is burning a candle that burns off toxic soot. Conventional candles contain several carcinogen compounds (cancer-causing agents). These tiny soot particles can potentially penetrate the deepest area of the lungs. This is especially detrimental to the very young and elderly who are most prone to respiratory diseases.
A 2009 study by South Carolina State University found that burning paraffin wax candles give off harmful fumes (toluene and benzene) which is linked to asthma and lung cancer. Also, a 2004 study by Maastricht University discovered levels of potentially carcinogenic polycyclic hydrocarbons in churches, presumably due to the burning of low-quality paraffin wax candles over long periods of time. In response, in 2007 the European Candle Association and the National Candle Association conducted an industry-funded study. Both reported that none of the candle waxes tested, including paraffin wax, soy wax and beeswax, produced benzene.
This resulted in a huge debate. It left consumers leaning toward soy and beeswax candles being the more sustainable options. Let’s explore some of those options now.
Among the soy-based trending candles is Lulu’s candles. Lulu’s candles are a consumer favorite. Lulu’s soy candles are made in the U.S.A. They are vegan, paraben and cruelty free. The most loved attribute of Lulu’s candles is that they burn longer than most any other candle on the market. Lulu’s candles are very fragrant. The aromas are subtle, but noticeable. However Lulu’s does use artificial fragrances putting a bit of a dent in the whole safe candle alternative deal. Though a bit on the pricey side Lulu’s candles may still be worth the investment. Offered in an impressive array of scents Lulu’s produces candles that you are sure to love.
Another consumer fav is Chesapeake Bay’s soy candles. Chesapeake Bay’s soy candles may just be the safest candle alternative on the market. These candles come in a stunning frosted glass jar making for a chic, serene aesthetic. Most distinctively, Chesapeake Bay’s candles are infused with essential oils offering us a wonderful array of natural scents. Like Lulu’s these candles burn clean forever, up to 50 hours. Chesapeake Bay candles provide a serene sensory journey that is well worth the try.
Mrs. Meyers Clean Day is most well-known for laundry detergents, household cleaners and hand soap. However, as of late they have added candle-making to their roster. Mrs. Meyers Clean Day’s candles are made of soy and vegetable wax. These candles burn up to 35 hours and come in a recyclable glass jar. The only con about Mrs. Meyers Clean Day candles is that they are not scented with essential oil. It appears that the fragrance is artificial, which takes us back to square one with the toxic fumes.
The candle industry is clearly making changes for the better. Perhaps more of them will swap out the artificial fragrances for plant-based ones in the near future. In the meantime, we can enjoy the progress made in the offering of a cleaner burn.
Are you ready to swap toxic paraffin for soy candles for zero petro?
