WAX
Candles made in Australia nowadays can be a source of non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs), which can contribute to indoor pollution. While some conventional candles are made using stearin, which can derive from animal fat that can be horrendously impactful on the environment. The same can be said for the other leading ingredient used in candle-making: paraffin.
Widely known as the highly combustible substance used to fuel jet engines and rockets, paraffin is a byproduct of crude oil that creates and releases toxic benzene and toluene chemicals – both of which are carcinogenic – when burned. Candles, which can burn for around seven to nine hours for each ounce of wax used, enable these chemicals to be released directly into your homes and your airways. It’s like turning your living room into the next miniature rocket launch pad for NASA. Breathing these candles in is as bad as inhaling second-hand smoke, so you can only imagine how millions of them could impact the environment without us realising.
Sometimes you’ll get caught out when it says ‘made from unspecified blends’, which is basically code for paraffin or other synthetic ingredients weaselling their way in.
More sustainable candle options will opt for natural ingredients like beeswax, coconut wax, rapeseed wax, soy wax, or like our delightful candles made from Coconut Soy Wax.
WICKS
The safest – and most eco-friendly – candle wicks are made from natural and clean-burning materials such as cotton, hemp or wood. Extra tip: keep your candle away from drafts to prevent it from producing soot.
Your final hot tip is to cut the wick before lighting the candle. You’ll get a cleaner burn.
PERFUME
Another thing to look out for when candle shopping is artificial fragrance, which like paraffin and lead can release harmful chemicals when put under fire. Many fragrances can contain phthalates (a chemical used in all kinds of household products), which can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive system if exposed to it for long periods of time. In numerous studies, phthalates has also been linked to asthma, breast cancer, neurodevelopment issues and many other health disorders and issues.
That's why we use Essential Oils and Natural fragrances to make them safer, eco-friendly and concentrated (Long Lasting)
PACKAGING
Candles (to nobody’s surprise) are one of the top gift ideas for birthdays and special occasions. However, this means that many candles now come in excessive amounts of packaging that is usually plastic-based and non-recyclable – and therefore destined for the landfill.
Simple is best when it comes to candle design: think paper labels, reusable jars and unfussy packaging. Let the candle shine on its own without the added pomp of elaborate plastic packaging.
Check out our great variety of the Best Eco-Friendly Candles on the market, Made from Natural ingredients, adding many extra details for luxury and pampering, giving you hours of delicious burning scents.