Why are Candles Toxic? + a Better Alternative

Some of the links in this post are sponsored or affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Read my full disclosure here.

I’ll just start this post out with a bomb: candles are terrible for you! They wreak havoc on your respiratory system and cause so many other issues, many of which appear on your skin. Candles become even more of a problem because they are typically used in a confined area such as bedrooms. But there must be something better out there, right?

Are Candles Really That Bad?

Most candles are formed with paraffin wax. Although that sounds harmless, it is actually very dangerous. Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum and is a by-product of gasoline production, YUCK.

As the wick gradually burns, it also burns the wax which turns from solid-to liquid-to gas spreading around your room. Not only is carbon dioxide released in the process, but also released is each and every chemical that was used to form the wax. This includes known carcinogens like benzene, toluene, and acetone.

Each of these chemicals are known VOCs, or volatile organic compounds. They are released into the air from products like candles, cleaning products, air fresheners, paints, and cigarettes, among others. Ingredients such as these VOCs are dangerous in the long run (ahem, cancer), but can also harm the body immediately. They show up as allergies, asthma, and skin conditions, just to name a few.

These companies creating all of our products clearly don’t care about the ingredients, so we need to be mindful about what we purchase. We are the gatekeepers of our homes. We may not be able to control things in the environment, but we DO have full control of items we bring into our own homes and use on its surfaces!

Okay, But It Can’t Be THAT Bad, Right?

Sadly, wrong! Putting all the other chemicals aside, there still remains fragrance – aka “trade secrets.” Companies can bundle together dozens of ingredients (many harmful) and use the umbrella terms fragrance and parfum to keep them hidden. They get around transparency by claiming their fragrance is a “proprietary blend.” In this way, these companies are deceitful, and continually trick their customers.

Endocrine disruptors (your hormones!) and cancer causing ingredients are often found in hidden fragrance bundles.

The fact is that candles seriously affect air quality. As they burn, candles release nasty chemicals that you breathe in, and this is exacerbated if you’re in a closed room indoors. Even soy and more natural candles still release toxins into the air. If you already have respiratory issues such as asthma, throwing out candles would be the first thing I would suggest.

So What Can I Use To Replace Candles?

Luckily there are some amazing alternatives, for both scent and ambiance.

“But what about the aesthetics?!”

Girl, I got you! Enter: diffusers. Not only are they gorgeous with different lighting and color options, they are also so much cheaper than buying separate candles. And of course not only are they safer for you, but air emitted by diffusers are actually beneficial to breathe in when combined with quality essential oils!

Diffusers are a healthy swap for candles, because they use essential oils rather than burning toxic wax. You can customize each scent, and many come with lights so they can replace the glowing look of a candle if that is what you’re after. Check out this blog post for my favorite diffuser blends for any occasion.

An added bonus of switching to a diffuser would also be saving tons of money! Just one candle (from bath and body works) will cost you around $25, whereas you can use one diffuser for every scent combo you want to try, just swapping out the essential oils.

There Are So Many Choices, So Which Diffuser Should I Buy?

My favorite essential oil company has some STUNNING diffusers that use medical grade plastic that doesn’t break down. Of course, you can buy one from Amazon or Target, but just know it might not last very long. Below are my favorite diffusers, and BONUS – you get 24% off at checkout! Each of the Young Living diffusers come with two free oils as well!

Aria Ultrasonic Diffuser – the QUEEN of all diffusers, I mean just look at her!!!! it even comes with a remote control

Desert Mist Diffuser – my go-to diffuser, nothing too fancy but still looks good on any counter

Snowy the Owl Diffuser – so, so cute, especially if you have kids

Lucia Artisan Diffuser – a gorgeous, hand blown glass diffuser #fancy

If you would like to browse more high-quality diffusers, check out this website. If you end up getting a diffuser from Young Living, make sure to message me so I can send you a welcome gift!

Here are some cute diffusers I found available for purchase on Amazon – disclaimer, I have not personally tried any from Amazon.

Amazon Basics Ceramic Diffuser with Wood Base, Circle Pattern (White)

SG Essentials Circular Wooden Grain Diffuser/Cool Mist Humidifier (White)

VIVITEST Ceramic/Stone Diffuser with Wood Base (White)

Don’t forget to drop a comment! I’d love to know how long you’ve been diffusing, or which one you’re going to buy! Subscribe to Health with KJ to stay up to date with the latest posts!