Did You Know The smoke released from Your Favourite Candle is more toxic than the car fumes at a busy intersection?
Your favourite candles are hiding something…the negative correlation between candles and indoor air quality.
Paraffin (petroleum-based) candles and scented/aromatic candles are the worst offenders—and also happen to be the most common candles on the market. Pollution from candles can contaminate the ventilation system ductwork in homes; not to mention candle pollution can also discolour walls, ceilings, and the contents of a home.
On the personal health side of things, lighting many candles frequently in an unventilated space can lead to problems such as aggravating asthma, causing allergy-like symptoms, or irritating the respiratory tract.
A report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that burning candles in enclosed spaces causes air pollution, resulting in indoor air lead concentrations above EPA recommendations. This lead is commonly found in the soot resulting from the metal-core wicks that help keep the wick standing.
If you still crave the pleasant ambiance and aroma of scented candles, don’t despair. There are safer ways to scent the air. Here are some suggestions:
- Use essential oils for fragrance. Essential oils can be placed in a diffuser or in bath water to create a wonderful aroma.
- Simmer spices. Place spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves and nutmeg in a pot of water and let it simmer on the stove.
- Create potpourri. Dried items such as flowers, berries, fruit rinds, wood chips and spices can be placed in bowls or fabric bags and placed around your home.
