How Candles Affect Indoor Air Quality?
Candles can make a room feel cozy and inviting, but they may also quietly pollute the air inside your home. Understanding the science behind how candles affect indoor air quality can help you make better choices for your health and comfort.
The Science Behind Candle Emissions
How candles affect indoor air quality over time becomes more concerning when used frequently or in enclosed spaces. The buildup of airborne pollutants can contribute to persistent low-level exposure that impacts breathing and overall well-being.
Most Affected Candle Types
Not all candles are created equal. Here’s how various types impact indoor air quality:
- Paraffin candles: Made from petroleum byproducts, they tend to release more soot and VOCs.
- Scented candles: Added fragrances can contain synthetic chemicals that react with indoor air, potentially forming harmful compounds. The impact of scented candles on home air pollution is especially noticeable in poorly ventilated spaces or when burning multiple candles at once.
- Dyes and additives: Some candles include colorants that can increase particle emissions during burning.
On the other hand, soy and beeswax candles with natural wicks are considered cleaner alternatives but still release some particles when burned.
Health Effects to Consider
Long-term exposure to poor indoor air—especially from frequent candle use—can aggravate respiratory conditions, trigger allergic reactions, and contribute to headaches or fatigue. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollution may contain fine particles and gases that negatively affect lung health.
The health effects of burning scented candles indoors include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, especially for people with asthma or chemical sensitivities. Fine particles can also reach deep into the lungs, potentially worsening existing respiratory issues.
How to Use Candles Safely?
You don’t have to give up candles entirely. Here are a few simple tips to enjoy them while protecting your air:
- Burn candles in well-ventilated areas
- Limit use to short periods (under 4 hours)
- Trim the wick to reduce soot
- Choose clean-burning candles made with soy, beeswax, or coconut wax
- Avoid burning multiple candles at once in small rooms
Opting for safer candle options for indoor air quality such as unscented soy or beeswax candles can help reduce exposure to pollutants while still creating a soothing atmosphere.
Best Practices for Long-Term Use
For regular candle users, adopting best practices for candle use to protect air quality is crucial. This includes placing candles away from vents or fans, avoiding drafts that cause flickering (which increases soot), and using air purifiers to remove lingering particles.
Final Thoughts
Candles can be part of a relaxing and enjoyable home atmosphere. But being informed about how candles affect indoor air quality helps you make safer choices. Stick to high-quality candles, use them sparingly, and always ensure your space is well-ventilated.
For better air, better health, and better peace of mind—burn smart.
Want to keep your indoor air as clean and healthy as possible? Contact Air Max Experts today for a professional indoor air quality assessment and discover solutions that make your home safer and more comfortable.
FAQ’s
Is burning candles bad for your lungs?
Burning candles indoors can release fine particles, soot, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When inhaled, these pollutants may irritate the lungs and worsen conditions like asthma or bronchitis. While occasional use in well-ventilated areas is usually safe for most people, frequent burning can contribute to respiratory issues over time.
Are candles carcinogenic?
Some studies suggest that paraffin candles, made from petroleum byproducts, may release small amounts of potentially carcinogenic chemicals when burned, such as benzene and toluene. However, the levels are generally low. Choosing natural alternatives like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax candles can reduce this risk.
Are scented candles harmful?
Yes, scented candles can be harmful if used excessively or in unventilated rooms. The added fragrances often contain synthetic chemicals that react with indoor air, creating secondary pollutants. People with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities are most at risk of irritation from scented candle emissions.
Are candles bad for the environment?
Paraffin candles are derived from non-renewable petroleum and produce more soot and emissions, which negatively impact air quality and the environment. In contrast, soy and beeswax candles are biodegradable, renewable, and considered more eco-friendly options.