There are so many candles on the market that claim to be non-toxic, but how can you tell if they’re actually non-toxic? Here's what to look for when choosing the best non-toxic candles for your home!

We've put together the ultimate guide to finding the best non-toxic candles. From the type of wax used to the ingredients in the fragrance, we've got all the info you need to make an informed decision about the candles you're bringing into your home. So, whether you're a candle newbie or a seasoned pro, we've got your back.

When it comes to creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere in your home, candles are a must-have. But let's make sure those candles are as safe and eco-friendly as possible. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and let's dive into the world of non-toxic candles together!

What's in a candle?

First, let's talk about what to look for when choosing the perfect non-toxic candle. There are three big things you want to keep in mind: the type of wax, fragrance source, and wick material.

The first is wax, which is the fuel for your candle. The second is the wick, which acts as the flame source and must be able to withstand high temperatures. Then there's fragrance—this can be an essential oil, natural fragrance or synthetic scent made from petrochemicals (more on that later).

Read More: Why Candles "Made with Essential Oils" May Not Be as Safe as You Think

Types of Waxes

Most conventional candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum. When burned, paraffin wax releases harmful chemicals such as toluene and benzene, which are known carcinogens. Not exactly the cozy atmosphere we were hoping for, right?

Luckily, there are better options out there! When it comes to natural waxes, there are three main types to keep in mind: soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax.

Soy wax is made from soybean oil, and it's a great option for a clean, even burn. Soy wax candles tend to have a longer burn time than traditional paraffin candles, and they're often less expensive too. Plus, soy wax is renewable and biodegradable, so it's a much better option for the environment.

Beeswax candles are made from, you guessed it, beeswax! This natural wax burns cleanly and emits a subtle, honey-like scent. Beeswax is also renewable and biodegradable, and it's actually the only type of wax that emits negative ions when burned. These negative ions can help purify the air in your home and promote relaxation.

Coconut wax is made from the meat of coconuts, and it's another renewable and eco-friendly option. Coconut wax candles tend to have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet scent. Plus, coconut wax is known for its clean, even burn and long-lasting performance.

At Grow Fragrance, we're all about sustainability and eco-friendliness. That's why our candles are made from a blend of 100% soy and coconut wax. They're a clean, even-burning option that you can feel good about using in your home. So, let's ditch the paraffin wax and light up some natural, eco-friendly candles that are way better for you and the planet!

FAQ: Can Soy Wax be Non-GMO?

Soy wax has become a popular alternative to traditional paraffin wax due to its natural and eco-friendly properties. However, there is a common misconception that soy wax can be certified organic and non-GMO. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

The process that turns soy oil into wax cannot be certified organic, which means that certified organic, non-GMO soy wax does not exist. This is because the process involves hydrogenation, which uses a nickel catalyst. The nickel catalyst cannot be certified organic, which means the resulting soy wax cannot be certified organic either.

However, don't despair! There are still ways to make sure that the soy wax used in candles is of high quality and doesn't contain any synthetic contaminants.

For example, you can choose soy wax that's sourced from American farms and processed in the USA. This is what we do with our soy wax, and it ensures that our candles are made with the best possible ingredients.

To further ensure that our soy wax is free from synthetic contamination, we use a U.S. Department of Agriculture test that certifies our products are 100% plant-based. This means that our candles don't contain any herbicides, like glyphosate, or pesticides that can be harmful to your health.

So, while certified organic, non-GMO soy wax isn't a thing, there are still ways to make sure that your candles are eco-friendly and natural. By choosing soy wax that's sourced and processed responsibly, and by testing for synthetic contamination, you can enjoy candles that are both beautiful and safe.

Fragrance Source: What to Look For

You might be surprised to learn that most candle fragrances are actually made from synthetic chemicals like phthalates. These chemicals are used to make the scents last longer, but they've also been linked to hormone disruption in both men and women. Yikes!

So, what can you do if you want to enjoy candles without exposing yourself to potentially harmful chemicals? Look for candles that are scented with essential oils or natural fragrances instead! That way, you can enjoy the beautiful scents of candles without worrying about what you're breathing in.

At Grow, we use plant extracts and essential oils to create our signature scents, which are not only free from harmful chemicals but may also offer therapeutic benefits like stress relief and relaxation.

So not only do these candles smell amazing, but they may also help you feel more calm and centered. Win-win!

Ingredient Transparency is Key

Transparency is key, especially when it comes to fragrance ingredients. You deserve to know exactly what you're bringing into your home, which is why we're all about sharing every single ingredient that goes into our candles, including the fragrance ingredients! No secrets here.

Unfortunately, many conventional candle manufacturers aren't as upfront about what's in their candles. They hide behind the vague term "fragrance" on their ingredient lists, which often means they're using synthetic fragrances made from a sketchy mixture of potentially harmful chemicals. Some of these chemicals can even trigger allergies, asthma attacks, or mess with your hormones. 

That's why it's so important to choose candles from companies that are transparent about their ingredients.

When you know exactly what's in your candles, you can enjoy the ambiance and the amazing scents without worrying about what you're breathing in. So, let's demand transparency from our candle makers and light those non-toxic candles with confidence!

See More: What's the Fragrance Loophole?

Essential Oils in Candles

You've probably heard the term "made with essential oils" thrown around a lot, and yeah, essential oils are what give a candle its scent. But here's the thing: just because a candle has essential oils in it doesn't automatically make it safe!

A lot of companies use essential oils in their candles, but they mix them with other chemicals to make them stronger or cheaper. So, you might be getting a measly 1% essential oils and 99% synthetic petrochemicals! Not cool.

If you want to make sure you're getting a truly non-toxic candle, your best bet is to look for brands that disclose ALL of their ingredients, including what makes up their "fragrance."

See More: What's the Difference Between Plant Extracts & Essential Oils?

The Basics of Wicks

Wondering what a wick is and how it works? A candle's wick is the material that keeps your flame burning.

The purpose of a wick is simple: it acts as a bridge between the flame and the wax or oil inside the candle. When you light your candle, the flame heats up the wick until it becomes hot enough to light the wax or oil inside the candle. Once this happens, the fuel burns down through the wick into your candle and creates light while also releasing fragrance into your home.

Most conventional candles use wicks made from cotton, but here's the thing: those wicks might be treated with some sketchy chemicals like bleach or lead. No thanks!

For a clean burn, look for candles with wicks made from natural materials such as wood, hemp, or unbleached cotton.

At Grow, we're all about safety first. That's why our candles are made using lead-free, unbleached cotton wicks. It's the perfect option for a clean, safe burn that you can enjoy without any worries.

See more: What's In Our Candles

Why Choose Grow Fragrance Candles?

Our candles check all the boxes for a clean burn. They're made from sustainable soy and coconut wax, scented with 100% plant-based fragrances, and feature a natural lead-free, unbleached cotton wick. It's like all the good stuff rolled into one beautiful, eco-friendly package!

But we don't just stop at non-toxic ingredients. We believe that candles should be more than just a pretty scent - they should transport you to a world inspired by nature.

So, if you want to enjoy the warm glow and inviting atmosphere of a candle without worrying about potential health risks, 100% plant-based candles may be the way to go. And if you want a candle that's not only safe, but also inspired by nature and unique, look no further than Grow Fragrance!

Here are our Best Selling, Eco-Friendly & Toxin Free Candles

1. Blondewood Candle

With notes of vanilla bean, shea butter, teakwood, and almond, this warm scent creates a peaceful and inviting environment.

Vanilla is known for its calming properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. The almond and shea butter notes in the Blondewood candle add an extra layer of comfort, while the teakwood provides a subtle grounding effect.

 Blondewood Candle

2. Lavender Blossom Candle

A relaxing candle with notes of lavender, peony and citrus you can add to your routine with peace of mind. 

Lavender is known for its calming properties, helping to soothe your mind and ease stress. It's also great for promoting restful sleep, making it perfect for your evening routine.

Lavender Blossom Candle

3. Bamboo Candle

A fresh and spa-like with notes of green foliage, citrus and pink peppercorn.

Citrus scents like the one in Bamboo are known for their energizing properties, helping to uplift your mood and improve concentration. The green foliage notes in this scent provide a refreshing and crisp scent, while the pink peppercorn adds a subtle spice.