10 Best Non-Toxic Candles in 2022 (GoodLight, Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day, and More)
Traditional candles–particularly the scented ones–can often leave you with a headache or your bookcase covered in soot. This is not exactly the relaxing environment you’re looking for. So we researched materials and pored through Amazon reviews and came to the conclusion that the best candles for you and your home are non-toxic and free from paraffin, phthalates, and lead. These candles are often soy- or beeswax-based and scented with all-natural essential oils.
We kept all of this in mind as we hand-picked the best non-toxic candles on the market! Discover why Old Factory's Scented Candles were our favorite, and explore other options using our handy buying guide at the end. Also, check out our tip on how to best use your candle at the very bottom of this article!
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How to Choose a Non-Toxic Candle – Buying Guide
Points to Consider:
- Look for Lead-Free and Non-Metal Wicks
- Go Paraffin-Free Wax With Soy or Beeswax
- Steer Clear of Artificial Fragrances Full of Phthalates
Look for Lead-Free and Non-Metal Wicks
Go Paraffin-Free Wax With Soy or Beeswax
The most common ingredient used to make candle wax is paraffin. Paraffin is a petroleum byproduct that creates carcinogenic compounds like benzene and toluene when burned—the same toxins found in diesel fuel fumes, actually.
Some safer alternatives include soy and beeswax, among a few other plant-based oils. But don’t be fooled by clever packaging. Many beeswax and ‘soy blend’ candles still contain paraffin, so be sure to check that the candle is paraffin-free before deeming it safe.
Steer Clear of Artificial Fragrances Full of Phthalates
Have you ever gone into a soap store and walked out with a headache from the smell? That’s because artificial fragrances are full of chemicals called phthalates. Phthalates can cause a wide range of health issues from headaches and dizziness to respiratory issues and potentially cancer.
So to avoid these nasty chemicals, look for candles that are scented naturally with essential oils and botanical extracts. As always, be sure to look for candles that specifically say they’re phthalate-free for peace of mind.
10 Best Non-Toxic Candles
Products | Image | Click to purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Old Factory Scented Candles｜3 pack |  | |
2 | Benevolence LA Premium Soy Scented Candle｜Hibiscus & Palmwood |  | |
3 | Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Scented Soy Candle｜Lavender |  | |
4 | Pure Integrity Soy Candles Strong Scented Candle｜Vanilla Almond Soy |  | |
5 | Little Bee of Connecticut Hand-Rolled Beeswax Candle |  | |
6 | GoodLight Tea Light Candles｜100 count |  | |
7 | Lulu Candles Luxury Scented Soy Jar Candle｜Fresh Linen, 6 oz. |  | |
8 | Aira Soy Candle｜Honeysuckle |  | |
9 | Illumisense Premium Scented Candle |  | |
10 | Pet House Candle 100% Natural Soy Wax Candle｜Lavender Green Tea |  |
Reviewers felt that these candles were too tiny, being each the size of a tea candle. However, despite the size, most people agree that these candles smell wonderful and are of great quality.
Benevolence LAPremium Soy Scented Candle ｜ Hibiscus & Palmwood
Recommended for:
Critical reviewers mention problems with the scent. It was either too strong or, more likely, not strong enough. Almost everyone agreed, however, that these candles were packaged beautifully. Reviewers who like the candle described it as giving off a subtle glow and light scent.
Recommended for:
This candle is fairly small, which means that the scent won’t travel too far and some reviewers were not a fan of the scent, describing the lavender as non-typical of the floral smell you'd usually think of.
A couple also found that they weren't able to burn until the end of the wick. However, other reviewers like how it isn't overpowering, covers up smells well, and lasts a long time.
Pure Integrity Soy CandlesStrong Scented Candle ｜ Vanilla Almond Soy
Recommended for:
Critical reviewers report mixed feelings about the scent, saying that they were not as fragrant as advertised. Some also experience their candles burning their jars, so it's best not to use this when sleeping. Most reviewers appreciate the handwritten note included and the pleasant smell of the candle.
Little Bee of ConnecticutHand-Rolled Beeswax Candle
Recommended for:
According to some, beeswax produces negative ions when burned, which helps to clean the air of dust, pollen, and odors. Whether that’s true (or significant enough to be noticed, anyway), it definitely doesn’t add to indoor air pollution.
Some reviewers say that this candle burns out too quickly and, since the scent is very minimal, can get covered up by any other smells in the house. Other reviewers say that the candle melts down in an interesting stained glass-like pattern and burns evenly and faintly.
Recommended for:
Some reviewers say that their packages arrived with missing candles—it might be best to check with the shipper before purchasing. Others were happy that these were non-scented and didn't produce any smoke. If you don't want to commit to 100 pieces, you can also get a pack of six—in a relaxing lavender—here.
Lulu CandlesLuxury Scented Soy Jar Candle ｜ Fresh Linen, 6 oz.
Recommended for:
While it’s uncertain whether this candle is truly paraffin- and phthalate-free, reviewers report no issues with reactions and note that the scents are light, which is consistent with natural fragrances.
Reviewers felt this product was too small for the price and that the scents could be hit-or-miss. Many more reviewers enjoyed the scent of Pineapple Evergreen, in particular, saying that it's fragrant, not overpowering, and long-lasting.
Recommended for:
Some reviewers note that a few of the scents can be overpowering or smell synthetic. While the candle claims to be scented with essential oils, it doesn’t state specifically that it’s phthalate- or chemical-free.
Most reviewers were satisfied with how long these candles lasted and how well they worked to scent large spaces. You can use it over a long period of time by trimming the wick between each use.
This candle doesn’t state that it’s specifically paraffin- and phthalate-free, though it doesn’t seem to cause any issues amongst reviewers. So if you’re not particularly sensitive, it should be fine.
Other critical reviewers say that the candle doesn't have a very strong scent; however, the majority of reviewers love the elegant packaging, say it lasts long and has a soft aroma, and is good for gifting.
Pet House Candle100% Natural Soy Wax Candle ｜ Lavender Green Tea
Recommended for:
Some reviewers complain that the scent isn't strong enough, but top raters argue that the purpose of this candle isn't to scent - it's to deodorize. And those five-star raters claim that it works like a charm for stinky humans as well as pets. Also, check out this odor eliminator to pair with the candle if you're needing something even more powerful to take out those smells.
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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
