I’ll be the first to admit: there was a time when it was quantity over quality for me when it came to candles. But once I got into candle making, that all changed. Here's what I learned about the candle industry, and why quality is important:
- Unless stated otherwise, most candles are made with paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct of gasoline. When paraffin wax candles are burned, they can potentially release chemicals into your home (like benzene, a known carcinogen). Not only does this effect the quality of your indoor air, but it can also potentially impact your health.
- Since you are breathing in what you burn, it’s important to look for candles made from natural waxes like beeswax, soy or coconut. Not only are these waxes cleaner, but they burn slower, so you get a clean burning candle that lasts two or three times as long. Plant-based waxes like Coconut Apricot and Soy are also are made from renewable sources and are biodegradable, so it's a good choice for the environment, too.
- Scented candles are typically mixed with fragrance oils (this is what gives them their smell), but not all fragrance oils are created equal. When shopping for candles, look for companies that use “phthalate-free fragrances” in their candles. Phthalates are chemicals commonly found in fragrance oils that are used to extend the aromatic strength of candle and body fragrances. However, research has shown that repeated exposure to phthalates can potentially have negative impacts on the endocrine system, which regulate your hormones and reproductive system, and can trigger allergies.
- It’s always a good idea to light your candle in a well-ventilated room. This is generally a good rule of thumb to follow when burning all types of candle, even ones made from plant-based waxes.
- Purchasing from a local candle company supports not one, but several small businesses. Our candle jars, wax, fragrances, and cotton wicks all come from different American small businesses. As a customer, you’re getting the highest quality, clean burning, and long lasting candle possible.
Have a question about Two River Candle Company or our candles? Leave us a comment below or check out our FAQ page for more information.