4 Things to Look for When Buying Eco Friendly Scented Candles
If you prefer to light healthy candles, choosing eco-friendly scented candles is a must. When shopping for these organic scented candles, you should look for four things: natural candle wax, eco wicks, organic candle scents, and environmentally friendly glass and packaging.
In this guide, we’ll show and explain all of these key features of eco-friendly scented candles to ensure you make the best, most sustainable choice.
1. Organic Wax Makes Eco-Friendly Scented Candles
Between the different wax types in scented candles, it's important to choose an eco friendly candle wax. These natural waxes are not only more sustainable but also burn cleaner and are the key component in non toxic candles.
The most common candle wax types in scented candles are soy wax and coconut wax. These natural waxes are both biodegradable and renewable and have similar yet slightly different qualities. For our sustainable candles, we use a blend of both to create healthy candles with a clean burn and excellent scent throw.
Conventional scented candles are often made with paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum refining. In contrast, organic waxes are sourced from plants which significantly reduces the carbon footprint and environmental damage associated with candle production.
2. Natural and Unbleached Eco Candle Wicks
Most people already know about the differences in candle waxes but only a few think about the wicks. Many scented candle producers use bleached wicks due to their bright white color. However, using eco wicks is much better and cleaner as bleached wicks release residues of this bleach into the air.
Eco-friendly candle wicks come in various forms, including cotton and wooden wicks. Cotton wicks are often more common due to their clean burn and lack of toxins, while wooden wicks offer a unique aesthetic and are best known for their crackling sound reminiscent of a fireplace.
Aside from choosing unbleached wicks, you should also make sure to use all-natural wicks which ensures that no toxic chemicals or heavy metals are released during burning. Some conventional wicks contain lead or zinc cores, which can be harmful when inhaled. Our natural wicks, on the other hand, provide a safer, more eco-friendly alternative.
3. All Natural Fragrance Oils
Fragrance oils can be either synthetic or natural. Natural fragrance oils are derived from plant-based sources, such as essential oils, which are extracted from flowers, leaves, and other parts of plants. These oils offer a purer, more authentic scent compared to their synthetic counterparts.
Natural fragrance oils are non-toxic and less likely to cause allergic reactions, making them a healthier choice for your home. Additionally, eco-friendly extraction methods for organic candle scents, such as steam distillation, ensure that these oils are produced without harming the environment.
Our all-natural scented candles offer a wide range of natural scents, from calming lavender to wild rose or invigorating citrus notes.
4. Eco-Friendly Glass and Packaging
The materials used for packaging and containers are another crucial element for the overall eco-friendliness of a scented candle. Look for candles that come in (recycled) glass containers, which can be reused or recycled again after the candle is burned. Biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials also reduce waste and environmental impact.
Minimalist packaging designs not only look elegant but also help in reducing waste. Some brands offer refillable candle containers, allowing you to purchase wax refills and reuse the same container multiple times.
Conclusion
Choosing eco-friendly scented candles is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to a more sustainable future. By opting for candles made with organic wax, natural wicks, all-natural fragrance oils, and eco-friendly packaging, you can enjoy beautiful aromas while minimizing your environmental footprint.
The best thing is, they don't have to be expensive. Craft Society offers a wide selection of affordable, eco friendly scented candles. Each and every candle is made by hand in Germany.
FAQs
What makes a scented candle eco-friendly?
All natural scented candles are made from sustainable materials such as organic wax, natural wicks, and natural fragrance oils. They also use eco-friendly packaging to minimize environmental impact.
How can I identify if a candle uses organic wax?
Look for labels that specify the type of wax used, such as soy, beeswax, or coconut wax. Additionally, certifications from reputable organizations can indicate the use of organic wax.
Are wooden wicks better for the environment than cotton wicks?
Both wooden and cotton wicks can be eco-friendly if they are sourced sustainably and are free from toxic chemicals. The main difference is that wooden wicks provide a unique aesthetic and crackling sound, while cotton wicks are known for their clean burn.
Can natural fragrance oils cause allergies?
Natural fragrance oils are generally less likely to cause allergies compared to synthetic fragrances. However, it's important to check for any specific allergies to certain essential oils.
What should I do with the candle container after use?
Reuse or recycle the container if it's made of glass or other recyclable materials.
How to Make Eco-Friendly Scented Candles?
Organic scented candles are made by using sustainable ingredients wax (like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax), eco-friendly candle scents like natural essential oils, and eco-friendly wicks (such as cotton or wood).