Are Chlorine Scented Candles Safe or Harmful to Burn?

Chlorine Scented Candles - Are They Safe?

Candles are a popular home accessory used to create cozy ambiance and pleasant scents. But some candles mimic less desirable odors like chlorine. Are chlorine scented candles safe to burn or do they pose health risks?

What Gives Candles Their Scents?

Most scented candles are made by adding fragrance oils to wax, a process called fragrance load. These synthetic oil blends contain various chemicals and compounds to produce the desired aroma.

Common chemicals used in candle fragrances include:

• Benzaldehyde - almond scent
• Camphor - minty smells
• Eugenol - spicy cloves
• Limonene - citrus fruits
• Linalool - floral bouquets

These and many other ingredients are combined in different formulas to create complex scents. But some fragrances do contain questionable compounds.

How Are Chlorine Scents Created?

Authentic chlorine scented candles try to mimic the smell of swimming pools and bleach. They often contain fragrances like:

• Trichloromethane - bleachy, medicinal scent
• Bromochloromethane - chemical, slightly sweet odor
• Chlorophenol - harsh, antiseptic smell

These chlorinated compounds and other additive chemicals reproduce the sharp, pungent odor we associate with chlorine. But are these volatile substances actually safe to inhale?

Potential Health Risks of Chlorine Candles

All scented candles release VOCs - volatile organic compounds - into the air when burned. And chlorine candles contain VOCs that could be problematic when inhaled, including:

• Respiratory irritation - nose, throat, lung irritation
• Headaches - from reactive VOC byproducts
• Allergic reactions - skin, eyes, breathing
• Kidney dysfunction - some VOCs are nephrotoxic
• Hormone disruption - mimics/blocks natural hormones

Studies on chlorinated drinking water provide further insights into risks like cancer and reproductive harm from long-term chlorine byproduct exposure.

Tips for Safer Use of Chlorine Candles

Those wishing to use chlorine scented candles can follow certain precautions to minimize health impacts:

• Ventilate room well while burning candle
• Keep wick trimmed to 14 inch to reduce soot
• Avoid burning for more than 1-2 hours
• Store unlit candle in airtight container
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Discontinue use if any symptoms develop

Never leave a burning candle unattended. Stop using immediately if you experience any irritation, breathing issues, headache, nausea or dizziness.

Are Scented Candles Safe?

Beyond chlorine candles, scented candles in general do release concerning compounds when burned. Here's an overview of how scented candle ingredients impact indoor air quality and health.

VOCs

All fragranced candles emit VOCs, including potentially hazardous ones like formaldehyde, acetone, benzene, and other hydrocarbons. Studies show scented candle emissions can exceed indoor air quality standards.

Particulate Matter

Wicks release tiny black soot particles into the air, especially when left untrimmed. Candle wax also produces particulate matter as it burns. Particles can embed deep in the lungs.

Lead and Other Metals

Lead cores and metal-containing wicks can release concerning levels of lead, zinc, tin, copper and other metals when burned. These metals are respiratory toxicants.

Scent Chemicals

Phthalates and synthetic musks are commonly used in fragrance oils to fix scents and make them last longer. Both phthalates and synthetic musks disrupt hormones and may cause asthma.

Smoke

Smoke from any combustion source - cigarettes, fireplaces, candles - contains respiratory irritants. Secondhand scented candle smoke may bother those sensitive to fragrances and chemicals.

Allergies and Asthma

Ingredients in scented candles like limonene and formaldehyde are common sensitizers. The emissions can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and exacerbate other respiratory issues.

Who Should Avoid Scented Candles?

While risks depend on extent of use, some populations are more vulnerable to scented candle emissions:

• Children
• Pregnant women
• Seniors
• Those with respiratory issues - allergies, asthma, COPD
• People with kidney problems
• Individuals with sensitivities - migraines, autoimmune disorders
• Pets - cats especially prone to harm

Babies, young children, and pets should not be exposed at all as they are more susceptible to chemical effects. Those currently experiencing any symptoms should avoid scented candles until the cause is determined.

Making Candles Safer

If eliminating scented candle use entirely seems drastic, there are ways to reduce potential hazards when burning:

Ventilation

Burn candles in well-ventilated areas only. Open windows and use exhaust fans to provide fresh air flow.

Limited Burn Times

Don't burn candles for more than 1-2 hours at a time. Take breaks between lighting.

Trim Wicks

Trim wicks to 14 inch before every use to reduce soot emissions. Long wicks create more smoke.

Avoid Unfamiliar Brands

Stick to reputable national brands. Candles lacking ingredients labels may use unsafe oils, wicks and dyes.

Watch for Symptoms

Discontinue use if you experience any irritation, breathing issues, headache, nausea, or light-headedness.

Use Unscented

Consider safer unscented 100% beeswax or soy candles when possible. Still ventilate but fewer VOC concerns.

Natural Candle Alternatives

If scented candle risks still seem too great, safer options exist for pleasant home fragrances.

Essential Oil Diffusers

Aromatherapy diffusers disperse concentrated essential oils like lemon, lavender, tea tree into the air. Models with timers and auto shut-off are safest.

Potpourri

Simmering potpourri on the stove emits natural fragrance from dried flowers, fruit peels, herbs and spices. Just be sure to watch to prevent boiling over.

Room Sprays

Non-aerosol room mists contain water, essential oils and natural fragrances. Shake well and spray sparingly as desired.

Reed Diffusers

Essential oils are absorbed into porous reeds then gradually fragrance the surrounding air. Refill oil blends once scent dissipates.

Sachets

Small fabric sachets can be filled with scented potpourri ingredients like dried lavender. Tuck into closets, dresser drawers or hang in vehicles.

Simmering Stovetop Pots

Gently heating cinnamon sticks, citrus peels, pine needles, rosemary or other herbs/spices infuses rooms with inviting aromas.

Talk to Your Doctor

Those with health conditions or who experience recurring symptoms around scented candles should discuss concerns with a doctor. Medical guidance is advised before using chlorine candles or restricting home fragrance use.

While scented candles are popular for creating ambiance, take precautions to reduce any risks. When in doubt, choosing fragrance-free may be the wisest option for health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.