Are Better Home and Gardens Candles Toxic?
The answer to the question Are Better Home and Gardens candles toxic depends on what type of wax they are made from. Candles that are made from beeswax or coconut wax burn much more cleanly than paraffin and do not release harmful particulates into the air. They also smell much better and are naturally long lasting. Wax melts are a great alternative to candles because they emit no smoke and do not contain toxic chemicals like Phthalates.
The biggest concern about candles is the fact that they release particulates into the air when burned. These particulates can cause respiratory problems and lead to many health issues. The best way to avoid this is by limiting the amount of time you burn them and making sure they are properly ventilated. Another way to limit their impact is to use natural air fresheners and sprays to clean the air instead of candles.
A lot of people are concerned about the toxins in the fragrances used in candles. These can include synthetic musks, which are hormone disruptors that have been linked to obesity, infertility, and lower IQ in children. They are also known to be respiratory irritants and may trigger allergies in some people. Look for a 100% natural fragrance that is certified organic to avoid them.
One other thing to be aware of is the fact that some candles use petroleum by-products to color them. While this is not a problem in and of itself, the fact is that it turns your indoor air to something similar to what you would have in a gas engine combustion. You can limit this by purchasing candles that are colored using natural ingredients such as kelp, annatto seeds, orange peel, and paprika.
Is Plant-Based Candle Wax Better Than Paraffin?
Choosing the right wax for your candles can make a difference to you, your environment and your health. Paraffin wax is the popular choice for most store bought candles but is not a good option for your home, especially if you have young children or pets. Paraffin wax is made from petroleum and releases at least 11 known toxins into the air when melted or burned. This is a huge concern when it comes to your health, as it can cause breathing problems and even lead to cancer.
Plant-based waxes such as soy, rapeseed and beeswax are the safer and better option. These are all 100% natural and sustainable, unlike paraffin which is made from crude oil which cannot be renewed. It also takes years for paraffin to biodegrade.
Soy wax is derived from soybeans which are an eco-friendly renewable natural resource. It is not harmful to the environment and does not produce any toxic fumes when melted or burned. Soy wax also burns slower than paraffin which makes it last longer in your candle holder.
Many companies choose to use a blend of plant-based waxes and paraffin in their candles. This is usually done to increase the fragrance throw of the candle without sacrificing the quality of the wax and to save on the cost of ingredients. Be sure to read the label to see if the candle contains only soy wax and not paraffin or other chemicals that could be harmful to you, your family or your pets.
What Wax is the Cleanest?
When you are making your own candles or buying them from a candle maker, it’s important to understand what type of wax and fragrance will give the best results. Some waxes emit harmful chemicals into the air when burned, such as paraffin, and even if labeled “premium grade.”
The cleanest burn is from natural waxes such as soy, rapeseed, coconut, or beeswax. These natural waxes are smokeless, sootless, and emit no toxic fumes into the air, they can actually help purify the air!1
Soy wax is a popular choice because it is produced from a sustainable resource. But because it is derived from soybeans, there are concerns about deforestation, fertilizers, and pesticides. Also, it is harder to work with than other waxes and doesn’t hold scent as well.
Beeswax is another popular natural wax, but it requires more hives and can be difficult to work with. Plus, harvesting it may cause stress to the bees and shorten their lifespan. Many candle makers use a blend of different types of waxes to create a better performing natural candle that is smokeless, sootless and has great scent throw. You’ll want to look for 100% on the labels or contact the candle company if you are concerned about what type of wax is in the blend. The best way to find the cleanest burning candles is to choose a company that uses a combination of soy, beeswax, and rapeseed waxes and has a certified organic fragrance or essential oil.
What is the Most Organic Candle Wax?
If you’re looking for nontoxic and clean burning candles, you’ve come to the right place. The healthiest candles use natural, plant-derived ingredients and avoid a wide range of toxic chemicals that can be released into the air as they burn. The best organic candles also offer aromatherapy benefits and help clean the air, too!
There are many different kinds of candle wax, but some are more eco-friendly than others. Soy wax is a popular option since it’s made from soy beans, a renewable resource. However, soy wax is often refined with hexane, which can be harmful to the environment and your health. Look for soy candles that are hexane-free and sourced from American farmers for the most sustainable and ethical choice.
Another great option is beeswax, which has been around for thousands of years and offers a slow, clean burn. It’s even thought to emit ions into the air that can purify it. However, beeswax is not a renewable resource and can be more expensive than other types of wax.
A final option is rapeseed wax, which is commonly used in Europe. It has a neutral scent and a long, clean burn, but is not very common in the United States. If you do find a candle with rapeseed wax, be sure to check the label for hexane-free and GMO-free sourcing. Also be sure to shop brands that are transparent and list all of their ingredients!
What is the Healthiest Wax for Candle Making?
The answer to this question depends on what you are using to make your candles, and which type of candle making process you prefer. Some types of wax are easier to work with than others, and some will take longer to melt. Some are eco-friendly and others give off toxins while burning, so choosing the right type of candle wax for you is important.
For instance, soy wax is an eco-friendly alternative to paraffin wax. It comes from soybeans, which is a more natural source than crude oil. It also burns cleaner, emitting less soot and fewer toxins. However, soy wax is not without its issues: soy beans are grown by the large soybean industry, and some are concerned about deforestation, the use of pesticides, and fertilizers.
Rapeseed and coconut wax are also eco-friendly choices for candle making. They come in flakes that melt easily, and they don’t release as much soot while burning. These natural waxes are also odorless, and they carry fragrance well.
Beeswax is an ancient type of candle wax, and it’s considered the healthiest because it doesn’t emit any toxins while burning and is believed to purify air. Beeswax is also expensive and a harder working wax, taking a long time to melt, and it has a distinctive honey smell that may not be appealing for scented candles.
Gel wax is another unique type of candle wax that’s a combination of mineral oil and polymer resin. It’s a clear wax that can hold objects such as seashells or beads, and it can be colored with dyes or oils to create decorative candles. It also has a high melting point, so it takes longer than other types of candle wax to melt.
Are Bath and Body Works Candles Safe For Babies?
Whether you’re in the mood for a fresh floral fragrance or a warm vanilla scent, it may seem that Bath and Body Works candles are non-toxic and safe to use around your baby. However, these sweet-smelling candles are made with ingredients and chemicals that can have detrimental effects on both human and animal health. Paraffin wax and synthetics are two of the most harmful materials used in these candles, and they’ve been linked to a number of health issues including diabetes, asthma, infertility, and attention deficit disorder.
Unfortunately, even if a Bath and Body Works candle has soy or vegetable wax on the label, it’s likely still a paraffin wax candle in disguise. Paraffin wax is a petroleum-derived product and burns releasing toxic chemicals like benzene and toluene into the air. These chemicals are known carcinogens and have been linked to numerous health issues, including respiratory problems, headaches, nausea, and congenital disabilities.
Many Bath and Body Works candles also contain phthalates, which are another group of chemicals linked to a variety of health issues, including reproductive and developmental toxicity, hormonal disruption, and cancer. The problem is that consumers can’t know if the Bath and Body Works candles they buy contain phthalates since they are often hidden under the category of “fragrance” on the ingredient list. If you’re looking for safer and more natural candles to use around your baby, we recommend you shop for soy, coconut, or beeswax instead.
Do Scented Candles Have Harmful Toxic Chemicals?
We all love a good scented candle, especially when it’s winter and we are indoors more often. Their ambiance makes a room feel cozier and they can even help kill bad odors. Candles are also a great way to evoke memories. The smell of tobacco or fir can remind you of your grandparents’ farm, or the scent of geranium might bring back happy memories of spending time with your mother. Many people use candles as a spiritual ritual, lighting them in memory of their loved ones who have passed away.
A growing collection of research suggests that scented candles can be harmful to your health, and it’s not just because they produce second-hand smoke. The main culprit is paraffin wax, which produces toxic toxins like benzene and toluene when it burns. These chemicals can also contaminate the air around the flame, creating unhealthy fumes that have been found to cause respiratory problems and even cancer.
In one key peer-reviewed study, researchers measured the amount of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) emitted from six different types of candles both when they were lit and unlit. They also analyzed what the chemicals lingered in the air after four hours of burning. The results? The VOCs from the candles released less than half as much benzene and toluene as the air quality standards set by the World Health Organization.
It’s important to note, however, that if you have a respiratory condition, then you should be particularly careful about the use of candles. According to a researcher at Monell Chemical Senses Centre, smelling just two synthetic fragrance chemicals at the concentration level found in candles can trigger coughing and sneezing in those who are sensitive. If you’re someone who is sensitive, then it’s best to stick with vegetable or beeswax candles that don’t contain metal wicks and choose fragrances that have gone through more testing, like cosmetic-grade synthetic oils.
What Are the Most Beautiful and Non-Toxic Candles?
When it comes to the best candles, there are many factors to consider. You want the candle to burn clean, and emit a scent that makes you feel cozy and comfortable. You also want it to be safe to use around children and pets. And finally, it should be biodegradable and eco-friendly. Unfortunately, the majority of candles on the market are not made well, and contain toxic chemicals that aren’t good for you or the environment.
Luckily, you can choose candles that are both beautiful and nontoxic with a little bit of research. A few things to keep an eye out for are the type of wax, wick, and fragrance. The best candles use natural or essential oils for fragrance, as opposed to synthetic ones. They also typically use non-toxic wicks, such as hemp.
The most important factor to consider is the type of wax a candle uses. Conventional candles often use paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum. This wax doesn’t burn cleanly, and releases high levels of volatile organic compounds into the air when burned. This includes benzene, which is a known carcinogen. It also releases carbon dioxide, which is a greenhouse gas.
The cleanest candles are made with 100% soy, coconut, or vegetable oil based waxes, and are scented with essential oils. Beeswax is another clean option; it burns without drips, doesn’t smoke, and releases negative ions into the air that help to purify it. You can even find clean-burning candles that are sourced ethically and from bees who have been treated with care by their farmers.
What Wax Does Better Homes and Gardens Use?
If you’re looking for an alternative to scented candles, a set of Better Homes and Garden wax melts is a great choice. They contain natural ingredients and typically last longer than paraffin-based scented wax products.
They also emit less smoke and are safer for your home and family, since they do not release soot or harmful chemicals into the air when burned.
They are available in 24 everyday scents, including Line dried Linen, Country Sunflower, Shimmering Cherry Blossom and Warm Crackling Fireplace. You can purchase them online or at Walmart. They cost about $2 each and are a very affordable alternative to scented candles.
1. Potential health hazards of scented candles
When considering the potential health hazards of scented candles, it is important to understand the various vapors and particles they release into the air. While research suggests that using scented candles in a typical manner is generally safe, studies have shown that high levels of exposure can be dangerous.
Certain types of candles made from paraffin wax have been linked to the release of harmful chemicals, including benzene and formaldehyde, which can be potentially carcinogenic.
However, the highest measured levels of these chemicals during a four-hour burning session were still half as high as the recommended indoor air-quality limits set by the World Health Organization.
If you are concerned about the environmental impact of your candles, consider using soy stearin or beeswax candles instead of those made from paraffin wax.
Additionally, burning candles in well-ventilated areas, trimming wicks to about ¼ inch, and keeping the pool of wax free of debris can help minimize exposure to any potential irritants or toxins. Individuals with asthma or those who are sensitive or allergic to certain fragrances should also be cautious when burning scented candles. By taking these precautions, consumers can continue to enjoy the ambiance of candles without putting their health at risk. [1][2]
2. Synthetic fragrances in home products
Syn fragrances in home products have been a concern for many years. Unfortunately, most companies do not have to disclose the specific chemicals that they use in their fragrances.
This can result in consumers being unaware of the toxins they are exposing themselves and their families to.
Scented candles, synthetic oils, plug ins, and air fresheners can release microscopic particles into the air that could potentially affect our health if regularly inhaled. Pregnant women, young children, and people with respiratory problems are particularly vulnerable to the effects of these chemicals.
The main chemicals of concern are fragrance chemicals, which can interfere with our hormones and build up inside our bodies as well as in breast milk. Some of these chemicals are carcinogenic and can reduce sperm count, cause reproductive malformation, and have been linked to liver and breast cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
Additionally, some air fresheners have been found to produce considerable levels of formaldehyde, which is a known human carcinogen linked to cancers of the nose and throat. Fortunately, there are safe and non-toxic alternatives available. These include letting fresh air circulate, using certain plants that can absorb airborne toxins and pump out clean, fresh oxygen, and scenting using ingredients from your fridge or garden such as simmering water with your favorite smelling citrus and/or herbs. By making small changes in the products we use and the way we scent our homes, we can reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals and create a healthier environment for ourselves and our families. [3][4]
3. Low-tox alternatives to synthetic fragrances
According Better Homes and Gardens, scented candles could be damaging to your health due to their synthetic fragrances. However, there are alternative solutions that are low-tox and safer for you and your family.
For example, bathroom air fresheners can be made by simply adding a few drops of essential oil to the inside of a toilet roll, and for a natural air freshener, combine alcohol and water in a spray bottle with your preferred essential oil and use as needed.
For a bedroom air freshener, place a tub of bicarbonate of soda with some lemon oil underneath the bed and add a few fresh drops of oil each week.
Additionally, there are alternatives to candles, such as a vase of coffee beans with vanilla bean powder, or baking something that can fill your home with a gorgeous aroma.
By ditching synthetic fragrance candles and fresheners, consumers can reduce the risk of negative health effects and enjoy more natural scents. It is recommended to try these low-tox alternatives for at least three weeks to truly understand how synthetic fragrances impact the senses. Overall, choosing low-tox alternatives is one way to create a safer, healthier home environment for everyone. [5][6]
4. The dangers of bacteria in essential oil sprays
Essential oils have gained popularity in recent years for their supposed therapeutic benefits. However, not all essential oil products may be safe. Recently, Walmart recalled the Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones due to the presence of Burkholderia pseudomallei bacteria.
This rare and dangerous bacteria causes melioidosis, which is difficult to diagnose and can be fatal. In fact, two deaths have been linked to this outbreak.
The CDC is investigating four cases of melioidosis in Kansas, Minnesota, Texas, and Georgia, including a child fatality. Customers who have purchased any of the affected six scents are advised to immediately cease using them, stop of attempting to dispose of them, and return them to Walmart.
Additionally, any fabrics or surfaces that may have come into contact with the product should be thoroughly washed and disinfected. Customers who show symptoms such as fever and other illnesses within 21 days of using the product should seek immediate medical attention and inform their doctor about the product exposure. It is important for consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with essential oil products and carefully follow any safety instructions provided. [7][8]
5. CDC confirms link between dangerous bacteria and Better Homes and Gardens spray
In news, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed a link between a recalled Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray and two deaths.
The outbreak was linked to a rare and dangerous bacteria, Burkholderia pseudomallei, which causes a condition known as melioidosis.
The bacteria can be difficult to diagnose, and the infection can be fatal. It is reported that the bacteria found in the recalled aromatherapy room spray genetically matches the bacterial strains found in patients in Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, and Texas.
As a precaution, Walmart has issued a recall for approximately 3,900 bottles of the spray in six different scents.
The product was sold at around 55 Walmart stores across the United States and online from February 2021 through October 2021. Consumers are urged to stop using this product immediately, not to open the bottle, and to return the product to a Walmart store in a double-bagged clear zip-top resealable bag and placed in a small cardboard box.
Walmart is offering a full refund and an additional $20 gift card to affected customers. It is essential to take this recall seriously, as melioidosis can be a severe and life-threatening disease. If you have used the product within the past 21 days and are experiencing any symptoms of melioidosis, seek immediate medical attention and notify your doctor about possible product exposure. [9][10]
6. Melioidosis symptoms and risks
Melioidosis is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. This bacteria is known to commonly occur in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
The disease can display a wide range of symptoms, including fever, cough, respiratory distress, muscle aches, joint pain, and abscesses. The severity of the disease depends upon the route of infection, the immune status of the infected person, and the presence of other underlying medical conditions.
In some cases, melioidosis can lead to sepsis, pneumonia, and organ failure. Melioidosis can be fatal if left untreated, and the mortality rate can be up to 50% in severe cases.
The risk of contracting melioidosis increases for people with weakened immune systems, those who have a history of diabetes or chronic lung disease, and people who have had exposure to contaminated soil or water.
Given the high risk involved, it is important to stop using the recalled product immediately and take the necessary steps, as recommended by the CDC, to dispose of it safely. If anyone has used the product and experiences symptoms similar to those of melioidosis, they should seek medical assistance right away. [11][12]
7. Walmart recalls Better Homes and Gardens aromatherapy room spray
In 2021, Walmart announced a recall of their Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones due to the presence of a rare and dangerous bacteria. The bacteria, Burkholderia pseudomallei, can cause melioidosis, a condition that can be difficult to diagnose and potentially fatal.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have linked this bacteria to four patients in Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, and Texas, leading to two deaths.
The CDC confirmed that the bacterial strains in the product match those identified in the patients, establishing the spray or one of its ingredients as the cause of the infections.
The aromatherapy room spray was sold in about 55 Walmart stores nationwide and online from February 2021 through October 2021 for around $4.
Better Homes and Gardens Aromatherapy is printed on the label on the front of the 5-ounce glass bottle and was available in six scents. Consumers are urged to stop using the product immediately, not to dispose of the product in the trash or pour the contents down a drain, and to return the bagged and boxed product to a Walmart store. Walmart is providing a full refund and an additional $20 gift card for all customers who purchased the product. The product was manufactured in India by Flora Classique Inc. and sold under the Better Homes and Gardens brand. [13][14]
8. Disposing of recalled products
When a product is recalled, it is important to dispose of it properly to avoid any harm or danger. In the case of the Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones, Walmart is urging customers who purchased the product since its launch in February 2021 to return it to a Walmart store.
To dispose of the recalled room spray, customers should double-bag it in a clear zip-top resealable bag and place it in a small cardboard box. It should not be thrown away in the trash or poured down the drain.
Walmart is offering a full refund and an additional $20 gift card for all customers who purchased the spray, both online and in stores.
The product was manufactured in India and sold at about 55 Walmart stores nationwide and online for about $4 per bottle. The spray was available in six different scents, including Lavender and Chamomile, Lemon and Mandarin, Lavender, Peppermint, Lime and Eucalyptus, and Sandalwood and Vanilla. It is important to take product recalls seriously and dispose of the recalled products properly to ensure the safety of everyone. If an individual has used the product within the last 21 days and experienced any symptoms of melioidosis, the CDC urges them to seek immediate medical care and notify their doctor about product exposure. [15][16]
9. Consumer guidance for dealing with recalled products
When product is recalled, it is important for consumers to take immediate action to ensure their safety. In the case of the Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones, which has been recalled due to the presence of a rare and dangerous bacteria, consumers should stop using the product immediately. They should not open the bottle or attempt to dispose of it on their own. Instead, they should put the product in a clean, clear, zip-top resealable bag and place it in a cardboard box.
Consumers who have purchased this product can return it to Walmart, where it was sold, for a full refund. They can also contact Walmart’s customer service hotline for assistance. It is important to note that the bacteria found in the recalled room spray can cause melioidosis, a condition that is difficult to diagnose and can be fatal.
In addition to following the guidance provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, consumers can take steps to prevent future recalls. They should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using products and storing them safely. If a product is recalled, they should immediately stop using it and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for returning or disposing of it. By staying informed and taking action when necessary, consumers can stay safe and protect their families from dangerous products. [17][18]
10. Made in India: Information on Better Homes and Gardens aromatherapy room spray.
The Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones, sold at Walmart stores, has been recalled due to the presence of a rare and dangerous bacteria that causes melioidosis.
This bacteria has been linked to two deaths and two illnesses in Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, and Texas. The product was manufactured in India by Flora Classique Inc. and sold at Walmart stores and online from February to October 2021.
The spray is available in six different scents, including lavender and chamomile, lemon and mandarin, and sandalwood and vanilla. Walmart has stopped sales of the product and is urging customers who purchased the spray to return it to any Walmart store for a full refund, as well as an additional $20 gift card.
Customers should not dispose of the product in the trash or pour the contents down a drain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that customers who have used the product within the last 21 days and experienced symptoms of melioidosis seek immediate medical care and notify their doctor about product exposure. Walmart is also contacting customers who purchased the product online, as well as those who purchased it in stores but did not provide an email or physical address. [19][20]