Candles are a popular way to add ambiance and fragrance to a space, but many commercial aromatherapy candles are made with toxic chemicals that can harm both people and the environment. If you enjoy making your candles at home, you can easily create non-toxic candles using natural ingredients and essential oils.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make non-toxic candles at home:
You will need candle wax, wicks, essential oils, and any additional ingredients you want to add to your candles (such as dried herbs or botanical elements). You can use a few different types of candle wax, including soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax. Soy wax is a popular choice for non-toxic candles because it is renewable and biodegradable, and it is also easy to work with and has a long burn time. Beeswax is another good option for non-toxic candles, as it is naturally fragrant and has a longer burn time than soy wax. Coconut wax is a newer option that is gaining popularity because it is made from coconut oil and has a creamy, smooth texture.
Essential oils are a great way to scent your candles naturally, and many options exist. Some popular essential oils for candles include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus scents like lemon or orange. You can use a single essential oil or create your custom blend by mixing several oils. Aim for about 10-15 drops of essential oil per ounce of wax.
Candle wicks are an important element of any candle, as they provide the flame that melts the wax and releases the fragrance. For non-toxic candles, it is important to use natural cotton wicks made from cotton or hemp. Avoid using candle wicks that contain metal or synthetic materials, as these can release harmful chemicals when burned. To prepare your wick per candle, cut them to the desired length (about 1 inch longer than the height of your candle glass jar) and secure them to the bottom of your jars from candles using a wick sticker or a small amount of melted wax.
There are a few different ways you can melt wax for candle making, including using a double boiler or a microwave. If you use a double boiler, fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a simmer. Place your wax in a heat-resistant candle container (such as a glass measuring cup) and set it in the saucepan to melt. If you use a microwave, place your wax in a microwave-safe container and heat it in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds until it is fully melted.
Once your wax is fully melted, add your essential oils and any other ingredients you want to include in your candles. Stir well to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
Once your wax is fully melted and scented, it's time to pour it into your candle jar. Make sure your wick is centered in the jar, and pour the wax slowly and steadily, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
Once you have poured your wax into your candle jar, allow it to cool and set completely before lighting it. This will typically take a few hours or overnight, depending on the size of your kind of candles.
Once your candle is fully set and cooled, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch long. This will help prevent the flame.
There are many benefits to using non-toxic candles, which are made with natural ingredients and essential oils instead of toxic chemicals. Here are some of the benefits of non-toxic larger candles:
Non-toxic candles do not release harmful chemicals into the air when burned, which can improve the air quality in your home. Many commercial candles are made with synthetic fragrances and other toxic chemicals that can release harmful particles into the air when they are burned. By using non-toxic, lead-free candles, you can enjoy the benefits of candlelight without compromising the air quality in your home.
People with allergies or sensitivities to certain chemicals can have adverse reactions to traditional candles, which can be made with synthetic fragrances and other harmful chemicals. Non-toxic candles, on the other hand, are made with natural ingredients and essential oils, which are generally safer for people with allergies or sensitivities.
Pets, especially cats and birds, can be sensitive to the chemicals released by traditional candles. Using non-toxic candles can help protect your furry friends from exposure to harmful chemicals.
Many non-toxic candles, particularly those made with soy wax or beeswax, have a longer burn time than traditional candles. This means you can enjoy the benefits of your non-toxic all natural candle for longer without having to replace it constantly.
Many non-toxic candles contain sustainable, renewable ingredients like soy wax or beeswax. This means they have a smaller environmental footprint than traditional candles, often made with non-renewable resources like paraffin wax.
Non-toxic candles are often made with biodegradable ingredients like soy wax, which means they are less harmful to the environment when disposed of. On the other hand, traditional candles can take hundreds of years to break down, which can contribute to pollution and waste.
Non-toxic candles can be customized with a wide range of natural ingredients and essential oils to create your unique scents and blends. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of candlelight without being limited to the pre-made scents available in stores.
Toxic-free candles are often made with natural fragrances from essential oils, which can have aromatherapeutic benefits. Many essential oils have calming or uplifting properties that can help you relax or feel energized, depending on your chosen scent.
Non-toxic candles are often handmade, which means they are made with care and attention to detail. By supporting small businesses that make non-toxic candles, you can help promote sustainable, eco-friendly practices and support the local economy.