6 Clean-Burning Fall Candles (2024)

Our top picks for fall candles made with natural, clean-burning wax

Posted on September 23, 2021 Written by: 100% PURE ®

6 Clean-Burning Fall Candles (1)

With the weather cooling down and holidays around the corner, it’s safe to say that the fall mood is upon us. That means breaking out the sweaters, spooky movies, and (of course), bringing on all of the pumpkin and apple drinks.

But does anything scream “fall vibes” more than a fall candle? Scents like nutmeg, cedar, and pumpkin pie do wonders for the atmosphere in our homes. However, not all fall candles are created equal. Unfortunately, there are plenty of fall candles that are made with harmful toxins that can pollute the air and our bodies.

Before you treat your senses to your next fall candle, check out our guide below. We’re going to let you know what makes a clean-burning fall candle and what really doesn’t.


Ingredients to Avoid in Fall Candles

Paraffins
Whether it was a $3 candle from the local bargain bin or a votive from a high-end boutique, chances are you’ve encountered paraffin candles. Paraffin is one of the most common candle waxes thanks to its steady burn and low cost. But unfortunately, paraffin wax has a bit of a dirty background.

Paraffin waxes are petroleum by-products. Paraffin is derived from the gunk at the bottom of crude oil barrels. It undergoes intensive processing to remove its naturally occurring toxins, like benzene and toluene.

But even after it’s refined, it’s suspected that these trace toxins can still be released when paraffin candles are burned. Some of these chemicals are potentially harmful to reproductive, developmental, and respiratory health.

As the final product of petroleum, paraffin is not biodegradable and ultimately not environmentally friendly. Its production releases pollutants that are harmful to humans and the environment.


Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals meant to make plastic more durable, but you’ll also find them in synthetic fragrances. Phthalates are potentially dangerous because of their links to reproductive disruption and birth defects.

Some of the most common phthalates take the names of dibutyl phthalate (DBP), di-n-octyl phthalate (DNOP), and diisononyl phthalate (DiNP).


Lead Wicks
This is one you shouldn’t have to worry about anymore, but it’s still helpful to know about the existence of lead wicks. Lead-core wicks are known to release 5 times the amount of lead into the air. They even exceed EPA pollution standards for outdoor air.

Luckily, lead-core wicks were banned from being manufactured or imported into the United States in 2003. But if you’re shopping abroad, keep in mind that they can still be found in some countries, such as China and Taiwan.


6 Clean-Burning Fall Candles (2)

Artificial Fragrance: Why It Stinks

Now, there’s one candle ingredient to avoid that really deserves its own category: artificial fragrance. Natural fragrances typically consist of plant-based extracts and essential oils. However, a single artificial fragrance can contain as many as 3,000-5,000 different chemicals. These include formaldehyde, esters, alcohol, and petroleum distillates. And when these artificial fall candles are lit, all of these chemicals are subsequently released into the air.

We all love a fall candle with a scent that fills the room. But it’s important to understand how air pollution can occur in a small space. When fall candles with artificial fragrance are burned, air pollutants can accumulate within a space over time. The ensuing onset of pollutants has been known to result in headaches, dizziness, allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, respiratory tract infections, and cancer.


What Makes a Clean-Burning Candle?

After reading our candle ingredient exposé, you may be wondering: are there clean alternatives to paraffin? The answer is a resounding yes! When we talk about clean-burning fall candles, we’re talking about candles made with either soy or beeswax.

Beeswax is the oldest known material used for candles, and remains one of the cleanest options. Beeswax is natural, free of toxins, and makes fall candles that provide slow burn. It’s considered the cleanest burning candle wax, as it acts as a natural air purifier.

Meanwhile, soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil – making it the top vegan candle wax option. While this is a plus, soy has a few downsides. Perhaps the most glaring issue is that soy wax doesn’t work on its own. It usually requires the addition of some paraffin. But while soy certainly has its issues, it’s still a better option than pure paraffin.


6 Clean-Burning Candles for Fall

We realize how hard it can be to live clean; we already had to assess our food, makeup, and skin care. But now we have to scrutinize every candle we buy, too?!

To cut through the noise, we put together a list of our favorite clean-burning fall candles. Our top picks are cruelty-free, phthalate-free, and dye-free. They’re also made of either soy or beeswax.


#1: Homesick Pumpkin Picking
For a more classic fall candle, this soy candle from Homesick is the perfect pumpkin scent. With base notes of vanilla, tonka bean, and sugar, mid notes of ginger, cinnamon, and clove, and top notes of pumpkin and nutmeg, “Pumpkin Picking” is sure to get you into the fall mood.


#2: Public Goods Cedar & Suede
When the weather gets cool, there’s just something appealing about a fall candle with a more masculine scent. That’s why we love the candle “Cedar and Suede” from Public Goods. It features notes of amber, cedarwood, oakmoss, and leather.


#3: Heretic Slightly Bitter
If you’re over the pumpkin and spice varieties, Heretic’s soy candle in the scent “Slightly Bitter” exudes a blend that diverts from the traditional fall candle scents. You’ll notice bright botanicals like grapefruit, cassis berries, tomato leaf, and petitgrain while staying true to fall.


#4: Brooklyn Candle Studio: Catskills Escapist Candle
Want to bring in the outdoors while staying cozy? Brooklyn Candle Studio’s “Catskills Escapist” candle includes notes of juniper, cedar, and cypress to summon the atmosphere of hikes in the woods. You’ll feel like you’re in the forest during an autumn rainstorm, stepping on crunchy pine needles.


#5: Illume Good Natured Soy Ceramic Candle in Olive Leaf & Lemon
Need a sunny, refreshing pick-me-up? Check out Illume’s Good Natured Soy Ceramic Candle in Olive Leaf and Lemon. Transport yourself to the Mediterranean for an afternoon with this bright citrus fragrance of lemon, lime, olive, and coriander. This fall candle is made with coconut wax and food-grade fragrances.


#6: Otherland Rattan
There’s something about gourmand scents that wrap us in as much warmth as our favorite cardigans. That’s why we love the Rattan candle from Otherland. With notes of sandalwood, golden amber, and warm musk, this coconut and soy wax blend candle envelops us in sweetness.

6 Clean-Burning Fall Candles (2024)

FAQs

What are the cleanest burning candles? ›

Beeswax. Beeswax candles are the healthiest choice in candles. Made from the caps of bee honeycombs, beeswax candles burn clean, are very long-burning, and give off a pleasant natural fragrance as they burn. Beeswax candles are dripless when burned properly, and release negative ions which help clean the air in a room.

What are the cleanest burning candle wicks? ›

To play it safe, look for 100 percent cotton, hemp, or wood wicks.

What kind of candles don't give off soot? ›

Coconut Wax
  • One of the cleanest burning candle waxes & often considered by candlemakers as the best natural wax option.
  • Burns slower than other waxes for a longer lasting candle.
  • Most eco-friendly wax to produce.
  • Strong scent throw (holds up to 12% scent in its wax)
  • Zero soot particles released when burned.
Jan 1, 2023

Do Bath and Body Works candles burn clean? ›

As more than a decade of rigorous testing has shown, our candles are safe! They undergo extensive quality and safety testing under rigorous burn and use conditions and meet or exceed all applicable industry and government standards for safety and performance.

Is there a candle that kills germs in the air? ›

EC3 Air Purification Candles are designed to purify the air in 3 hours in a 12 x 12-foot room.

What candles to avoid? ›

Avoid aromatherapy candles made of paraffin or gel, both petroleum byproducts. In all things, avoiding the fossil fuel industry when you can makes sense for living a green life. Just like if you don't have to drive a car to get to your destination, don't; if you don't have to burn a petroleum-based candle, don't.

How can you tell if a candle is clean burning? ›

Three Things That Make a Candle Burn Clean
  1. Wax. The cleanest waxes are soy, beeswax, and coconut. Don't be fooled by some brands as they like to mix these with paraffin wax. ...
  2. Wick. Look for candles with wicks made from 100% cotton, hemp, or wood for the cleanest possible burn. ...
  3. Fragrance.

Do Yankee Candles burn clean? ›

Yankee Candle Company never uses lead wicks, and most wicks are made from 100 percent cotton for a clean and even burning experience.

When should you not use a candle anymore? ›

As with most things, knowing when to stop burning your candle is important. This keeps you, and your furniture, safe. When there is approximately 1/2” of wax left in the bottom of your candle it's time to stop burning. It's okay for there to be some wax left over, candles are created with this little buffer of wax.

What wax is used in Yankee Candles? ›

Yankee candles are made from paraffin wax, as well as essential oils for fragrance and cotton for the wicks.

Are all soy candles soot free? ›

Soy wax creates no soot when burned and doesn't create carcinogens. If your soy candle is ever producing black smoke, it is likely because your wick needs to be trimmed, but not as a result of the wax itself.

What is the most popular fall scent? ›

Top 10 Best Fall Scents for Home
  • Pumpkin Spice. This home fragrance is perfect for both fall-scented candles and oil for your fragrance diffuser. ...
  • Spicy Clementine. Clementines are these wonderful citrus fruits that resemble an orange fruit. ...
  • Pink Sugar. ...
  • Clove. ...
  • Cinnamon Hot Chocolate. ...
  • Apple Cinnamon. ...
  • Maple Leaves. ...
  • Pecan Pie.
Oct 20, 2021

Who has the best smelling fall candles? ›

The 18 best fall candles that smell amazingly warm and cozy
  • Trudon Spella Classic Candle. ...
  • Anecdote Candles Basic Glass Jar Candle. ...
  • Snif x Half Baked Harvest Pumpkin Smash Candle. ...
  • Malin + Goetz Dark Rum Candle. ...
  • Urban Outfitters Mushroom Glass Candle. ...
  • Threshold Pumpkin Spice Woodwick Candle.
Nov 28, 2022

Who makes the best fall candles? ›

28 Best Fall-Scented Candles That Smell Like Sweater Weather
  • Best Overall Fall-Scented Candle. Off the Grid Snif. ...
  • Best Diptyque Scented Candle. ...
  • Best Pumpkin Spice Scented Candle. ...
  • Black-Owned Business. ...
  • Best Jo Malone Scented Candle. ...
  • Best Soy Candle. ...
  • Autumn Hayride Homesick. ...
  • No Wahala Candle FORVR Mood.
Sep 6, 2022

Why cant I smell my Bath and Body Works candle? ›

You may have become 'nose blind' to the scent

If so, you've probably gotten so used to the scent you can't smell it anymore. If you've been burning the same candle scent, try burning a different aroma, or leaving the room for 15 to 20 minutes before returning.

Why are bath and body work candles so good? ›

Bath & Body Works has always been a top contender when it comes to quality candles and addictive scents. Yes. There's a reason that Bath & Body Works has been the mainstream go-to for all things fragrance. The brand delivers quality fragrances that disperses widely without being overpowering.

Are Bath and Body Works candles paraffin free? ›

Bath & Body Works candles are a great example. On their website, the company states that “The main ingredients for all formulas are vegetable wax, paraffin wax, and soy. Our Signature Collection Candles are considered vegetable wax candles.

Is there a candle that kills mold? ›

The EC3 Air Purification Candle is a simple way to control mold spore levels in the indoor air. The heat from the burning wick aerosolizes the natural botanical embedded in the soy wax.

What scents clean the air? ›

Citrus- Lemon, grapefruit, and orange essential oils are all antimicrobial. Their high levels of limonene help destroy airborne viruses and clean the air in your home. They are also beneficial to the lymphatic system, and leave a fresh cheerful scent that really brings the outdoors in.

Do candles deplete the oxygen in the room? ›

Do candles reduce oxygen levels? When you burn a candle you are reacting oxygen from the air with carbon and hydrogen in the candle. This will reduce the amount of oxygen in the glass, but it will also increase the amount of carbon-dioxide in the glass.

What are the safest candles to burn indoors? ›

Soy wax, coconut wax and beeswax candles are all great options. Be sure to make sure labels say the candles are 100% soy or beeswax (companies like to create blends with paraffin wax because it's cheaper) and if possible, I like to buy sustainably sourced and cruelty-free candles!

Are candles worse than cigarettes? ›

Andrew Sledd, a pediatrician with a specialty in Environmental Toxicology, told KFVS12 that one hour of scented candle burning can be the equivalent of smoking a single cigarette. Soot from candles can also pose a real threat to our respiratory systems, he said.

Do candles hurt your lungs? ›

Nikaeta Sadekar, a respiratory toxicologist with the nonprofit Research Institute for Fragrance Materials, agreed. Exposure to chemicals emitted by scented candles “is so low that they pose no significant risk to human health,” she said.

Do soy candles burn clean? ›

Soy Delivers a Cleaner Burn!

Unlike paraffin wax, which gives off black soot when burned, soy wax burns cleaner. Since paraffin wax is petroleum-based, burning it produces a black soot that can potentially stain curtains, walls, and carpets inside the home.

Are candles unhealthy to burn in the house? ›

Lead wicks aside, burning candles can expose you to potentially hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. Though these chemicals can be dangerous, studies conclude that exposure to these chemicals when burning candles is too low to present a direct health hazard.

What are Bath and Body Works candles made of? ›

It's Simple. From patented soy-blend wax & perfect wicks to essential oils & artisan-designed plugs — our smallest details make the biggest difference.

Should I keep lid on candle? ›

Besides being decorative, lids help keep your candles clean by keeping dust and debris out. They also preserve the lifespan of scented candles by preventing the fragrance from escaping, which happens whenever the wax is exposed to open air (you might recognize this phenomenon as "cold throw").

Why is the first burn of a candle so important? ›

The candle's first burn is an important step to avoid tunneling. Your goal on a first burn is to fully melt the top layer of wax, evenly. If you do not, a “tunnel” will form in the center of the candle, creating a memory ring. Tunneling happens when the first-burn is not a long enough period of time.

Is it safe to burn candles in glass jars? ›

The National Candle Association (www.candles.org) states that the reason to not burn the wax (in a container or just a candle itself) all the way down is SAFETY. A glass jar or container can become too hot, causing it to break or shatter and possibly causing a fire as well as other damage.

Can you burn candles in mason jars? ›

Drop some candles in some Mason jars, as Christina from Christina's Adventures did, and you've got safe summer candles for indoors and out. The jars are heat resistant so they're safe with the flame — and the flame won't get extinguished by the wind.

What is the cleanest wax for candle making? ›

Beeswax is the oldest known material used for candles, and remains one of the cleanest options. Beeswax is natural, free of toxins, and makes fall candles that provide slow burn. It's considered the cleanest burning candle wax, as it acts as a natural air purifier.

What wax is used in luxury candles? ›

Luxury candles tend to use higher-end alternatives to paraffin, such as coconut wax, beeswax, and soy wax. For example, our candles are made with natural soy wax, which burns less quickly than paraffin and allows you to savor the ambience and aroma up to 50% longer.

What wax is best for smell? ›

Without the soot and toxins released into the air, soy wax also has a stronger scent profile. While a paraffin wax candle does hold scent better, this also depends on the oil quality used to create the fragrance. A higher-quality essential oil needs only a fraction in soy wax, compared to its paraffin counterpart.

Which is better beeswax or soy candles? ›

There you have it, when comparing wax, soy wax is arguably better than beeswax due to cost, aesthetics, oil retention, vegan friendly and eco friendly properties. However on sweetness, and burn temperature, beeswax wins out. Let us know which natural wax you decide to go with when making your candle.

Is coconut wax better than soy wax? ›

Between the two, coconut is the softer wax. This makes it easier to work with allowing for a stronger overall blend of fragrance. This softness also gives coconut wax a cleaner burn, coming from the fewer ingredients list. On the other hand, soy wax is just a little stiffer which gives it many similar properties.

Do beeswax candles give off soot? ›

100% pure beeswax candles burn clean and have their own natural honey/floral scent even when not burning. Unlike paraffin candles, they do not contain any additives, synthetic chemicals or leave behind black soot from smoke when they are burned.

What is the perfect autumn smell? ›

With classic scents including pumpkin, apple, cinnamon and nutmeg, these autumn scents will bring the extra dose of ambiance your home needs. If your fall smells a little less sweet and a bit sharper, we have candles that don't smell anything like a treat you'd want to eat.

How can I make my house smell like autumn? ›

  1. Hang a cinnamon broom or buy cinnamon pinecones. ...
  2. Make a simmer pot. ...
  3. Burn an autumn candle. ...
  4. Diffuse some fall-friendly essential oils. ...
  5. Put a few drops of essential oils on your furnace filter. ...
  6. Bake something. ...
  7. Use fall-scented cleaning products. ...
  8. Plug in a candle warmer and use fall-scented melts.
Oct 3, 2019

What is a good fall smell? ›

Bergamot might have taken the top spot, but it wasn't the only scent that brings an extra dose of ambiance. In fact, other fragrances that promote warmth and happiness include rich cinnamon, amber, spiced pumpkin, and root ginger.

What is Oprah's favorite candle? ›

Chosen as one of her Favorite Things of 2022, Oprah said, “Pine and sandalwood combine with balsam and apple blossom for a scent that will fill the house with cheer.

What is the most popular candle scent in the world? ›

  • Vanilla. Known as the world's favorite flavor, vanilla was first cultivated and harvested around 900 years ago by the ancient Totonac tribe in Mexico. ...
  • Rose. ...
  • Lavender. ...
  • Coffee. ...
  • Lemon. ...
  • Amber. ...
  • Sage. ...
  • Cinnamon.
Dec 8, 2022

What candles did Jackie Kennedy use? ›

President Charles de Gaulle gave the Rigaud Cypres candle to First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. She loved the candle so much she had the line brought over to the states and the rooms of the White House were filled with Rigaud candles while the Kennedy's were in office.

What are the smells of fall season? ›

Some of the most popular food and perfume scents are often: pumpkin spice, cinnamon, apple pie, pecan pie and apple cider, just to name a few. Choosing an autumn fragrance involves a selection that is adapted to slightly warmer clothes than those worn in summer.

What is the best Yankee Candle for autumn? ›

Best Yankee Candle Scents in 2022: Golden Autumn

If you like scents that are not too strong, Golden Autumn is definitely the best Yankee Candle scent for you. It's beautiful, it's soft and dreamy, and honestly reminiscent of the crisp autumn season.

Do non toxic candles exist? ›

If you're looking for a safe, non-toxic candle that won't harm your health or the environment, plant-based candles are a better bet. Plant-based candles are made with either soy wax or coconut wax. These types of waxes come from plants and are 100% plant-based, whereas paraffin is petroleum-based.

What ingredients should you avoid in candles? ›

These are the same chemicals found in diesel fuel emissions and are known to cause allergies, asthma attacks, and skin problems.
...
Paraffin wax
  • alkenes.
  • acetone.
  • benzene.
  • toluene.

Are Yankee Candles soy or paraffin? ›

Yankee candles are made from paraffin wax, as well as essential oils for fragrance and cotton for the wicks.

How do you find clean burning candles? ›

When shopping for a candle look for 100% pure wax like soy, coconut, palm, and beeswax. Palm wax is supposed to be the cleanest burning of all of them but any natural base is good unless you are sensitive to it or allergic.

What wax makes the best smelling candles? ›

Currently, paraffin waxes are thought to be the best for producing a powerful aroma, which is why many high-end businesses continue to utilize paraffin wax in their candles.

What kind of wax does Bath and Body Works use? ›

Bath & Body Works candles are a great example. On their website, the company states that “The main ingredients for all formulas are vegetable wax, paraffin wax, and soy. Our Signature Collection Candles are considered vegetable wax candles.

What is the most eco friendly candle wax? ›

Soy wax is known for being a healthier and more eco-friendly alternative to common paraffin wax candles that you're likely to find on the drug store shelf. Paraffin wax is made from petroleum which isn't sustainable nor healthy when it is breathed in.

Are hotel lobby candles toxic? ›

All Hotel Lobby Candle fragrances are phthalate-free and adhere to RIFM (Research Institute for Fragrance Materials) and IFRA (International Fragrance Association) standards for safety and purity. Bonus: Most clean burning candle scents are stronger than others.

Are there any candles that are safe to burn? ›

Wax. Paraffin- and petroleum-derived waxes release chemicals into the air when burned, even if they are "premium grade." It's better to choose clean-burning soy wax or beeswax, but be sure to look for 100% on the labels, and, when possible, select wax that is naturally derived or sustainably sourced.

Are Mrs Meyers candles safe? ›

Meyer's candles are made with a vegetable soy wax base as well as other thoughtfully chosen ingredients. They are all vegan, cruelty-free and tested by people, not on animals.

Why you shouldn't burn candles? ›

Lead wicks aside, burning candles can expose you to potentially hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. Though these chemicals can be dangerous, studies conclude that exposure to these chemicals when burning candles is too low to present a direct health hazard.

How do you make a candle free toxin? ›

To avoid some of the toxins found commonly in candles, make the switch to beeswax or vegetable-based wax candles. These kinds of candles are entirely non-toxic and all-natural, as long as they are 100 percent beeswax or vegetable and not a blend. You'll also want to find a candle with a cotton wick.

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