Candles don’t have to negatively the quality of indoor air
Q: I love burning scented candles to create a cozy and pleasant atmosphere in my home, but I’ve heard concerns about how it might affect indoor air quality. Are there any health risks I should be aware of ?
A: Burning scented candles can indeed add a warm and inviting ambiance to your home, but it’s essential to be aware of their potential effect on indoor air quality. Candles release various compounds into the air, and while the risks are generally low, it’s essential to take some precautions to ensure a healthy indoor environment.
Candles emit several substances when burned, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds and potentially harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. The specific composition of those emissions can vary depending on the candle’s ingredients, fragrance and wick material. Exposure to those emissions, especially in poorly ventilated spaces or with prolonged candle burning, can lead to health concerns. Common symptoms may include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headaches or exacerbation of respiratory conditions in some individuals.
To enjoy candles while minimizing risks to indoor air quality and your health, consider these tips: › Choose highquality candles.
Opt for candles made from natural ingredients like soy or beeswax, as they tend to emit fewer harmful chemicals. Look for candles labeled as “unscented” or “fragrance-free.”
› Ventilation.
Ensure good ventilation in the room where you burn candles. Opening windows or using an exhaust fan can help disperse any indoor air pollutants.
› Limit burn time.
Avoid burning candles for extended periods. It’s a good practice to burn them for no more than one to two hours at a time.
› Keep a safe distance.
Place candles away from drafts and flammable materials and out of the reach of children and pets. Use proper candle holders to prevent accidents.
› Trim the wick.
Keeping the wick trimmed to around 1/4 inch can help reduce the release of soot and other pollutants.
› Opt for fragrancefree.
If you are concerned about air quality, consider burning fragrance-free candles or using alternative methods like essential oil diffusers for aromatherapy.
If you’re extremely sensitive to indoor air quality or have preexisting respiratory conditions, you might want to consider alternatives to scented candles, such as essential oil diffusers, potpourri or natural air purifiers.
While burning scented candles can be a delightful way to enhance your home’s atmosphere, it’s essential to be mindful of indoor air quality. By following the tips mentioned above, you can continue to enjoy your candles while minimizing potential health risks. Also, for those with asthma, using candles, essential oil diffusers and plug-ins should be avoided.
If you experience any severe or persistent symptoms related to indoor air quality, consult a health care professional for guidance.
Dr. Todd Levin is an allergy and asthma specialist with Chattanooga Allergy Clinic and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.