The aroma of a lit candle can instantly change the vibe of the room for the better. Yet for pet owners most of the time, this creates a problem. It’s a question of, ‘is this scent safe for my furry friend?’
It is common knowledge that many traditional candles release substances that can prove to be toxic for our four legged companions. This is why differentiating between standard and pet safe candles is crucial when trying to design a home that is not only accommodating to you, but to your pets as well.
This article is designed to provide you with all of the knowledge necessary for selecting pet safe candles and candle products. This will include what currently available candles pose a risk, what kinds of materials are considered safe and what materials are harmful, as well as much more. After all, why worry about the health and safety of your pet when you can give a space all the possible delightful fragrances you want.
Why Traditional Candles Can Be Risky for Pets
Cats and dogs as well as most other pets are equipped with a respiratory system that tends to be more fragile than that of a human. This is why what seems like a pleasant fragrance for you can turn out to be an irritant or a toxic discharge for them. The harmful parts of most traditional candles stem from the ingredients of the candle and the soot that is produced.
The Issues with Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is used for most conventional candles as it is a cheap substance made from the refining of crude oil. It is bad for your health as it releases various VOCs as well as benzene and toluene which are classified as carcinogenic. These compounds may cause health complications such as respiratory issues and allergic reactions to both humans and animals. Pets are far more susceptible to these health issues as their sense of smell is far more sensitive.
Toxic Fragrance Oils
Toxic phthalates used to synthesize fragrance oils are used in many candles as a cheaper alternative. These petroleum derived hormone disruptors are bad for the overall health of your pet. Pet owners should be cautious of fume and oil ingestion as many “natural” essential oils are lethal to creatures such as dogs and cats. These oils include but are not limited to tea treem paw recognized to cause distress and issues with the respiratory system, the pine which brings anxiety, citrus which is highly toxic, and the peppermint oil which is dangerously lethal.
Lead, Wicks, and Soot
Some candles—especially older ones— may still contain wicks that have a lead core. These wicks are dangerous as they produce lead particles that are extremely toxic when inhaled. In addition, even lead-free cotton wicks produce black soot which, when inhaled, settles on surfaces. Pets may lick the soot, which can lead to the ingestion of harmful particles.
What Makes a Candle “Pet Safe”?
An interactive pet-safe candle is one that is made with non toxic natural substances and does not emit dangerous chemicals when lit. Different pets have different needs, and a responsible pet owner will consider what goes into their home. The following is one of the key components to a pet-friendly candle.
Natural, Non-Toxic Wax
Traditional candles have bad wax bases, pet-friendly candles are made from specially designed wax bases which usually contain paraffin. The best alternatives are 100 percent natural waxes.
- Beeswax: A completely natural and long-lasting wax generated by bees. Its added benefit is acting as a natural air purifier by releasing negative ions, which assist in neutralizing pollutants present in the air.
- Coconut wax: Known for its a clean burn and excellent scent throw. Often blended with other natural waxes like soy or beeswax to enhance its performance.
2. Scents that are Safe for Pets
The wax is just as crucial as the scent. Pet safe candles use fragrances that are considered non-toxic to animals. This generally means using a small amount of properly diluted pet safe essential oils or specially designed synthetic fragrances that contain no phthalates or other toxic compounds. Pet owners should always check if the manufacturer makes a clear statement that their fragrances are safe for use by animals. If you’re not sure, the safest choice is an unscented candle made of 100% beeswax or soy.
3. Natural, lead-free wicks
A candle is considered safe if it has wicks made from 100% natural fibers, which can include: cotton and wood. These wicks burn clean without releasing lead or other heavy metals into the air. Some people prefer wood wicks for the pleasant, crackling sound they make, but make sure the wood is untreated and from a safe source.
Dangerous Components to Look Out For
As you shop for candles, checking the labels is incredibly important. If a company is not open about what goes in a candle, it is probably best to avoid it. Below is a list of components best kept away from for a pet-safe home aroma:
- Paraffin Wax: Don’t burn any candle that lists paraffin or “petroleum-based wax” as an ingredient.
- Phthalates: For the most part, these are concealed under the title “fragrance” or “parfum.” Always look for candles that are specifically “phthalate-free.”
- Particular Essential Oils: You should avoid candles that are scented with oils that are known to be harmful to pets like the ones given below:
- Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
- Pine
- Wintergreen
- Citrus (d-limonene)
- Peppermint
- Cinnamon
- Ylang Ylang
- Eucalyptus
- Wicks with Lead: Only use candles from trusted brands that guarantee their wicks are lead-free.
Helpful Hints for the Safe Use of Candles in the Presence of Pets
Even with a pet-safe candle, caution should always be exercised. There are concerns with the flame, prompted and hot wax.
Never Leave a Candle That is Being Burned Unattended: Never, ever walk away from a candle you have lit. A pet’s fascination with candles could lead to a burnt or even scalded animal.
Candles Should Be Kept at a Safe Distance: Store candles on a high, stable platform that is out of reach for the pet. Always consider the cats that are known for agility, or the dogs that tend to have a tail that wags from side to side.
Ensure Good Ventilation: Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room. Scent as well as tiny particles and fine smoke won’t settle in concentration for a pet’s olfactory nose.
Watch for Signs of Distress: Your pet must behave suitably whenever a candle is lit. Then they must avoid sneezing, coughing, watery eyes and lethargy, as well as controlling the breath cycle. If identified, the candle must be put out immediately, and the pet must be moved to a safe breathing zone.
Trim the Wick: Trim the wick to 1/4 of an inch. This improves the burn and hence, reduces soot.
Popular Pet Safe Candle Brands
There are many companies that focus on ignited non-toxic candles for pets as these companies focus on the safety, and the scent is almost always offset.
One Fur All (Pet House Candles)
This brand is first in the market of pet friendly home fragrances. Their candles are 100% natural, soy wax and have no Paraffin, dyes or Phalates. They are designed to get rid of pet odors and pet friendly fragrances.
- Benefits. Odor-eliminating, many scents and pet safety is always on top priority.
Candles by Homesick
Although Homesick is not a pet brand, this company produces high-quality, 100% soy wax candles. They use pure cotton wicks, cigar-grade wax, and absolutely no toxic synthetic fragrances. Their home fragrances are generally soft and would work well for pets and people with sensitive noses.
- Benefits: Phthlate-free and pure burning wax candles with a unique scent
Mrs. Meyers Clean Day
Mrs. Meyers, known for their natural and eco-friendly cleaning products, plant based wax and lead-free wicks. Their soy candles are formulated with essential oils which are okay for pets, like lavender and chamomile.
- Benefits: Easy access, made from sustainable materials, and lead-free wicks.
Bee and Wax
Bee and Wax features 100% pure beeswax candles which are a favorite for people who love beeswax. They are untreated and unscented which is one of the most pet-friendly options for sensitive pets.
Benefits: Natural clean air, a long burning time, and is hypoallergenic.
Conclusion
You can keep your home warm and inviting without putting your pets at risk. You can even enjoy the aesthetics of candles without any worries if you choose carefully. Burn only candles that are natural wax candles (soy or beeswax). Make sure that the wicks are lead-free and the fragrances are phthalate-free and not harmful to pets.
As a general rule of fire safety, keep the burning candles out of your pets’ reach and do not leave them unattended. Looking to follow these basic rules will allow you to keep your home safe and warm, while also beautifully scented for every member of your family, including your furry friends.
