For a truly sustainable scent, shop these eco-friendly candles.
From aromatic notes of lavender and eucalyptus to classic fall scents of pumpkin spice and vanilla, candles certainly smell good. But just how sustainable is your scented candle addiction?
Are candles sustainable?
The candle industry is booming. According to the National Candle Association, candle products rake in about $3.14 billion each year.
The majority of candles are made from paraffin wax—also known as mineral wax, a petroleum-derived wax, as well as synthetic fragrances. Although they may be cozy and pleasing to the nose, these flickering candles can release microscopic pollutants and toxins like toluene, formaldehyde, and benzene into the air as they burn.
Studies into whether or not candles are actually harmful to human health have been contentious, but the general consensus is that they are generally safe for consumer use, according to the Office for Science and Safety.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, though, studies show that natural candle options made from the likes of soy, coconut, and vegetable wax do have smaller footprints, releasing less soot and toxic chemicals into the air than their paraffin-based counterparts.
The best non-toxic candles to shop
For a truly sustainable scent, light up these eco-friendly candles. (They’re vegan, too!)
1. Le Labo
The clean scent wizards at Le Labo bring their addictive fragrances to showstopping candles, too, as part of their obsessions with craftsmanship. A stunning concrete vessel is handcrafted in Maine with recycled stone dust, for unique vessels with varying shades, and tactile qualities. Le Labo’s candles come with the fragrance oils on extra, for a scent that refreshes and lingers. Its custom blend of waxes, and wicks are constructed with natural fibers, and the candles are packaged in upcycled materials. It’s a must for any candle aficionado.
2. Nette Candle
Vegan and cruelty-free, this luxury candle maker offers clean and sustainable scents for all. Free of paraffins, parabens, sulfates, and dye, the candles are made from natural coconut soy wax and contained in handmade vessels. Plus, one tree is planted for every purchase.
For an intoxicating floral scent, shop The Another Life, which features vanilla, cocoa, cedar wood, and patchouli. Or for a candle that smells like summer, the Georgica, which conjures scents of scorched dunes, rose vines, clean linens, an old leather chairs (vegan, of course).
3. P.F. Candle Co.
Vegan, cruelty-free, and phthalate-free scented soy candles. Need we say more? The Los Angeles-based brand, which makes its candles with 100 percent soy wax, partnered with Climate Neutral to help offset and neutralize its carbon footprint.
The company also makes shopping for the perfect scent extra easy. Choose from a myriad of options, including Black Fig, Sweet Grapefruit, Ojai Lavender, Spiced Pumpkin, Apple Picking, and more.
4. Keys Soulcare
From Alicia Keys’ minimalist skincare company, Keys Soulcare, this soothing and calming artisanal, hand-poured vegan candle scented with sage and oat milk invites you to relax, put your senses at ease, and enjoy the moment.
The scent of oat milk brings relaxation, and sage calms and restores. Made with soy wax, pure essential oils, and developed by dermatologist experts, this candle won the Pop Sugar Beauty Awards – Best Self Care Products: Scent Superstars.
5. Homecourt
From Courteney Cox’s Homecourt, a clean-burning and indulgently fragranced Steeped Rose-scented candle for any room of the home. Vegan, cruelty-free, soy wax blends with organic cotton wicks, each candle is hand-poured into kiln-fired ceramic vessels for an eco-friendly experience for the senses.
Like all of its products, Homecourt selects its ingredients carefully to be non-toxic and safe for people and pets. Whenever possible, the company uses upcycled, plant-derived, and skincare-level ingredients.
6. Keystone Inspired Co.
This woman-owned, vegan brand handcrafts its candles using soy wax, natural cotton wicks, and a blend of phthalate-free fragrance and essential oils. The company is also plastic-free. Its labels and boxes are made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled materials. Candles can also be purchased in tin or recycled glass containers.
For sweet-smelling seasonal scents, shop the company’s Fall Collection, which features scents of Autumn Apple and Bonfire. Relax and unwind with scents like lavender, sage, and cedarwood, courtesy of the brand’s Calming Collection. Or be inspired by nature with the Coastal or Mountain Collections.
7. Vegan Candle Co.
Carrying scents so good you want to eat ‘em, Vegan Candle Co. is the go-to for ethically sourced and eco-friendly vegan candles. The company uses natural soy wax and lead-free cotton-paper wicks, as well as a blend of essential oils and skin-safe fragrance oils to get the perfect scent. Plus, all of its labels are biodegradable and printed using sustainable soy ink.
Cuddle up next to the fireplace with the Fireside Candle. Or let your nose breathe in the fruity-floral fragrance of the Sweet Pea Jasmine Candle.
8. NoHo Candle Co.
Luxurious and eco-friendly, this brand carries an aromatic array of soy and coconut candles. Handmade in Los Angeles in small batches using sustainably-sourced ingredients, you’ll find a scent for every occasion.
For a classic scent, shop Santal Amber, which features a top note of sandalwood. Or get in the seasonal spirit with the Pumpkin Patch candle, which smells just like a freshly-baked pumpkin pie.
9. Homesick
Candles are for the home, so it makes sense they should remind you of home, too. Homesick does just that with its regionally focused scents for the candle lovers who’ve since moved away or simply can’t get enough of their hometown fragrances. Made with eco soy wax and recyclable vessels, bring the scents of home to your home.
10. LAFCO
Focusing on a scent can help with meditation time, and LAFCO brings the sanctuary to you with its stunning Retreat blend that features matcha, clary sage, and palo santo. The candles are all made with eco soy wax, clean fragrances, and come in gorgeous reusable and recyclable vessels.
11. Year & Day
The Infinite Candle delivers you straight to California’s lush botanica with floral, coastal, and high desert notes so good you’ll want to keep this burning year-round. The non-toxic vegan soy wax is free of phthalates and phenols for a safe and clean burn. The elegant ceramic vessel can be emptied and repurposed around your home.
