Scented candles have become the hottest trend in home décor not because of the decorative appeal but because of many benefits. Burning a scented candle can help reduce stress and provide a sense of calmness. Despite being beneficial, some might not realize the potential danger to babies for just a little bundle of joy.
So, will you keep your wonderful collection of candles unburned for the next 15 years? Can you be a good parent and still enjoy the relaxing & soothing flames of your scented candles?
Of course, yes. However, you must consider some extra safety points before using scented candles around baby. So, let’s dive into this article and start mixing scented candles & babies.
Risk of Burning Scented Candles Around a Baby
A scented candle releases fragrance from the hot wax pool of the candle jar from the solid candle. These small & tiny scents are mixed into the air and inhaled through oxygen, which can harm babies. Burning these candles can irritate your babies’ lungs as they are not fully developed until age three.
It’s generally recommended to avoid using any fragrant products around a newborn or sleeping environment. Exposure to aerosol pollutants can damage the baby’s lungs or cause allergies.
However, using natural ingredients such as beeswax or soy wax candles with natural fragrances will be best.
Which Candle Wax is Safe to Burn Near Baby?
Here is a quick guide to if you are looking for the ways to burn scented candles around your baby:
- Baby Safe Candle Wax – Candles of beeswax, soy wax, or natural coconut wax are non-toxic. When burnt, these candles also produce negligible amounts of soot & toxins into the atmosphere. Thus, avoid using wax blends that contain paraffin wax or sometimes soy wax blend.
- Ingredients – Always go with those candles that offer a list of complete ingredients used in the candles. The ingredient’s transparency lets you know the material you are burning in your home.
- Lead-free Wick – Always check that the wick of a candle is lead-free. Lead can produce certain toxins that are harmful to babies.
- Natural Fragrance – The candles of pure & natural essential oil or natural fragrance oil are healthier than synthetic fragrances.
- No Added Dyes – Candles without dyes are considered a better option as they are free from extra chemicals that can be spread into the air when burnt.
- Certifications – Look for those brands of candles with some reputable third-party test claims or certifications. You should check if the candle is clean & safe, contains essential oils, or is paraffin-free.
How to Burn Scented Candles Around Baby?
An ideal location is crucial when burning a candle around an infant. You cannot place a candle reachable to your baby, as there is a considerable risk of some mishap or accident.
Here are some valuable tips to burn a candle around a baby:
Location – Place a candle out of your baby’s reach, such as mantels, shelves, or tables. However, make sure that the surface of the location is stable & secure.
Secure Candle Holder – Always use a sturdy holder for your candle that does not topple easily. This ensures that the candle deeply & firmly fits into the holder.
Away from Flammable Material – Before burning a candle, check if the candle is away from curtains, drapes, or any other flammable object that can easily catch fire with the candle flame.
No Drafty Areas – Never place a candle in any drafty area where the air gusts cause the flame to flicker widely and can go out unexpectedly.
Never Leave Candle Unattended – After you burn a candle, make sure to stay near the candle, especially when you have babies in your house.
Time & Place – Babies’ sleep is unpredictable, and they can sleep anytime. Even if you have the best candles for bedroom avoid placing them if your baby sleep in that room.
Also, you can limit scented candles to 3-4 hours a day until the age of three of your babies.
How Safe are Beeswax Candles for Babies?
Beeswax candles are the most suitable candles you can burn around your babies. These candle waxes are made from a natural source. Therefore, when combined with natural fragrance oils, they offer a clean & safe burn.
Beeswax candles has several benefits like they do not produce harmful toxins or nasties into the atmosphere when burnt. However, you need to ensure that the wick is unbleached or dipped into the candle before you use the one.
Are Wooden Wick Candles Safe for Newborns?
Wooden wick candles are seen as more sustainable & less detrimental, as they are derived from natural resources, wood. These candle wicks produce a safe & cleaner burn while creating a crackling & soothing sound when burnt.
A significant advantage of using wood wick candles with newborns is that these wicks don’t have any carbon build-up, which is expected on the tip of a cotton wick candle. This creates less noise in the atmosphere, making it safer even when the babies are around. However, make sure to use only a wooden wick-scented candle with oils.
Wrapping Up
Becoming a parent for the first time comes with many responsibilities & new challenges. Therefore, choosing a scented or unscented candle when you have babies in your house requires certain precautions.
No matter how expensive you will use a candle, make sure it is made of natural soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax with no added paraffin.
At Murari Candles, we care for your baby and have the candles safe for your newborns. So, enjoy a great experience of being a good parent with our scented candles.