Many people are into using scented candles at home as it offers a fragrant and cozy atmosphere. They are wax-based products that contain fragrance, which is either natural or synthetic, often made of essential oils from plants. Scented candles are made to emit pleasant scents when lit, which can enhance the ambiance of a certain area and create a relaxing environment. That is why a lot of people use them to unwind after a long day of work.
Scented candles can be used in different parts of your home. You can light one in the living room, bedroom, and even in the bathroom while you are relaxing in the bathtub. While scented candles have gained significant popularity, have you ever wondered whether they are good for you or not? Before you use scented candles at home, it is also important to consider their pros and cons first.
In this article, we are going to explore the advantages and disadvantages of using scented candles. This way, we will be able to shed light on the potential benefits they offer along with the possible drawbacks they may come with. Understanding the pros and cons will also help you decide whether scented candles are good for you.
Pros of Using Scented Candles
There are several benefits that scented candles can offer, which contribute to creating a good and inviting atmosphere in your home, to learn about these, below are some of the advantages of using scented candles:
Creation of a Pleasant Atmosphere
When you light a scented candle at home, it creates a calming ambiance, making it easier to unwind after a long and tiring day. The gentle flickering flame along with the soothing fragrance promotes relaxation and tranquility for homeowners. In addition to that, they also add warmth and coziness to any space. The soft glow and comforting scents of scented candles can make your home feel more inviting, particularly during colder seasons.
Aromatherapy Benefits
The different scents of scented candles have the power to influence our emotions and mental well-being. Those that are infused with essential oils or natural fragrances can help uplift your mood, reduce stress, and create a more positive atmosphere. Also, different scents have specific therapeutic benefits. For example, lavender can promote better sleep and relaxation, while citrus scents can help boost focus and energy. This means that you can tailor the fragrance of scented candles to your desired effect.
Removing Unpleasant Odors
If there are unpleasant odors in your home, scented candles can also be a practical solution for eliminating or masking them. You can use a scented candle to neutralize pet odors, cooking smells, or other lingering scents, keeping your home fresh. You can also choose scented candles with fragrance notes that complement or overpower unpleasant odors to create a more pleasant living environment.
Decorative and Stylish
In addition to the fragrance that scented candles offer, most of them are also decorative and stylish. They come in different designs, from elegant to whimsical. You can also find them in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing you to choose those that will match your home décor or personal style. With this, you can use scented candles to enhance the visual appeal of a certain room. They can serve as focal points and add a touch of sophistication to your living space.
Cons of Using Scented Candles
Scented candles indeed offer many advantages. However, it is still important to consider the possible drawbacks associated with their usage. Below are some of the disadvantages of using scented candles:
Potential Health Risks
There are some scented candles that contain synthetic fragrances and other additives that release harmful chemicals when burned. These chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and soot, can negatively affect the indoor air quality in your home and potentially contribute to respiratory issues. Aside from that, prolonged use of scented candles, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces, may lead to the accumulation of pollutants in the air, causing discomfort and potential health risks for individuals with sensitivities or respiratory conditions.
Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities
The fragrances and additives that scented candles contain can also trigger allergies or irritate existing respiratory conditions in some people, particularly those who have allergies or asthma. Individuals who have sensitivities to certain chemicals may experience symptoms like sneezing, headaches, or breathing difficulties when exposed to scented candles. Also, the inhalation of irritants emitted by scented candles can worsen their symptoms and compromise their respiratory health.
Fire Hazard
Since scented candles feature open flames, they pose a fire hazard if left unattended or placed near flammable objects. Accidental tipping or forgetting to extinguish them may lead to fires and property damage. Aside from that, careless handling of scented candles may also result in burns to people or damage to belongings. If not handled carefully, the hot wax, heat, and open flame emitted by the candle may cause accidents.
Environmental Impact
The majority of scented candles available in the market are made from petroleum-based wax, which comes from non-renewable fossil fuels. This means that the extraction and production of these materials contribute to environmental degradation and carbon emissions. Aside from that, scented candles also often come with packaging that adds to waste generation. After burning, the remnants of the candle, including the container, may not be easily recycled, leading to increased landfill waste.
How to Handle and Use Scented Candles Safely
In order to ensure the safe and responsible use of scented candles, below are some of the best tips that we can give:
Do Not Leave a Burning Candle Unattended
When you light a scented candle, make sure that you supervise it. Never leave them burning unattended, particularly in rooms where there are flammable materials. Before leaving the room or going to bed, make sure that you extinguish all scented candles properly to prevent fire and accidents.
Keep Candles Away from Flammable Objects
When you are going to light a scented candle, make sure that you place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface, far from curtains, bedding, furniture, and other flammable materials. Always make sure that there is enough space around the candle to prevent accidental contact with other items, which may lead to a fire.
Always Trim Candle Wicks
Before lighting the candle or during use, always keep the wick trimmed to about ¼ inch. It’s because a long wick may cause the flame to flicker excessively and produce more soot.
Utilize Candle Holders and Appropriate Surfaces
You also need to make sure that the scented candle is placed in a sturdy candle holder that can catch any dripping wax and prevent the candle from tipping over. Avoid placing the candles on uneven or unstable surfaces that may cause them to fall and burn other things.
Pick Scented Candles That are Natural and Non-Toxic
As much as possible, only use scented candles that are made from natural materials, such as beeswax or soy. These burn clearer and produce fewer toxins compared to petroleum-based candles. It is also great if you can find scented candles that are scented with essential oils or those labeled as non-toxic and free from harmful additives.
Store the Candles Safely
You may store unused scented candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help maintain their quality and avoid the risk of accidental ignition.
These safety tips will help you minimize the possible risks that may come with the use of scented candles and enjoy their benefits responsibly.
Conclusion
Scented candles are indeed a great way to add some fun and relaxing atmosphere to your home. They can help you reduce stress and anxiety, making them perfect when it comes to unwinding at the end of the day. Also, different aromatic candles can also help in many other things, such as energizing, improving focus, and enhancing sleep quality. But it is also important to consider some of their drawbacks, and always make sure that you use them safely and carefully.
Considering the pros and cons of scented candles is important as these will help you make the best decision when it comes to incorporating them into your home. If you find scented candles not the best option for you, there are also other options you can try, such as essential oil diffusers and natural air fresheners. We hope this article helped you learn more about the pros and cons of using scented candles.