Candles are widely used for ambiance, but concerns about indoor air quality have led consumers to question the safety of materials. Beeswax candles, derived from honeybee honeycomb, are often promoted as a natural and healthier alternative to conventional waxes. The central question is whether this natural substance truly burns cleanly and avoids releasing harmful byproducts. Scientific analysis of the wax’s makeup and combustion behavior provides an evidence-based answer regarding its classification as a non-toxic option.
The Chemical Composition of Beeswax
Beeswax is a complex, natural substance produced by honeybees, who secrete the wax from glands on their abdomens to build honeycomb. Chemically, this wax is predominantly composed of long-chain esters, formed by the combination of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols. These wax esters constitute the majority of the material, typically 45% to 55%, with hydrocarbons and free fatty acids making up the remainder.
This natural composition contrasts sharply with synthetic waxes because it is not a petroleum industry byproduct. Paraffin wax, the most common candle material, is derived from crude oil refining. Beeswax is a renewable, non-petroleum-based resource, supporting its reputation as a cleaner material.
Burning Byproducts and Indoor Air Quality
All combustion, including that of a candle, releases some byproducts into the air, primarily particulate matter, or soot, from incomplete burning. When a beeswax candle is burned correctly, it produces a minimal amount of soot, resulting in a cleaner flame. This clean burn is partly attributed to the wax’s high melting point and chemical stability, allowing it to be efficiently consumed by the flame.
Beeswax is generally free of the harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) often associated with other candle types. Unlike petroleum-based waxes, which can release VOCs like benzene and toluene upon combustion, pure beeswax does not contain these compounds. Some studies suggest any burning candle can release trace amounts of VOCs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), though levels are far lower than those from synthetic or heavily fragranced products.
A commonly cited benefit of beeswax candles is the release of negative ions into the air as they burn. These negative ions are theorized to bind to positively charged airborne particles, such as dust, pollen, and pollutants, causing them to drop out of the air. While this concept aligns with air purification technology, direct scientific evidence quantifying the air-purifying effect of negative ions from a beeswax candle is currently limited.
Comparing Beeswax to Common Candle Alternatives
Beeswax is frequently compared to paraffin wax, the most widely used candle material. Paraffin is a crude oil refining byproduct, and its combustion can release indoor air pollutants like benzene and toluene, especially when heavily scented. The use of synthetic fragrances and dyes in paraffin candles further increases the release of various VOCs, contributing to indoor air pollution.
Plant-based waxes, such as soy and coconut wax, are also considered cleaner alternatives derived from renewable, natural sources. Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil, and coconut wax comes from coconut oil, making them biodegradable options. While these waxes burn cleanly and produce minimal soot, they often require additives to improve structure or hold fragrance. Consumers should look for 100% pure plant-based waxes, as some blends may include paraffin or other synthetic ingredients.
Maximizing Safety Through Proper Use
Regardless of the wax composition, proper candle maintenance ensures the cleanest possible burn and minimizes particulate matter release. Soot results from incomplete combustion, which often occurs when the wick is too long or the flame is unstable. Keeping the wick trimmed to approximately one-quarter inch before each use prevents the flame from growing too large and consuming fuel inefficiently.
The environment in which a candle burns significantly impacts its performance and cleanliness. Placing a candle away from drafts, such as open windows, fans, or air vents, keeps the flame steady. A flickering flame is a sign of an unstable burn, which pulls too much fuel and expels uncombusted wax particles as smoke and soot. Ensuring adequate fresh air ventilation in the room maintains good indoor air quality while enjoying any candle.