Soy candles are made from soy wax, a processed form of hydrogenated soybean oil, which is a plant-based and renewable resource. They are often marketed as a more natural alternative to traditional petroleum-derived options. Given the highly sensitive respiratory systems of infants, determining their safety requires examining all components, including the wick, fragrances, and other additives, not just the wax itself.
Examining the Soy Wax Base
Pure soy wax, independent of additives, is generally considered a cleaner-burning material compared to paraffin wax. Traditional paraffin is a byproduct of petroleum refining, and its combustion can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and toluene. Soy wax, being vegetable-derived, burns at a cooler temperature, which contributes to its lower soot production.
This comparative advantage only applies to 100% soy wax. Many commercially available products are blends that may incorporate paraffin or other additives. Choosing a candle that explicitly states it is made from pure soy wax isolates the wax’s safety profile from the potential risks of other components.
The Hidden Risks of Wicks and Soot
The wick and the resulting particulate matter present a safety consideration that applies to all types of candles, including soy. Some wicks historically contained a metal core, such as zinc or lead, to help them stand upright in the melted wax pool. Burning a lead-containing wick releases harmful metal particles into the air, posing a neurodevelopmental risk to infants if inhaled.
Even wicks made from 100% cotton or natural fibers produce ultrafine particulate matter, commonly known as soot. When a candle flame flickers, it generates microscopic carbon particles that can be inhaled. An infant’s developing lungs and smaller airways are particularly susceptible to irritation and inflammation from this airborne pollution. Soot exposure can potentially worsen or trigger respiratory issues like asthma in young children.
Fragrances and Additives: The Primary Concern
The greatest chemical concern in nearly all candles, including those made with soy wax, originates from the fragrances and dyes used. Many scented candles, especially those using synthetic fragrances, release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the indoor air upon burning. Common VOCs released include formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, which are known respiratory irritants and can negatively impact indoor air quality.
Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates, chemicals used to help the scent linger longer in the air. Phthalates are known endocrine-disrupting chemicals, meaning they can potentially interfere with hormonal function. Since babies inhale more air relative to their body weight than adults, even low concentrations of these chemicals can have a more pronounced effect on their developing nervous and respiratory systems.
It is a common misconception that candles scented with natural essential oils are automatically safe for infants. While they avoid the synthetic chemical cocktail, essential oils are still potent compounds that release their own VOCs when heated. Overexposure to concentrated essential oil vapors in a poorly ventilated space can still trigger respiratory distress or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including babies. The concentration of any fragrance, synthetic or natural, remains the primary factor determining chemical exposure.
Best Practices for Candle Use Around Infants
Parents who choose to use candles near infants should focus on mitigation strategies to reduce exposure to potential irritants. Selecting products that clearly state they are made from 100% soy wax or beeswax and are completely unscented is the most direct way to reduce chemical output. Additionally, always confirm the wick is lead-free, opting for natural fiber or wood wicks.
Proper usage and placement are just as important as product selection for minimizing risk. Candles should always be placed on a stable surface well out of the infant’s reach, such as on a high mantelpiece or shelf. Ensuring the room has adequate ventilation, such as by opening a window slightly, helps to quickly disperse any airborne particles or VOCs released during burning. Limiting the duration of burning time, perhaps to no more than one to two hours, also restricts the total amount of pollutants introduced into the home environment.