Oh, the pure joy of being a new parent — every cuddle, every coo, every moment filled with love. But along with that euphoria, there’s a persistent concern that often tugs at our hearts: Is our home entirely safe for our precious little one? Especially those scented candles we adore so much for the warm, inviting ambiance they create. This blog post aims to unravel what scientific research tells us about the potential effects of scented candles on babies. We'll also offer some advice to navigate this concern.
The health impacts of scented candles
Now, let's talk science. Some burning candles, especially those made of paraffin wax, emit petite particles when burned. Substances like benzene and formaldehyde are included in these particles. Sounds scary? Well, don't be. According to a 2014 study, even after four hours of burning, those chemicals are less than half as high as the air quality limits set by the World Health Organization. And these levels were within the range of typical indoor air concentrations. So under normal use, these scented candles aren't likely to harm you. But some people might still experience mild discomfort such as headaches and migraines if they have allergies. Reactions may vary among individuals and can often depend upon the fragrance and intensity of the scent.
Are candles safe for babies?
The truth is, we don’t have a solid yes or no answer just yet. There haven’t been specific studies about how infants react to these airborne particles from a scented candle. Despite these reassurances from existing studies, it’s important to remember that these were not conducted specifically on infants. Babies have developing lungs and immune systems, which could potentially make them more susceptible to airborne particles and chemicals than adults. So what can we do?
Tips to minimize potential risks of scented candles
Here are some tips to help you enjoy the benefits of your scented candles while minimizing potential hazards.
Candle safety tips and safer alternatives
While we wait for more infant-specific research, we can take some smart steps. The National Candle Association – yes, there's an association for candles – recommends using candles in well-ventilated spaces, avoiding drafts, and keeping candle wicks trimmed. Ensuring that the pool of wax is free of debris also helps reduce the amount of soot released into the air. Remember, the cleaner the burning, the safer for our tiny tots.
If you have environmental concerns or are weary about the potential health impacts of paraffin wax (which is made from petroleum by-products), consider using candles made from soy, stearin, or beeswax instead. Soy candles have been shown to produce less soot than paraffin candles.
Look for clues from your baby
Be mindful of any signs of irritation in your baby when burning scented candles. Look out for signs such as a runny nose, sneezing, or any irritation. These might indicate sensitivity or even an allergic reaction to certain fragrances. If there's a reaction, consider switching either to unscented candles or stepping away from candles for a while.
Quality Over Quantity
The quality of the candles you use can significantly affect the levels of toxins they emit when burned. High-quality candles tend to burn cleaner and produce fewer soot particles than cheaper ones. Look for candles made by reputable manufacturers who are transparent about their ingredients and processes.
Natural Alternatives to Scented Candles
If you want the inviting ambiance a candle creates without the potential risks, there are plenty of natural alternatives. Essential oil diffusers are a popular choice and offer a range of aromas to create a relaxing environment. You can choose oils that are known to be safe for babies, such as lavender, chamomile, and dill. Just as with candles, be sure to use the diffuser in a well-ventilated space and monitor your baby for possible reactions.
Air purifying plants can also help improve air quality in your home. Plants such as spider plants, snake plants, and aloe vera not only absorb carbon dioxide but also filter out harmful toxins, releasing clean oxygen into your home. You could also consider boiling a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, clove, and orange rind to fill your home with a warm and inviting aroma.
The Final Word
To sum it up, scientific understanding of the effects of scented candles on babies is still in its nascent stages. While existing studies haven't conclusively established a direct link between the use of scented candles and harmful effects on babies, it's best to err on the side of caution. Follow best practices like trimming the candle wick, ensuring ventilation, and cleaning the debris to reduce the amount of soot in the air.
Always monitor your baby for any signs of irritation. Consider Soy wax, coconut wax, and beeswax to replace Paraffin wax for cleaner burning. Always stay attuned to your baby's reaction. Signs of irritation like a runny nose, sneezing, or any other unusual symptoms could indicate a sensitivity or allergic reaction to a burning candle. In case of allergic reactions, natural fragrances might be a good choice to consider, offering the warmth and ambiance we love about scented candles while keeping potential chemical-related risks minimal.
You can also consider alternatives like essential oil diffusers and air purifying plants to improve the air quality. While it's important to create a calming and soothing environment in our homes, the safety and well-being of our little ones should always take precedence.