Are Your Candles Toxic? 8 Safe Brands For A Healthy Pregnancy

That ‘Fresh Linen’ or ‘Vanilla Bean’ candle might smell divine, but what’s actually creating that scent? The problem with many mass-market candles lies in what they’re made of. When burned, these components can pollute your indoor air with toxins that are particularly concerning during pregnancy. Let’s break down the main offenders.

Paraffin Wax: The Petroleum Problem

The vast majority of candles on the market are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. While it’s cheap and holds scent well, studies, including one from South Carolina State University, have found that burning paraffin wax releases highly toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, such as benzene and toluene. These are known carcinogens and can be harmful to the respiratory system. When you’re pregnant, minimizing exposure to such chemicals is crucial for your baby’s healthy development.

Synthetic Fragrances & Hidden Phthalates

This is perhaps the biggest concern. The simple word ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’ on a label can hide a complex mixture of hundreds of chemicals, including phthalates. Phthalates are used to make scents last longer, but they are also known endocrine disruptors. This means they can interfere with the body’s hormonal system. The Endocrine Society has linked prenatal exposure to certain phthalates with potential impacts on child development. Choosing candles that are transparent about their scent ingredients is key.

Choosing products free from synthetic fragrances is one of the most impactful changes you can make for a healthier home environment during pregnancy.

Lead-Core Wicks: An Old but Lingering Danger

Thankfully, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the manufacture and sale of candles with lead-core wicks in 2003. Lead is a potent neurotoxin, and its exposure is especially dangerous for a developing fetus. However, it’s wise to be cautious with older candles you may have stored away or candles imported from countries with less stringent regulations. A safe candle should always have a wick made from 100% cotton, paper, or natural wood.

Soot and Particulate Matter

Even if a candle is made from better ingredients, all flames produce some level of soot and particulate matter. These microscopic particles can be inhaled and irritate the lungs. Heavily dyed or scented paraffin candles tend to produce the most soot. During pregnancy, your respiratory system can already be more sensitive, so reducing indoor air pollutants is always a good idea. You can minimize soot by always trimming the wick to 1/4 inch before each use and avoiding placing candles in drafty areas.

Now that you know what to avoid, let’s focus on the good stuff! Shopping for safe candles can be simple and empowering once you know what to look for. Think of it as reading a food label—you’re just checking the ingredients to make sure they’re wholesome and nourishing for your environment. Keep this checklist handy when you shop.

The Non-Toxic Candle Checklist

• Check the Wax: Look for candles made from 100% natural waxes. The best options are soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax (or a blend of these). They burn cleaner, last longer, and are biodegradable and renewable.
• Examine the Wick: Ensure the wick is made from 100% cotton, paper, or untreated wood. If you’re unsure, you can test it: rub the tip of an unburnt wick on a piece of paper. If it leaves a grey, pencil-like mark, it may contain a metal core.
• Investigate the Scent Source: This is critical. Opt for candles scented only with 100% pure essential oils or those explicitly labeled as ‘phthalate-free’. Brands that are proud of their clean ingredients will be transparent about them. If the label just says ‘fragrance,’ be skeptical.
• A Note on Essential Oils: While natural, not all essential oils are recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Most reputable candle brands use oils in dilutions that are generally considered safe for aromatherapy, but it’s always wise to be cautious. Mild scents like lavender, chamomile, and citrus are often preferred. Avoid candles with strong concentrations of oils like clary sage (can induce contractions), rosemary, and jasmine until you’ve cleared them with your healthcare provider.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose a candle that adds comfort and joy to your home without compromising your health or peace of mind.

To make your search easier, we’ve researched and compiled a list of eight brands that are committed to creating beautiful, safe, and non-toxic candles perfect for expecting parents. This table provides a quick overview to help you compare them at a glance.

Brand Name	Primary Wax Type	Scent Source	Price Range	Key Feature
Grow Fragrance	100% Soy & Coconut Wax	Plant-Based Fragrances (Phthalate-Free)	$$	100% Plant-Based & Toxin-Free Certified
Fontana Candle Co.	Beeswax & Coconut Oil	100% Essential Oils	$$$	MADE SAFE® Certified, Uniquely Wooden Wicks
The Little Market	100% Soy Wax	Essential Oils & Phthalate-Free Oils	$$	Fair Trade, Supports Female Artisans
Slow North	100% Soy Wax	100% Essential Oils	$$$	Small-Batch, Hand-Poured in Austin, TX
Brooklyn Candle Studio	100% Soy Wax	Phthalate-Free Perfume Oils & Essential Oils	$$	Minimalist Aesthetic, Complex Scents
P.F. Candle Co.	100% Soy Wax	Phthalate-Free Fragrance Oils	$	Affordable & Widely Available
Here for the Burn	100% Soy Wax	Premium Fragrance & Essential Oils (Phthalate-Free)	$$	Fun, Giftable Labels & Packaging
Pure Plant Home	100% Soy & Coconut Wax	100% Real Plant Aromas	$$	USDA Certified Organic Ingredients

Now, let’s dive deeper into what makes each of these brands a fantastic choice for your home. We’ve highlighted their unique qualities, pros, and cons to help you find the perfect match for your nesting needs.

1. Grow Fragrance

Grow Fragrance is a leader in transparency and safety. They are committed to 100% plant-based ingredients, not just for their candles but for their entire line of air fresheners. Their scents are refreshing and natural, never overpowering.

• Pros: Certified toxin-free, completely transparent about ingredients, beautiful and simple packaging.
• Cons: Scents are often lighter and may not fill a very large room as intensely as synthetic fragrances.

2. Fontana Candle Co.

If you’re looking for the highest standard of safety, Fontana is it. They are one of the few candle companies to be MADE SAFE® Certified, meaning their products are free from a long list of harmful chemicals. Their use of beeswax and coconut oil provides a clean, slow burn.

• Pros: Unmatched safety certification, unique crackling wooden wicks, scented only with pure essential oils.
• Cons: Higher price point due to premium ingredients and certifications.

3. The Little Market

Choosing a candle from The Little Market feels good in more ways than one. Not only are they made from clean ingredients like soy wax, but every purchase supports female artisans and refugees. Their scents are lovely, and the glass containers are designed to be reused.

• Pros: Ethical and mission-driven, beautiful reusable vessels, makes a wonderful gift.
• Cons: Scent selection can be more limited than larger brands.

4. Slow North

Hand-poured in small batches in Texas, Slow North embodies a mindful, natural approach. They use only soy wax and 100% essential oils, resulting in truly therapeutic, aromatherapy-grade scents that can help create a calming atmosphere.

• Pros: High-quality, therapeutic scents; small-batch craftsmanship; aesthetically pleasing amber glass jars.
• Cons: Premium price, essential oil scents can be more subtle than synthetic ones.

5. Brooklyn Candle Studio

For those who love a chic, minimalist aesthetic and complex, sophisticated scents, Brooklyn Candle Studio is a perfect fit. They use 100% soy wax and a blend of essential oils and phthalate-free perfume oils to create their signature aromas.

• Pros: Stunning, minimalist design; complex and unique scent profiles; good burn time.
• Cons: Uses a mix of essential and perfume oils, for those who prefer 100% essential oils only.

6. P.F. Candle Co.

P.F. Candle Co. proves that safe and stylish candles can also be accessible. They are one of the most affordable and widely available brands on this list, making them a great starting point for switching to non-toxic options. Their amber jars are iconic.

• Pros: Budget-friendly, widely available in stores and online, large variety of scents.
• Cons: As a larger brand, they lack the small-batch feel of some others on the list.

7. Here for the Burn

This brand combines clean-burning soy wax and phthalate-free oils with a sense of humor. Their candles feature witty and relatable labels (like ‘Smells Like I’m Not Going’), making them a perfect gift for a baby shower or a fellow new parent.

• Pros: Fun and highly giftable, great conversation starters, clean ingredients.
• Cons: The focus is more on fun labels than complex aromatherapy scents.

8. Pure Plant Home

For the organic-conscious family, Pure Plant Home is a dream. They use USDA Certified Organic ingredients where possible and scent their candles with real fruit and plant essences. Their commitment to purity is evident in their light, authentic aromas.

• Pros: Uses organic ingredients, authentic and natural scents, great for those with high sensitivity to fragrances.
• Cons: Scents are very delicate and may not be strong enough for those used to conventional candles.

If you love a scented home but want to avoid an open flame altogether—a common concern with a new baby on the way and, eventually, a curious toddler—there are many wonderful, flame-free alternatives to explore.

Essential Oil Diffusers

An ultrasonic diffuser is an excellent way to scent your home and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of essential oils. It uses water and vibrations to create a fine, cool mist. You have complete control over the scent and its intensity. Just be sure to use high-quality, pure essential oils and follow safety guidelines for pregnancy and babies.

Reed Diffusers

Reed diffusers provide a constant, gentle scent without heat or electricity. Look for brands that use a natural, non-toxic carrier oil and phthalate-free fragrance or essential oils. They are a perfect ‘set it and forget it’ option for bathrooms or entryways.

Stovetop Simmer Pots

For a completely natural, DIY approach, a simmer pot is a beautiful option. Simply fill a small pot with water and add your favorite natural aromatics—like citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a sprig of rosemary. Let it simmer on low heat to fill your home with a warm, comforting, and all-natural fragrance.

Natural Room Sprays

Many of the brands mentioned above, like Grow Fragrance, also make plant-based room sprays. A few spritzes can instantly refresh a room before guests arrive or whenever you need a little boost. Just check the ingredients to ensure they are free from harsh chemicals and propellants.