Is it safe to use scented candles at home with children?
Caution. Paraffin wax candles release benzene, toluene, and other VOCs when burned. Scented versions add synthetic fragrance chemicals to the mix.
What's actually in it
Most scented candles are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum byproduct that releases benzene, toluene, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acrolein, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons when burned. The synthetic fragrances added to scented candles further contribute VOCs including phthalates that act as fragrance carriers.
Children breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults, and their developing lungs and brains are more sensitive to air pollutants. Regular candle burning in enclosed spaces can meaningfully raise indoor VOC concentrations.
What the research says
A 2026 study on indoor air quality and household products found that combustion sources including candles contribute significantly to indoor VOC levels. Researchers found that households with frequent candle use had higher indoor benzene and formaldehyde concentrations compared to non-candle households.
If you want the ambiance of candles, beeswax candles with cotton wicks and no synthetic fragrance are a lower-emission option. Open windows when burning any candles and never burn them in small, unventilated spaces where children spend time.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| VOCs in household products and indoor air quality | Indoor Air Environ | 2026 |
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