Proper Burning of Candles reduces soot

Choosing a safe candle
A recent discovery of the affects of candle soot is still being investigated. It is being referred to as candle soot syndrome. Homes across the country have been stained with the soot that burning candles have released into the air. You may have noticed how the candles you burn turn the container black. This is candle soot, and in some homes the curtains, walls and carpets have become blackened. Heating systems have also become damaged. Researchers are still trying to determine the affects it is having on our health. The best defense against candle soot syndrome (and still enjoy burning candles), is to choose a candle that puts out the least amount of soot. Following is a guide to help you with purchasing a safe candle for you and your family. For additional information visit www.healthycandles.org.

Wax Types
Paraffin wax releases a lot of soot and contains petroleum which contains carcinogens. Soy wax is a natural wax that releases very little soot, that is carcinogen free. Sometimes candles are made by mixing parafin and soy. So, check to see if the soy wax is 100% or that it is mixed with another natural wax, such as cottonseed, palm oil, beeswax or a vegetable oil.

Wicks
All candles that are made in the USA are required to have lead free wicks. When you buy a candle, make sure it was made in the USA. Otherwise, there is no guarantee the wicks do not contain lead. However, the best types of wicks to help reduce soot are made of paper, cotton, and hemp or are coreless. Zinc core wicks are still under debate about whether or not they release a large enough amount of emissions to be harmful. Studies have shown small amounts of lead are released from zinc wicks. Also, wicks are coated with paraffin or natural wax to help them burn properly.

Candle Burning
Ok, now you have selected a healthy candle. Now it is up to you to burn it correctly to help reduce the amount of soot released. The very most important thing is to remember to keep your candle's wick trimmed to 1/8 to Ľ of an inch. This will help reduce the amount of soot released as well as keep it from flickering. The other important thing is to burn your candle for at least an hour for every inch of diamater of the candle. Its melt pool (liquid portion of wax) should reach all the way across the diameter of the candle. This will help the candle to burn evenly and will reduce soot. Always keep your candle out of drafts, which can increase soot release as well. So, enjoy burning your candle, knowing you are burning it properly and safely.