Is black smoke from candles bad for me and the environment?

Question

Does anyone know of a candle brand that doesn't give off all that black smoke? I usually buy cheapie candles from the drugstore or Target and I've heard that can have something to do with it. Also, my wick might not be cut short enough. I've tried to fix both of those things and I still get the black smoke. It totally ruins the point of trying to relax with a candle on. Where can I get a nice candle that won't give off all that black smoke??? Also, is the smoke bad for me? Its in a relatively large room I'm not directly inhaling it- but I get the same feeling as when I'm driving behind a truck that gives off a bunch of black smoke. Ew! It just seems bad for the environment. Is that true? Please help, I'm trying to be green here :)

Answer 1

candles made from spermaceti from whales put out the least amount of soot. but you will only find them in museums now.

anything you burn for light wheather candles or lamps puts unburned hydrocarbons into the air & will darken your ceilings & lungs.

Answer 2

I have also heard that the smoke that comes from many candles isn't so healthy.  I have a chronic cough and my father always thought it had to do with my love of burning candles.  You might want to look into soy candles.  I also belong to an international wellness company that sells environmentally safe candles, cleansers, and hygiene.  I have three kids in the house so my husband and I are starting to look into how harmful everyday products can be.  If you like more info into what we have found out, please drop us a line.  Our website is www.healthyfamilyforme.com.  The research is out there we just have to educate ourselves.

Answer 3

It is the led in the wick. It is bad for both you and the enviroment. Try a flameless candle or buy a candle warmer.

Answer 4

ACCORDING TO REPORTS,  UNLESS YOU GET CANDLES MADE IN THE U.S., ALL OTHER CANDLES HAVE LEAD WIRE IN THE WICK.  

IF ONE BURNS A LOT OF CANDLES, YOU WILL THEN HAVE A  VERY HIGH LEAD CONTENT IN YOUR HOME IF LETS SAY YOU HAVE BURN CANDLES DAILY FOR YEARS.  YOU THEN WILL HAVE TO LET BUYER KNOW THIS SHOULD YOU SELL YOU HOME...

AN THAT IS NOT GOOD FOR YOU EITHER BECAUSE YOU ARE BREATHING IN LEAD....

GO TO THIS SITE FOR LEAD FREE WICKS..

WWW.LEADFREECANDLES.ORG

HOPE THIS HELPS

SILVERWOLFWON

AKA

MOM

UPDATE.

WWW.GATEWAYCANDLES.COM

FOR LEAD FREE ALSO...

ANOTHER UPDATE

http://www.topcandlesites.com/

Answer 5

I don't know if the black smoke is a health hazard, but the black smoke will ultimately leave marks on walls and ceilings.  I find that cheap candles seem to have a greater problem in this area.  If you are willing to spend a bit more, look for soy or beeswax candles, I find they generally don't have this problem.