Choosing candles with care
Lighting a candle is one of the simplest rituals we have for creating calm. There’s something grounding about that small, flickering flame, yet we rarely think about what’s actually inside the candle and what we’re breathing in when it burns.
Many candles on the market are made from paraffin, a byproduct of the petroleum industry. When a paraffin candle burns, it releases substances like toluene and benzene the same particles found in car exhaust. This affects both the air and the atmosphere in your home. Some candles also contain synthetic fragrances and dyes that can irritate the airways or trigger headaches.
Another common material is stearin. It burns better than paraffin but is often made from animal fats or palm oil, which isn’t always sustainable. It’s always worth checking the source and whether the manufacturer uses certified palm oil.
There are better alternatives.
Natural waxes such as soy, European rapeseed, coconut, and beeswax are renewable and biodegradable. They burn cleanly, slowly, and without releasing harmful particles. A candle made from these waxes offers a clear flame and a soft scent without harming the environment.
Soy wax, made from soybean oil, is one of the most popular natural choices. It burns gently and holds scent well. Rapeseed wax, often grown in Europe, is equally clean but more locally produced. Coconut wax creates a creamy texture and burns cool, while beeswax purifies the air and has a natural honey-like aroma.
The wick matters too. Organic cotton wicks are free from metal and chemicals, allowing for an even, soot-free burn. The same goes for fragrance, natural oils or plant-based perfumes create a soothing scent without synthetic additives.
At Altura Living, we’ve chosen candles from Milky Candle, handcrafted in small batches in the heart of France. They’re made with 100% natural soy and rapeseed wax, free from paraffin, GMOs, and hormone-disrupting substances. The wicks are organic cotton, and the scents come from Grasse, the legendary French town known for the world’s finest perfumes.
For us, candles are more than just ambiance. They’re about creating a cleaner, more conscious atmosphere where you can breathe deeply and feel at peace. An ecological candle is a small detail that truly makes a difference, both for your home and for the world around you.