Posted 15 November 2023

Candle Ingredients

I've heard today about dangerous ingredients in scented candles. This prompted me to research the safety data sheet on the candle sitting on my desk at home.

Anyone suggest a location where I can get advice on the terms used in the data sheet? The term that sticks out under 'Other hazards' is 'Product fails to meet PBT/vPvB criteria'. I know that the presence of PBT/vPvB isn't good news but I don't know if failing to meet the criteria means it does or doesn't reach safe levels.
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  1. RadiantDuck's avatar
    I can't help you with the details there, but one thing to note, bees wax candles are much cleaner to burn, and have a subtle scent, though not as strong as proper scented candles. They are pricey though.
  2. ahammert's avatar
    The full list of risk and safety phrases is here - ec.europa.eu/tax…htm, however understanding safety data sheets isn't that straight-forward. PBT/PvB isn't a substance, it's a shorthand description for substances that can bioaccumulate. (See chemsafetypro.com/Top…tml if you're finding it hard to sleep anytime)

    Assuming you've bought the candle from a reputable source (i.e. it's not a dodgy Chinese import - look at what they've put in baby formula!) and you don't have a candle eating/sniffing compulsion, it is extraordinarily unlikely that your candle is causing any risk of concern. (edited)
    Gummo's avatar
    Author
    Thank you!
  3. mysmugcat's avatar
    Interesting. I have not ate any candles (yet) but I do notice they made me cough more after burning. It may not be of interest, but I cough less since discontinuing use of them. (edited)
    ahammert's avatar
    The burning process produces soot and other particulates that can irritate the throat. Coughing is normally a function that indicates maybe you shouldn't continue doing what you're currently doing. Ignoring the bodies natural response could result in problems but you'd have to be pretty bloody minded/insistent to cause any significant ill health effects with domestic products.
  4. Gummo's avatar
    Author
    Well, I've decided to pack in burning candles and melt the remaining contents without direct flame contact. Thanks for all your advice.
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