It’s hard not to love the ambience created by the warm glow and soothing scent of a candle, but unfortunately store-bought candles are filled with artificial fragrances, toxins and pollutants that can aggravate allergies and asthma. Fancy candles can also cost a pretty penny, especially for something that is just going to burn and melt away. Luckily, you can easily solve both problems by making these simple, inexpensive, organic DIY candles. The best part about these candles is not only do they save money and take only minutes to make, but they are non-toxic, and actually work to purify the air rather than polluting it.
Natural Ingredients for Candles
Beeswax
Beeswax is commonly used in natural candles, and is a great alternative for store-bought candles containing toxins. While candles with artificial fragrances pollute the air, beeswax candles actually purify the air by emitting negative ions that work to get rid of mold, allergens, dust and other pollutants. Beeswax also has a wonderful natural smell which can be used on its own or blended with fragrances from essential oils. Organic beeswax can be found at many craft stores or online, but it’s a great idea to check if there are beekeepers in your town to support local businesses.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is another great choice for non-toxic candles. Soy wax is an organic wax that comes from soybeans, which makes it a great choice for those who would prefer to avoid using animal products. Soy wax is easy to melt and burns at lower temperatures, making it a safe and easy ingredient to use in your candles. Organic soy wax can be found at your local craft store or online.
Essential oils
Why would you want to use candles with toxic fragrances when you could be getting all the aromatic benefits of essential oils? Essential oils can kill airborne pathogens, promote feelings of restfulness and relaxation, uplift your mood, or keep you focused and energized.
Essential Oil Blends for Candles
- Uplift: Orange and Lime Essential Oils.
- Relax: Lavender and Eucalyptus Essential Oils
- Energize: Lime and Spearmint Essential Oils
- Focus: Lemongrass and Peppermint Essential Oils
The limits are endless when it comes to choosing essential oils for your candles. Think about which oils you like and what kind of candle you want to make, and experiment with different combinations of scents.
Ingredients:
- Beeswax pellets/blocks OR
- Soy wax flakes
- 40-50 drops of essential oils of your choice
- Cotton wicks
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Pencils
- Glass or ceramic jars, teacups or other vessels for the candles-use your imagination!
Directions:
- Trim the cotton wicks to fit the jars or cups you’ve chosen for your candles. Leave an extra inch to wrap around the pencils.
- Wrap the top of each wick around a pencil and place the wick in the jar. Rest the pencil on top of the jar to keep the wick in place.
- Using a saucepan, melt the wax on low heat, stirring frequently. When the wax is completely melted, remove the saucepan from the burner.
- Add the essential oils to the wax and stir.
- Use a funnel or spoon to pour the wax into the candle vessels.
- Leave the candles to cool overnight.
- Once the candles have cooled, remove the pencils and trim the wicks to 1/2 inch.
These candles take only minutes to make, smell great and help to purify the air of toxins and pollutants. They make great gifts and are a fun project to do with the kids or a craft-night with friends. With a few simple ingredients, you can have your own natural, non-toxic candles in no time.