How to Make Non-Toxic Candles: Easy DIY Beeswax Candle Recipe

There is something about candles… a dark room, a flickering light, and the right scent can turn a not-so-good day into a better one. They are romantic, relaxing, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love candles?

For years, I had them everywhere. My bedroom as a teenager was full of scented candles, and later my home was no different. But once I started researching what most candles are actually made of, I got rid of every single one. Still, I missed the cozy glow, so I began experimenting with making my own. To my surprise, it is much easier than you’d think and so much safer.

Now I want to show YOU how easy it is to make your own non-toxic, air-purifying candles. But before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why most store-bought candles can actually be harmful.

Why Most Candles Can Be Bad for You

Candles are marketed as cozy, romantic, and relaxing. The truth is that many store-bought candles can do more harm than good. The main issues come from the type of wax, the wick, and the fragrance oils used.

Paraffin Wax

Most mainstream candles are made with paraffin wax, which is a cheap petroleum by-product. When burned, paraffin releases harmful chemicals such as toluene, benzene, acetone, and formaldehyde. These are known carcinogens and respiratory irritants, and they can contribute to headaches, asthma flare-ups, and even long-term health risks.

The American Lung Association has warned about the dangers of burning paraffin candles regularly, since the indoor air pollution they create is similar to what is found in diesel fumes. Over time, this kind of exposure can put stress on your respiratory system, particularly for children, elderly adults, or anyone with asthma or allergies.

Wicks and Heavy Metals

For years, candle manufacturers used wicks reinforced with lead and other metals to help them stand upright. While lead-core wicks were banned in the U.S. in 2003, imported candles, especially inexpensive ones, may still contain them. When burned, lead particles are released into the air and can be inhaled, contributing to lead exposure. This is particularly harmful for children, as lead affects brain development and behavior.

Artificial Fragrances and Dyes

Many candles also contain synthetic fragrance oils and chemical dyes. These can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as limonene, styrene, and phthalates. The problem is that VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation. Phthalates, which are often used to make scents last longer, are endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormone balance. Artificial dyes add unnecessary chemical exposure and can also release soot when burned.

A 2009 South Carolina State University study found that burning paraffin candles indoors releases pollutants at levels that may pose a risk to human health, especially when used frequently in unventilated spaces.

Signs Your Candle Might Be Toxic

Not all candles are created equal. Here are a few red flags that the candle on your counter might not be safe:

• Black soot building up on jars, walls, or furniture is a sign of incomplete combustion.
• Strong, overpowering scents that linger long after the candle is blown out, which often means synthetic fragrance oils are being used.
• Headaches, dizziness, or irritation after lighting a candle, which is your body’s way of telling you that the VOCs are affecting you.
• No ingredient labeling. If a brand will not tell you what is in their candle, that is a sign to avoid it.

If you notice any of these, it is time to reconsider what you are burning in your home.

How to Buy Non-Toxic, Safe Candles

The good news is that not all candles are harmful. There are safer alternatives that let you enjoy the warm glow and lovely scents without polluting your indoor air.

Here is what to look for when shopping for clean-burning candles:

1. Choose the right wax: 
   • Beeswax is the gold standard. It is non-toxic, naturally honey-scented, and even helps freshen the air by releasing negative ions that bind to dust and allergens.
     • Coconut oil is also commonly added to beeswax candles to help them burn more evenly and prevent tunneling.
   • Soy wax is another good option, but make sure it is non-GMO and labeled 100 percent soy. Many candles marketed as soy are actually a soy-paraffin blend.
   • Coconut wax is newer on the market, clean-burning, and often blended with soy for better performance.
2. Check the wick: Always look for cotton or wood wicks with no metal core. Some cheaper candles still use wicks with trace metals, which can release harmful particles when burned.
3. Pick safer scents: Essential oils are the safest option if you want fragrance. Just be mindful of which oils are safe around children and pets. Avoid any candle that simply lists “fragrance” or “parfum,” since that usually means synthetic chemical blends that can release phthalates and VOCs.
4. Skip the dyes: Dyes are unnecessary and can increase soot. If you want color, choose candles made with natural dyes instead of artificial additives.
5. Support transparent brands: Companies that use safe ingredients will list them clearly. If the label is vague or missing details, it is usually a bad sign.

Why Beeswax Candles Are Amazing

My favorite candles are made with beeswax. Beeswax is non-toxic, burns longer than paraffin, and actually helps freshen the air.

When burned, beeswax emits negative ions, which bind to positively charged particles like dust, mold, and pollen. These particles then fall to the ground, helping reduce allergens in the air. That makes beeswax candles ideal for homes with allergies or asthma. They also:

• Burn cleaner and drip less than other types of candles.
• Have a naturally light honey scent without added fragrance – so you can make them unscented and still enjoy a light honey scent!
• Are beautiful in their natural golden color.

The only downside is that beeswax candles can be expensive, but making them yourself is affordable and fun.

The Secret to Great Beeswax Candles

Since beeswax candles burn at a different rate than other types of candles, choosing the right wick is key. I spent more hours than I would like to admit researching wicks, and honestly, this is where most people go wrong with candle making. The container size and wick size need to match perfectly. Otherwise, your candle may tunnel, smoke, or refuse to stay lit. To save you the trial and error I went through, I’ll share exactly what has worked for me so you can skip the frustration and enjoy candles that burn beautifully.

If you decide to use a different jar than the ones I recommend below, here’s the easiest way to figure it out: measure the diameter of your jar across the top opening. Wick manufacturers provide charts that match wick sizes to container widths, and this measurement is all you need to find the right fit. For example, a small 2-inch jar will need a much thinner wick than a wide 4-inch jar. If the wick is too small, the wax will not melt evenly and you’ll get tunneling. If the wick is too large, the candle will burn too hot and may smoke.

Once you know the diameter of your container, matching it with the right wick size becomes simple. If you are a visual learner, watch this video on different wick sizes to figure out what you need.

Here are the basics that work every time:

• Measure the diameter of your jar to pick the correct wick size.
• Use wick stickers, hot glue, or a dab of melted wax to secure the wick at the bottom of the jar before pouring in the wax.
• Always trim the wick before lighting to about one quarter inch for the best burn.

Once you get the wick right, beeswax candles are a dream to make and burn beautifully. They also make wonderful handmade gifts that people truly appreciate!

Note: If you’re going to burn scented candles near young children, make sure you make them with essential oils that are safe for babies, such as lavender and chamomile.

See how easy it is to make DIY beeswax candles by watching this video tutorial:

How to Make Homemade Beeswax Candles

This recipe makes two 4 oz candles or one 8 oz candle. I usually double or triple it to make it a bigger batch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Organic Yellow Beeswax or Organic White Beeswax
• 1/4 cup Organic Coconut Oil
• Medium candle wicks if you’re using a 4 or 8 oz jar. You can also get wicks in different sizes or use wooden wicks (I personally have not tried these two last ones)
• Candle wick stickers (optional)
• Glass jars:  4 oz or 8 oz – Pro tip: reuse glass containers!
• Optional: 2 teaspoons of essential oils. My favorite ones for beeswax scented candles are:
  • Vanilla
  • Lemon
  • Grapefruit
  • Lavender
  • Orange
  • Pine Needle
  • Holidays Scents: Spiced Cider & Candy Cane

Directions:

Melt the wax: Use the double boiler method. Fill a small saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place the beeswax and coconut oil in a heat-safe glass jar and set the jar in the middle of the pan. Stir occasionally until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.

Prepare the jars: While the beeswax is melting, get your candle jars ready. Attach the wick to the bottom of the jar using a wick sticker, or a small dab of melted wax. If you use wax as the “glue,” dip the bottom of the wick into the melted beeswax and press it firmly against the center of the jar until it hardens. Make sure the wick is centered.

If you are using melted beeswax to secure the wick, make sure it hardens before continuing.

Once your candle jars are ready, check that the beeswax and coconut oil are completely melted. There should be no visible pellets or clumps. When the mixture is smooth and fully liquid, turn off the heat.

Add scent (optional): Remove the jar from the pan and stir in your essential oils, if adding a scent. Mix well for a few seconds. Now the mixture is ready to be transferred into the glass jars.

Pour the wax: Slowly pour melted wax into your jars. Use two chopsticks, pencils or candle wick holders to keep the wick centered.

Cool down: Allow the candles to sit for several hours in a warm room until fully hardened. Avoid cooling them in a cold or drafty space, which can cause cracks on the surface. 

If a small crack does appear, don’t worry, it is just part of the beeswax settling. You can leave it as is, or if the candle is a gift, fix it by melting a small amount of beeswax using the double boiler method. Pour a thin layer over the top of the candle and let it harden to create a smooth finish.

Finish: Wait about 12 hours to make sure the beeswax is completely hardened. Trim the excess wick off. I leave about 2 inches of wick.

Now your candle is ready to be burned and enjoyed!

For best burn performance, light your candle for at least 2 hours the first time. After that first time you can burn it for as little or as long as you’d like.

Candles bring comfort, beauty, and a sense of peace to any space, but they should not come at the cost of your family’s health. Switching from paraffin to beeswax is one of the simplest, most rewarding non-toxic swaps you can make.

Once you make your first batch, you will never want to go back. They are easy, customizable, and fill your home with a natural glow and a hint of honey. Plus they make such great gifts!

So gather your jars, wicks, and wax, and start pouring. You will love how safe, beautiful, and satisfying it feels to enjoy a candle you made yourself!

FAQs About Beeswax and Non-Toxic Candles

Are soy candles always safe?
Not always. Many soy candles are blended with paraffin to cut costs. Always check that the label says 100 percent soy and non-GMO.

Are scented candles bad for you?
It depends on the fragrance. Candles made with synthetic fragrance oils can release harmful VOCs and phthalates. If you want fragrance, look for candles scented with pure essential oils.

What candles are safest for babies and kids?
Unscented beeswax candles are the safest choice. If you use essential oils, stick with gentle ones like lavender or chamomile, and keep candles out of reach of children.

Are beeswax candles safe for pets?
Yes, beeswax is non-toxic and clean-burning. If you want to add scent, check which essential oils are safe for pets, since some (like tea tree and eucalyptus) can be irritating.

Do beeswax candles really clean the air?
Beeswax releases negative ions when burned. These ions bind to dust, pollen, and other pollutants in the air, causing them to drop out of circulation. While they will not replace an air purifier, they can help freshen your indoor environment naturally.

Why mix beeswax with coconut oil?
Pure beeswax burns very hot and can sometimes tunnel. Coconut oil helps it burn more evenly and extend the life of your candle.

Why are beeswax candles so expensive?
Beeswax is a natural, limited resource produced by bees. Store-bought beeswax candles cost more, but making them yourself is affordable and allows you to customize scents and jars.

Article first published on July 24th, 2017.