Candles contribute to indoor air problems - Lifelines

Vibrant Life, Jan-Feb, 2002

Could that great smelling scented candle be polluting your home?

Burning multiple candles can release high levels of particulate pollution into your home or office's air. People with respiratory problems could find their conditions aggravated.

Candle enthusiasts who burn nine candles in a room can end up with airborne particulate levels higher than the legal limit for outdoor air. Also, a small number of candles still have wicks with lead cores. Burning these candles releases toxic metal into the air. For safe candle burning:

* Use mostly unscented candles. Scented ones can produce more soot.

* Limit the number of candles you burn at any one time.

* Make sure your room is well ventilated

* Trim wicks to about a quarter inch to reduce smoldering.

* Never leave candles burning unattended.

(Environmental Protection Agency)