What makes a dog friendly candle?
Is it safe to burn candles at home around our dogs? While the warm glow of a candle can create a cosy ambiance, it's essential to consider the potential risks, especially when it comes to the well-being of our four-legged companions and our own family.
Many candles found on the high street are made from paraffin wax, a material derived from petroleum refining, and they come with a hidden danger. When burned, paraffin wax candles release a cocktail of harmful chemicals, including benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, acetone, and lead. These substances can pose serious health risks to both humans and animals. Just imagine your furry friend, with their sensitive sense of smell, inhaling these toxins. It's a concerning thought, isn't it?
The Dark Side of Paraffin Wax: Most of the candles available on the high street are crafted from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refinement. While they may seem harmless, paraffin wax candles release a cocktail of harmful chemicals when burned. These chemicals include:
- Benzene: A known carcinogen found in car exhaust fumes.
- Toluene: Harmful to the nervous system.
- Formaldehyde: A potent irritant that can harm the respiratory system.
- Acetone: The same chemical found in nail polish remover.
- Lead: Often used in the wicks of older candles, which is toxic when inhaled or ingested.
Now, imagine your furry friend, with their keen sense of smell, inhaling these toxins. It's a concerning thought, isn't it?
Safer Alternatives that you can find on Paws Right There website: Rapeseed and Coconut Wax Candles Thankfully, there are alternative candle options that not only eliminate the dangers associated with paraffin wax but also promote a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Two of these alternatives are rapeseed and coconut wax candles.
-
Rapeseed Wax Candles:
- Rapeseed wax is derived from the oil of the rapeseed plant, which is not only abundant but also a renewable resource.
- These candles burn cleanly with minimal soot, reducing the risk of respiratory problems for both you and your pets.
- Rapeseed wax candles have a lower melting point, which means they burn more slowly, providing you with a longer-lasting aromatic experience.
- The mild, natural scent of rapeseed wax can be easily infused with essential oils, making them an excellent choice for aromatherapy.
-
Coconut Wax Candles:
- Coconut wax is another sustainable and environmentally friendly option. It is made from the meat of coconuts.
- These candles have a clean burn with minimal soot and virtually no toxins released into the air.
- Coconut wax has a natural sweet scent that complements various fragrances beautifully.
- The wax is also biodegradable, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious individuals.
The Importance of Natural Essential Oil Scents: In addition to choosing candles made from safe wax alternatives, it's equally crucial to consider the scents they emit. Opt for candles scented with natural essential oils rather than synthetic fragrance oils. Here's why:
-
Natural Aromas: Essential oils are extracted from plants, flowers, and fruits, offering a wide range of natural scents without harmful synthetic additives.
-
Chemical-Free: Synthetic fragrance oils often contain phthalates and other chemicals that can have hormone-disrupting properties and can lead to digestive upset in pets and harm human health.
-
Aromatherapy Benefits: Many essential oils not only smell pleasant but also provide aromatherapeutic benefits for both you and your pets. Lavender, for example, can have a calming effect on anxious pets.
Conclusion: The next time you're in the market for candles, take a moment to consider the health and safety of your beloved pets and your family. Traditional paraffin wax candles may create a cosy atmosphere, but their hidden dangers shouldn't be ignored.
By choosing alternatives like rapeseed and coconut wax candles and opting for scents derived from natural essential oils, you not only enhance the well-being of your furry companions but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable planet. Illuminate your home with these safer options, and let your candles shine without dimming the safety of your beloved pets and loved ones.
If you're conscious what you are burning at home around your family and pets check out the rapeseed & coconut wax collection at www.PawsRightThere.co.uk