How to Make Non Toxic Candles

If you have ever wondered how to make non toxic candles that are safe, clean, and still smell amazing, you are in the right place.

I used to love lighting up candles after a long day, until I realized many store-bought ones were filled with paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances. 

These can release chemicals into the air that definitely don’t belong in your cozy space.

After a few too many headaches and sneezing fits, I started digging deeper. And what I found changed the way I make and use candles forever.

So I remember, about three years ago, I decided to learn how to make non toxic candles using only natural and non-toxic ingredients that are safer for both our health and the environment. 

I just wanted clean-burning, beautifully scented candles that felt good, helped me relax, and were good for me, too.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make non toxic candles step by step, with easy ingredients, helpful tips, and the little tricks I have learn from years of candle-making. Ready to start? Let’s do it!

What I Learned About Candles I Used to Buy

Before I jump into the how-to, let’s talk about why I even started making my own candles in the first place.

Most of the cheap candles you find in stores are made from paraffin wax. If you don’t know what paraffin wax is, let me tell you it is a cheap by-product of petroleum (yep, the same stuff used for gasoline). 

When paraffin is burned, it releases chemicals like benzene and toluene, which are not good for your health. The amounts are typically low, but poor ventilation or burning candles for long periods can increase exposure.

And on the other hand, the fragrances? Don’t even get me started. Many store-bought candles contain synthetic fragrances that can trigger headaches, asthma, and other sensitivities.

When I was new to candle making, I used to constantly check, make, and test candles because it was part of my job, and honestly, I loved it.

One day, I wanted to test the scent throw of a paraffin wax candle. To get a better sense of the fragrance, I lit the candle and closed all the doors and windows, thinking it would help me understand the scent better.

But after a while, I started getting a headache, my pulse felt weird, and I began sneezing nonstop.  At first, I had no idea what was going on.

Then a friend of mine mentioned that paraffin wax could be the reason behind it.

Since that day, I have made it a point to always use paraffin wax in open or well-ventilated areas. It makes a difference.

That is when I realized that if I am going to make something good, it has to be better for our health, too.

So I decided to create my non-toxic candles, made with natural ingredients that are safer and healthier to use.

No more headaches or sneezing—just clean, comforting scents the way they are meant to be.

What Exactly Is a Non-Toxic Candle?

So if you are wondering how to make non toxic candles that are safe for your family and home, this checklist is for you. 

A non-toxic candle is made without harmful ingredients. That means no petroleum-based waxes(example: paraffin wax), no synthetic fragrances (scents created using chemicals), no lead-core wicks, and no chemical dyes.

Instead, non-toxic candles are made from natural waxes like soy, beeswax, or coconut wax. They use clean-burning wicks made from cotton or wood and are scented with natural ingredients like essential oils. I will share my personal non toxic candle checklist 

Non-Toxic Candle Checklist

• Wax Type 🕯️
  •  100% Soy Wax
  •  Beeswax
  •  Coconut Wax
  •  Natural Wax Blends (with clearly listed ingredients)
• Fragrance
  •  Essential Oils
  •  Phthalate-Free Fragrance Oils
  •  No Synthetic Fragrances or undisclosed “fragrance” labels
• Wick
  •  Cotton Wicks (unbleached)
  •  Wood Wicks (natural, untreated)
  •  No metal-core or lead wicks
• Additives 🧪
  •  No artificial dyes or colors
  •  No UV stabilizers or other unnecessary chemicals
• Packaging 🎁
  •  Recyclable or reusable containers
  •  No plastic parts near the flame

These candles are:

• Safer for your health
• Kind to the environment
• best for homes with kids, pets, or anyone with sensitivities

And trust me—it works!

The scent is not overpowering; it is gentle, natural, and has a calming vibe.

This guide is basically about how to make non toxic candles at home, without any toxic junk. 

And trust me, it is an easy and very fun process in this guide. I will also give tips and tricks to make it perfect in one shot. 

🕯️ Ingredients for Toxin-Free Homemade Candles

When I was learning the basics of how to make non toxic candles, I realized it only takes a few simple ingredients. 

• Natural wax–Choose from soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax
• Cotton wicks–Make sure they have a metal wick sustainer tab attached
• Essential oils–Go wild with scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus
• Jars or containers–Reuse old glass jars or use heat-safe candle containers

🛠️ Supplies 

• Double boiler 
• Stirring stick 
• Thermometer (optional) – Helps get the right temperature for scent bonding
• Wick holders or chopsticks
  

How to Make Non Toxic Candles at Home (Step-by-Step)

Follow this eco-friendly candle tutorial to make your own safe, clean-burning beauties.

Step 1: Melt the Wax

Ok, let’s start the process. Take a double boiler and fill a pot with 2 inches of water and place a heatproof bowl on top. Pour your wax into the bowl and heat on medium. Stir occasionally.

You have to heat the wax to about 170–185°F (75–85°C). That is the perfect temperature for melting and scent mixing. 

This usually takes 10–15 minutes, depending on how much wax you use.

Step 2: Prep Your Containers 

While your wax is melting, get your containers ready.

Place your wick, which should come with the sustainer tab attached, in the center of each container. 

This little metal piece keeps the wick standing straight. 

Use a glue dot or a small dab of melted wax to anchor the tab firmly in place.

Then place a pencil or wick holder across the top of the jar to keep the wick straight while the wax hardens.

Step 3: Add Essential Oils

Once your wax has fully melted, let it cool slightly to around 160°F. This is the perfect temperature for adding natural essential oils.

Add 15–20 drops of your favorite essential oil per 1 cup of wax. You can mix and match scents, but make sure you use oils that are safe for candles.

Stir gently for a minute to help the oils blend in well. This is how you make a beautiful, natural scent without any synthetic fragrances.

Step 4: Pour the Wax

Once your oils are mixed in, it is time to pour the wax into your containers.

Slowly pour the wax into your jar, leaving about half an inch at the top. Don’t pour too fast; it can cause bubbles or uneven surfaces, so take your time.

And most importantly, keep an eye on your wick to make sure it stays centered and straight as you pour. This will help it burn evenly later.

Step 5: Let Them Cool

Now that your candles are filled then let them cool undisturbed. Place the jar in a cool, dry place.

It will cool in about 3–4 hours for small jars, or 6–8 hours for larger ones. The wax needs this time to set fully.

Don’t touch or move the candles while they cool to avoid cracks or lumps.

Step 6: Trim the Wick

Once the wax is solid, it is time to trim your wick.

Use scissors to trim the wick down to about ¼ inch above the surface of the wax.

This helps ensure that the flame burns low and clean, without producing too much smoke or soot.

Step 7: Light and Enjoy!

You did it! Now it is time to enjoy your homemade candles.

We just made our own natural candles. They are easy to make, eco-friendly, and good for our health.

Loved this candle recipe?

I have also shared a step-by-step guide on how to make an Easy Vanilla Scent Candle Recipe. You will love it!

Or if you are curious about making your own candle wicks, I have got a simple tutorial for that too. Check them out! How to Make Candle Wicks at Home.

Tips for Making it Perfect

Making candles from scratch is my favorite job and hobby. 

The more I practiced, the more I learned little tricks that make non-toxic candle making easier and more fun.

Tip no.1. Don’t be shy with your essential oils! Natural waxes like soy or beeswax don’t hold scent as strongly, so you’ll need to use more than you might expect.
Use about 15–20 drops of essential oil per 1 cup of wax to get a noticeable, long-lasting fragrance.

• Tip no.2. Always trim your wick to about ¼ inch before lighting your candle. A well-trimmed wick means a longer-lasting, safer, and better-smelling candle.
• Tip no.3. Don’t rush cooling: Patience = smoother candles.
  
• Tip no.4. Test small batches first: Try new scent combos in tiny jars.
• Tip no.5. Store unused candles properly: Keep them in a cool, dark place to preserve scent.

Safer Candle Options for Home Use

When shopping for candles (or ingredients for DIYs), look for:

• 100% soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax
• Essential oil-based scents
• Phthalate-free labels
• Cotton or wood wicks

Avoid terms like “fragrance” or “parfum,” they are usually code for synthetic chemicals.

Learning how to make non toxic candles gave me the control to avoid harmful ingredients and create a healthier environment for my family. 

🕯️ Wax Comparison: Which One is Right for You?

If you are not sure which natural wax to choose? I made a quick cheat sheet to help you decide based on what matters most to you: burn time, scent, budget, and more.

My take?
If you want a clean burn on a budget, go for soy wax.

If you love a warm, golden glow and a light, natural scent, beeswax is a great choice.

For luxury vibes and great scent throw, coconut wax is the best option (especially in blends!).

If you want to know more about beeswax candles, I have shared their benefits—make sure to check it out later!

🌿 Candle Storage & Shelf Life

Once you have made your beautiful, non-toxic candles, you want to make sure they stay fresh and fragrant until you’re ready to light them.

• Keep them cool and dark:
  Store your candles in a cupboard, drawer, or any place away from sunlight and heat. Too much warmth can soften or warp the wax, and sunlight will fade scents over time.
• Use lids or covers:
  If your jars have lids, use them! It keeps dust out and helps the scent last longer.

🕰️ Shelf Life Tip:

• Soy and coconut candles are best used within 6–12 months for the best smell.
• Beeswax candles can last for years because they stay fresh naturally.

If your candle looks a little frosty (something like tiny white crystals on the surface), don’t worry. 

That is called “frosting,” and it is totally normal for natural waxes like soy. 

It won’t affect the candle; in fact, it is a sign your candle is made with good quality ingredients.

Ready to Try It?

If you have ever wanted to make candles but felt intimidated, trust me, you can do this. You don’t need fancy equipment or a huge budget.

This How to make non toxic candles guide is perfect for beginners. Start simple, make a few jars, and have fun with the process.

Now that you know how to make non toxic candles, you are all set to create a cozy, chemical-free vibe in your space. It’s simple, fun, and worth it.

Enjoyed this candle-making guide?

You might also love my other candle tutorials, like how to make wooden wick candles, how to make candle wicks, and more cozy DIYs to try at home. Go check them out!

FYQ

1. How to make non toxic candles with soy wax at home?

You can make non toxic candles at home by melting soy wax, adding a natural wick, and using essential oils for fragrance. Soy wax is a safe and clean-burning option. Just pour the melted wax into a glass jar with the wick in place, let it cool, and you are done!

2. Are essential oils better than fragrance oils for candles?

Yes, essential oils are natural and safer to breathe in. Fragrance oils may contain synthetic chemicals that can irritate the lungs or trigger allergies.

3. Are homemade candles safe to burn?

Yes, homemade candles are safe if you use the right ingredients—natural wax, cotton or wood wicks, and essential oils. Stay away from synthetic fragrances, dyes, and paraffin to avoid toxins.

4. How to make non toxic candles with beeswax and natural ingredients?

Melt pure beeswax, add a cotton or wood wick, and use essential oils for scent. Beeswax burns clean, has a natural honey smell, and is one of the best non toxic options.

5. How to make non toxic candles that burn clean and last longer?

Use quality soy or beeswax, a good wick (like cotton or wood), and avoid synthetic additives. Natural candles burn slower and cleaner when made right, so they last longer and are healthier to use.