Are Wax Melts Toxic? (What You Should Know)

If you can’t resist the cozy ambiance and sweet scents that wax melts bring into your home, you may have wondered at some point, “Are they safe to use?” It’s a valid question because let’s face it: we all want our living spaces to smell incredible without compromising our health.

So in this article, we’ll dig deep into the facts and myths surrounding wax melts‘ toxicity levels. By the end, you’ll be armed with enough knowledge to make an informed decision on whether or not to continue using them.

Wax melts may be toxic; this is dependent on the type of base it has and what it is made of. Soy wax melts, and bees wax melts are completely non-toxic and safe for you and the environment. However, paraffin wax can be toxic if inhaled, so using it in well-ventilated areas or sticking to other types of wax melts is essential.

NEW: Is Thermal Paste Toxic? (ANSWERED)

What Are Wax Melts?

Wax melts are a popular way to enjoy scented candles without flame. Small, wax-based pieces are melted in a special wax melt warmer to release their fragrance. They usually contain fragrance oils and other ingredients like colorants, binders, and stabilizers.

While the exact composition of wax melts varies depending on the brand, most contain a blend of natural and synthetic ingredients. Many people enjoy using wax melts because they are safe, easy to use, and provide a consistent scent throw.

While most wax melts are made from paraffin wax, there are also other types of wax melts that people are familiar with. They are below;

Paraffin wax melts

Paraffin wax is a petroleum-based product that is easy to find and relatively inexpensive. It also has a high melting point, which means it can be used in various ways. Most people find that paraffin wax melts work best regarding fragrance throw and burn time. 

Soy wax melt

Soy wax is made from soybeans and is a renewable resource. It also has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, so it’s perfect for use in candles and other products that require a low melting point. Soy wax melts are also non-toxic and safe for children and pets. 

Beeswax melts

Beeswax is made by bees and is 100% natural. It has a higher melting point than soy wax but is still lower than paraffin wax. Beeswax melts are non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets.

Although Paraffin is the most popular, soy and beeswax melts are beginning to gain ground among people as a lot more people become more aware of the environmental impact of petroleum-based products.

Whether you choose paraffin, soy, or beeswax melts, purchase them from a reputable source. Some companies add harmful chemicals to their wax products to increase fragrance throw or extend the burn time.

These chemicals can be toxic if inhaled, so it’s important to ensure you get quality products from a trusted source.

Pros and Cons of Wax Melts

There are a few different types of wax melts, each with its own pros and cons. Here is a look at some of the most popular types of wax melts and their potential benefits and drawbacks:

Soy Wax Melts

These wax melts are made from soybeans and are a renewable, eco-friendly option. They also tend to be less expensive than other types of wax melts. However, they may not last as long as other options.

Paraffin Wax Melts

Paraffin wax is a petroleum-based product that is less environmentally friendly than soy wax. However, it is very affordable and lasts a long time. Some people also find that paraffin wax has a stronger scent than soy wax.

Beeswax Melts

Beeswax is another renewable option that is also eco-friendly. It has a subtle honey scent and can last up to twice as long as soy wax melts. However, beeswax can be more expensive than some of the other options.

Are Wax Melts Toxic? 

The main concern with wax melts is the potential for exposure to harmful chemicals. Some of the chemicals commonly found in wax melt, such as phthalates and parabens, have been linked to health problems like endocrine disruption and cancer.

In addition, many waxes melt contain synthetic fragrances, which can trigger allergies or respiratory problems in some people.

Since paraffin is obtained from petroleum i.e., coal, etc, some cancer-causing agents, such as benzene, have been identified. The research discovered that paraffin wax melts bring out toxic toluene and benzene when it is melting. However, this does not occur with soy and beeswax melt. 

What are the Risks of Using Wax Melts?

There are a few risks to be aware of when using wax melts. 

1. First, people who have pets may need to keep their wax melts in a distant place where their pets will not be able to reach them. Pets can easily burn themselves on hot wax. 
2. Second, be careful not to spill melted wax on yourself or anyone else. It can cause severe burns. 
3. Finally, don’t leave melting wax unattended. It could quickly spread and cause damage or injuries if it caught fire.
4. If you are using Paraffin wax melts, it can become toxic if not used in a well-ventilated environment. 

How to Safely Use Wax Melts

When it comes to wax melts, there are a few safety concerns that you should be aware of. Here are some tips on how to safely use wax melts:

• Always use an approved wax melt warmer. This will help to prevent any accidents or mishaps. 
• Do not leave wax melts unattended. Make sure to keep an eye on them at all times. 
• Keep wax melts away from children and pets. They can be a choking hazard if ingested. Discard used wax melts properly. Do not just leave them lying around as they can be a fire hazard.

Alternatives to Wax Melts

There are a few alternatives to wax melts that can be used in place of traditional wax melts. These include:

1. Oil Diffusers

Diffusing essential oils into the air is a great way to enjoy their benefits without worrying about wax melts’ safety. Many different types of diffusers are available on the market, so you can find one that suits your needs and budget.  

2. Soy Candles

Soy candles are made from natural, renewable soybeans and don’t contain any of the harmful chemicals found in traditional paraffin candles. They burn cleanly and evenly, making them a great alternative to wax melts. 

3. Beeswax Candles

Like soy candles, beeswax candles are also made from a natural, renewable resource. They burn cleaner than traditional paraffin candles and don’t release any harmful chemicals into the air.

Is Scented Wax Melts Good For You?

There are a lot of benefits to using wax melts instead of traditional candles. For one, they don’t produce any soot or smoke, so they’re much better for your respiratory system.

They’re also highly scented, so you can enjoy your favorite fragrance without worrying about the potentially harmful effects of synthetic fragrance chemicals.

However, there is some debate about whether or not scented wax melts are good for you. While the scent of certain essential oils can benefit your health, the synthetic fragrances used in most wax melts can irritate the lungs and may even contain dangerous chemicals.

If you’re concerned about the potential health risks of using wax melts, stick with unscented varieties or those made with natural essential oils.

Are Wax Melts Safer Than Candles?

There are a few factors to consider when considering wax melts’ safety. The following are some differences between both; 

1. Candles generally have a higher concentration of fragrance than wax melts. If you’re sensitive to fragrance, wax melts may be a better option. 
2. Candles produce soot as they burn, which can harm your lungs if inhaled. Wax melts don’t produce soot, making them a safer option. 
3. Suppose you use wax melts with an unscented tealight or electric melt warmer. Otherwise, you risk the fragrance being too strong and potentially causing headaches or respiratory irritation.

Final Thoughts 

Wax melts are made of three main products, paraffin, bees, and soy. Paraffin wax, a petroleum product, seems to be the most known and used. However, it may not be so great for the human respiratory system, especially for those with underlying illnesses. 

We advise that you purchase other types of wax melts, as they are not as toxic or harmful as paraffin-made wax melts.

Regardless of the one you purchase, we advise that you use the wax melt with caution and follow safety measures. If you have any concerns about using wax melts, you can always ask your doctor or a certified aromatherapist.