59/100

Air

Scented Candles (Paraffin)

Moderate burden — Scented Candles (Paraffin) adds a moderate, reducible exposure.

Burning fragranced paraffin candles indoors.

The breakdown

Each driver rated 0 (none) to 10 (worst)

Chemical hazard
4
Everyday exposure
5
Persistence
2

Evidence strength: moderate · Detox Score = 100 − hazard×4.6 − exposure×3.4 − persistence×2.6, clamped 1–100.

What this means for you

A Detox Score of 59 places scented candles (paraffin) in the Moderate band. None of the three drivers is severe, which keeps the burden manageable. Combustion releases fine particulate and VOCs; synthetic fragrance adds more. Ventilate, or skip the flame.

Cleaner swap → Unscented beeswax or soy, or none at all.
See where your whole exposure load is highest — free Exposure Score →

Frequently asked questions

Is scented candles (paraffin) a toxic exposure?

Scented Candles (Paraffin) has a Detox Score of 59 out of 100 (Moderate burden), which means it adds a moderate, reducible exposure. Combustion releases fine particulate and VOCs; synthetic fragrance adds more. Ventilate, or skip the flame.

What is a safer alternative to scented candles (paraffin)?

A lower-exposure swap for scented candles (paraffin) is: Unscented beeswax or soy, or none at all. Combustion releases fine particulate and VOCs; synthetic fragrance adds more. Ventilate, or skip the flame.

Lower-exposure choices

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