Phthalates in fragrance oils: Why we avoid them

Have you ever considered what else is being released into the air alongside those notes of vanilla or lavender?

While we often check the ingredients on our food and skincare, we rarely think about what we are breathing in within our own homes.

The truth is, many standard home fragrance products contain a group of chemicals known as Phthalates.

These ingredients are incredibly common in the candle industry, yet they are rarely listed on the packaging.

If you have ever found that a strong candle gives you a headache, or if you are simply trying to reduce the toxins in your household, understanding these hidden chemicals is the first step.

Today, we want to share why we made the conscious decision to create a home fragrance range that is 100% phthalate-free, and why your indoor air quality will thank you for it.

What exactly are phthalates doing in your candle?

Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are a family of industrial chemicals used to soften PVC plastic and carry fragrances.

In the world of home scents, specifically candles, reed diffusers, and wax melts, they serve a functional purpose.

Manufacturers often use Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) as a solvent and fixative. Here is what they do:

• Scent Throw: They help the fragrance oil bind to the wax, ensuring the scent is distributed evenly.

• Longevity: They prevent the fragrance from evaporating too quickly, meaning the candle smells stronger for longer.

• Cost: They are a cheap way to make a fragrance feel more potent.

On paper, this sounds useful. However, just because an ingredient makes a product perform well, it doesn't mean it belongs in the air you, your children, and your pets breathe every day.

Why we avoid them: the hidden cost of "strong" scents

We believe that a beautiful home shouldn't come at the cost of your health.

The decision to remove fragrances containing phthalates from our entire range of candles and wax melts wasn't difficult once we looked at the science.

Here is why we and a growing community of conscious consumers are saying no to these chemicals:

1. Indoor air quality and respiratory health

When you burn a candle containing phthalates, those chemicals are released into the air as a gas.

Because modern homes are well-insulated to keep heat in, they also keep pollutants in. 

Breathing in high concentrations of synthetic fixatives can irritate the lungs. This is a common trigger for asthma sufferers and those with sensitivities.

2. The dreaded "candle headache"

Have you ever walked into a room with a burning candle and felt a dull ache behind your eyes? Or perhaps felt a bit nauseous?

This is often the body’s reaction to the toxicity of phthalates in candles. Clean, phthalate-free scents tend to be softer and don't assault the senses, allowing you to enjoy the ambience without reaching for the painkillers.

3. Hormone disruption concerns

Just like in skincare, phthalates in home fragrances are classified as endocrine disruptors.

Even though you aren't applying the candle to your skin, inhalation is a direct route into the body.

Studies suggest these chemicals can interfere with hormone production and reproductive health.

4. Safety for pets and little ones

Our furry friends and children have smaller lungs and faster metabolisms, making them more susceptible to airborne toxins.

Since they often spend more time playing on the floor (where heavy vapours can settle), keeping the air clean is paramount.

Why we decided to go with phthalate-free only options

When we started developing our home fragrances, we faced a choice.

We could use the cheaper, standard oils that are loaded with fixatives, or we could take the harder path to find cleaner alternatives. We chose the latter.

Here is why our phthalate-free pledge matters to us:

• A cleaner burn: You might notice that our candles produce less black soot. While wicking plays a role, the purity of the fragrance oil is also key. Without heavy chemical binders, the wax burns more cleanly.

• Authentic aromas: Phthalate-free fragrance options might smell slightly different to what you are used to, in a good way! Instead of a sharp, artificial hit of smell, you get a complex, layered aroma that fills the room gently rather than overpowering it.

• Peace of mind: We want you to feel safe lighting our candles at the dinner table, in the bath, or in the nursery. Knowing our products are free from reproductive toxins aligns with our values of care and transparency.

Suggestion: Read our post on Essential oils vs. fragrance oils.

How to spot a clean home fragrance

Since manufacturers aren't always required to list every ingredient on a candle label, it can be tricky to know what you are buying.

• Look for the label: Brands that are phthalate-free will usually shout about it on their packaging or website.

• Check the wax: While not a rule, brands that care enough to use vegetable waxes (like soy, coconut, or rapeseed) instead of paraffin are more likely to care about clean fragrance oils too.

• Trust your nose: If a candle smells like harsh chemicals or gives you an instant headache, trust your body’s signal.

Creating a sanctuary at home is about more than just decor, it’s about creating a safe, healthy environment where you can truly switch off.

By understanding the impact of Phthalates in fragrance oils and choosing to eliminate them from your home, you are making a small change with a big impact on your wellbeing.

We are proud to offer a range that smells incredible without the hidden nasties. So, go ahead, light the wick, curl up with a book, and breathe easy.

Ready to transform your home atmosphere? Explore our range of phthalate-free candles and wax melts today.