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10 Things to Look For When Buying an Eco-Friendly Candle

white candle on black holder

10 Things to Look For When Buying an Eco-Friendly Candle

When it comes to setting the mood and protecting your health, eco-friendly candles offer the best of both worlds. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which ones are truly safe and sustainable? This guide is designed to help you make smarter, greener choices when buying candles that align with your values—and your vibe.

1. Choose Sustainable Wax (Soy for the Win)

Look for candles made from renewable, biodegradable waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax. Soy wax is a favorite for its clean burn and minimal soot.
JARE Candles uses a premium soy blend wax sourced from American farms. Try our Amalfi - Coast Citrus Basil Soy Wax Scented Candle for a fresh, eco-conscious experience.

Soy wax flakes, beeswax, and a coconut shell beside a lit candle in a glass jar on a wooden surface.

2. Avoid Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum and releases harmful toxins when burned. A healthier choice? Plant-based alternatives that won’t compromise your air quality.

Hand holding a white eco-friendly candle with a second candle in the background on a wood table.

3. Look for Natural Fragrance Ingredients

Fragrance transparency is key. Opt for candles scented with essential oils or high-quality fragrance oils that are phthalate-free and toxin-free.
Our candle Lili - Lush Gardenia, Tuberose Soy Wax Scented Candle is a natural floral favorite that doesn’t compromise on purity or throw.

A candle labeled with gardenia and tuberose held in hand, emphasizing natural floral ingredients.

4. Check the Wick

Eco-friendly candles use cotton, wood, or paper-based wicks. Avoid metal-core wicks, which may contain lead.
At JARE, every candle features lead-free cotton wicks for a clean, even burn.

Three types of candle wicks displayed: cotton, wood, and a metal-core wick marked as unsafe.

5. Packaging Matters

Minimal, recyclable packaging shows the brand cares about the planet. Look for brands that avoid plastic and overpackaging.
Our candles are packed in recyclable boxes that are easy on the eyes and the Earth.

Hands using wick trimmers to cut a candle wick to the proper length for a clean burn.

6. Dye-Free Is a Plus

Brightly colored candles may contain synthetic dyes that can irritate sensitive individuals. Choose candles in their natural wax color or made with plant-based tints.

Hand holding a dye-free, cream-colored candle with eucalyptus in the background.

7. Pay Attention to Burn Time

Longer burn times often signal a higher-quality wax and well-crafted formula. This means fewer candles bought over time—and less waste.
Our 8.7-ounce jars burn up to +40 hours, so you enjoy more with every light.

Hand holding a plain candle with various natural and colored additives displayed on the table.

8. Reusable Containers Are a Bonus

Eco-luxury is about form and function. When the candle is done, your jar should live on—as a planter, pen holder, or keepsake dish.
JARE Candle jars are made to be repurposed, with a sleek, minimalist look that complements any space.

Glass jar held by hand next to a lit candle and succulent plant, showing container reuse.

9. Support Black-Owned, Eco-Focused Brands

Who you support matters. Look for companies with a mission you believe in.
JARE Candles is co-founded by April Ryan, a long-time White House Correspondent, and James Ewing, a retired Naval officer. Our clean-burning soy candles are an ode to April’s late mother, and a tribute to sustainable living, heritage, and healing.

Hand holding a 'Lemon Head' candle from JARE Candles, highlighting eco-conscious branding.

10. Read the Label Like a Pro

If a candle brand doesn't disclose ingredients or burn info, it might not be worth your trust. Look for clear info on wax type, wick material, fragrance ingredients, and burn time.
Every JARE candle is labeled with transparency, integrity, and care.

Smiling woman in a cozy sweater holding a lit Lemon Head candle in both hands.

Ready to make the switch?

Browse our collection of clean-burning, eco-luxury candles at jarecandles.com.

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