If your trying to lower your electric bill or just enjoy the natural lighting of candles there are a few things to consider. There are some hazards that come with using candles for light and heat. Burning candles are the leading cause of residential fires. Soot is put out by some candles and can cause physical harm when inhaled. In the past candlewicks contained a lead core, which is harmful to humans. Not to worry though! With a little common sense and modern alternatives you can light those candles with no worries.
Candles can be made from many products such as beeswax, paraffin, stearin, gel, tallow, and various plant waxes. If your environmentally conscious stay away from candles made from petroleum based products. Paraffin and stearin are both petroleum products as well as certain gels. Vegans and vegetarians have to pay close attention to some candle ingredients. Tallow is made from animal fat while beeswax comes from the cultivation of honey and honey byproducts. Plant based candles might be something for you to take into consideration. No animals are harmed and no petroleum is utilized in soy, carnauba, bayberry or many palm waxes. Soy candles are becoming very popular and are affordable. I use soy candles and love them!
Containers for candles come in many forms and lots of decorative designs. Glass containers can shattered due to stress factures caused from the prolonged heat of the candles. Any container used for the candle can be decorated in tons of wonderful ways but stay cautious of any flammable containers i.e. wood and any paper based materials. Paints used in the decorating of the containers should be considered as well. Some paints contain lead, flammable materials or simply melt with the heat of the candle.
For a few candle alternatives here are a few websites you can visit for more information.
http://www.findsoycandles.com/
http://www.candles-delight.com/why-vegetable-wax.html
http://www.caterpillarscandles.com/soy-candle-facts.htm
Do you feel enlightened? Please let me know any alternatives that you use!
