Understanding Fragrance Safety Around Babies
When it comes to babies, their tiny bodies and developing respiratory systems make them much more sensitive to airborne chemicals than adults. Traditional scented candles and synthetic room sprays often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), artificial fragrances, and other irritants that may trigger allergies, respiratory discomfort, or skin sensitivities in infants. Because babies inhale more air per pound of body weight than adults, even small amounts of pollutants can have a stronger impact. That’s why it’s essential to evaluate what you’re using to fragrance your home, especially in nurseries or shared family spaces.
Choosing Baby-Safe Alternatives
Not all candles or fragrance products are harmful — it depends on the ingredients. At Karessa Candles, we prioritize clean burning by using soy wax candles made with non-toxic fragrance oils and cotton wicks. These eco-friendly candles are free from paraffin, phthalates, and dyes, reducing the risk of irritation and indoor air pollution. For parents looking to enjoy a lightly fragranced environment while ensuring safety, choosing baby-safe candles crafted with natural oils is a mindful solution. Avoid using aerosol sprays near babies altogether — opt instead for gentle essential oil diffusers or naturally scented products in well-ventilated rooms.
Burn Clean and Safely
If you do choose to use candles around your baby, it's vital to follow proper burning practices. Always burn in open, well-ventilated spaces, and never leave a candle lit in a baby’s room or any enclosed area where they’re sleeping or crawling. Our luxury candle jars are designed to contain melted wax safely, and when made from natural waxes, they produce significantly less soot or harmful emissions. Practicing candle safety, such as trimming the wick and limiting burn time, will make a big difference in reducing indoor pollutants.
Final Thought on Home Fragrance and Infants
As lovely as a fragrant home may be, your baby’s health comes first. Always choose gentle, plant-based options like our aromatherapy products and avoid synthetic room sprays or candles with unknown ingredients. When in doubt, ventilate your space well, and keep all fragranced products out of reach and out of baby's immediate breathing zone. With care and conscious choices, you can still enjoy the warmth and ambiance of beautifully scented spaces without compromising your baby’s wellbeing.
