Are Soy Wax Candles Safe for Pets?

There’s nothing better than lighting a cozy candle at the end of a long day—something about the soft glow and warm scent just feels right. But if you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably wondered: Are candles actually safe for my pets?

At Sustainable Soul Rochester, I’m all about making self-care feel good for everyone in the home, including our furry friends. So let’s talk about what makes a candle pet-safe, what to avoid, and how you can still enjoy your favorite cozy vibes without worrying about your pets’ health.

🐶 What Makes a Candle Safe for Pets?

Not all candles are created equal! A lot of big-name brands use paraffin wax, synthetic fragrances, and even lead wicks (yes, really), which can release toxins when burned. Since our pets are smaller and closer to the ground, they’re more likely to be affected by these airborne chemicals.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a pet-safe candle:
✔ 100% Soy Wax or Beeswax – Clean-burning and free from toxic petroleum-based ingredients.
✔ Cotton or Wooden Wicks – No metal or lead, which can release harmful fumes.
✔ Essential Oil-Based Fragrances – Instead of synthetic fragrances (but be mindful—some essential oils aren’t pet-safe!).
✔ No Artificial Dyes or Additives – Some dyes release toxins when burned, so simple is always better.

🚫 Scents to Avoid Around Pets

While soy wax itself is totally safe, some scents can be irritating or even toxic to pets—especially cats, who are super sensitive to certain compounds in essential oils.

Here are some scents to avoid burning around pets:
⚠ Tea Tree – Even in small amounts, this can be dangerous for pets.
⚠ Eucalyptus & Pine – Too strong for their little lungs.
⚠ Citrus Oils (Lemon, Orange, Lime, Grapefruit) – Can cause irritation, especially for cats.
⚠ Peppermint, Cinnamon & Clove – Spicy scents that can be overwhelming.

If you’ve ever noticed your pet sneezing, rubbing their face, or leaving the room when a candle is burning, that’s a sign the scent might not be agreeing with them.

🕯️ Pet-Friendly Candle Scents

The good news? There are still so many cozy, pet-safe scents to enjoy! Here are a few gentle options that are safe for dogs and cats:

🌿 Lavender – Calming and relaxing for both you and your pets.
🌾 Chamomile – Soft and soothing, great for winding down.
🪵 Frankincense – Warm and grounding, without overpowering.
🌲 Cedarwood – A light, woodsy scent that’s pet-friendly in small amounts.

💡 Tip: If you love candles but worry about your pets, try burning them in a well-ventilated space and watching for any changes in their behavior.

🌿 So… Are Soy Wax Candles Safe for Pets?

Yep! Soy wax candles are one of the safest options for homes with pets—as long as you avoid toxic essential oils and artificial additives. Choosing natural, non-toxic ingredients lets you enjoy the cozy candle glow without worrying about your four-legged family members.

That’s why all Sustainable Soul Rochester candles are made with 100% soy wax, many pet-safe scents, and no synthetic junk—just simple, good-for-you ingredients.

📚 Resources Used:

Back to blog

Leave a comment