Are dollar store candles safe?

They're as safe as any other candle that is not left attended. The difference is the wax used. Dollar store candles use a cheaper wax so it doesn't burn as clean or even. You can't beat the price of a dollar store candle. But in any case, never leave lit candles unattended, no matter how much you pay for them.

I purchase and use them on occasion with no problem.

Agree with previous respondents.

As a candle maker with over two decades of experience I can tell you that Dollar Store candles are as safe as any other commercially made candle. If you're talking about the possible emissions of toxins into the air while a candle burns, it's a good idea to stay away from candles made of paraffin (and don't ever burn a candle made out of crayons). Most soy candles, especially the really cheap ones, are not "pure soy" (even if the label says so) as the regulations for these candles allow up to 50% paraffin which is used to make the wax harder so it burns longer. Also pay attention to the wick. Some countries over seas still put a wire in the wick to make them stand up straighter. Sometimes these wires are made of copper, lead or zinc and may emit toxins into the air while burning. Some cheap fragrances and even some essential oils can be harmful when burning as well.

Regular candle safety dictates that a candle should be placed on a flat, level surface far away from flammable objects like curtains or bed clothes, well out of the way of drafts, well out of the reach of pets and children, and should never be burned for more than three or four hours at a time.

It's a good idea to snuff the candle when putting it out instead of blowing it out so the smoke doesn't just waft into the air. For container candles I use a metal lid from a jelly or spaghetti sauce jar that is slightly larger than the candle container itself. This will work for votive candles as well since votives should never be burned without a votive holder. A large glass jar that is at least one inch larger than the candle can be used to snuff free standing pillar candles.

You're safest candles as far as wax goes are going to be made from Beeswax, soy, or palm waxes, but those are going to run into some pricing issues. Beeswax is the cleanest burning wax on the market but it will be your most pricey. There is some controversy now about soy, and some companies (and especially home candle makers) are no longer using palm wax due to environmental issues.

If you're really concerned with the toxicity of a candle, it may be a good idea to make your own. Most candle supply companies provide safety and chemical composition documentation of everything from wax to wicks to fragrances so you can be SURE of what's going in them. Although Soy wax and palm wax can be purchased as low as $1.95 per pound, beeswax is still going to be at least four times more expensive per pound. However! There is a cool alternative to beeswax blocks or pellets that is easy to work with and comes in several colors; beeswax sheets! These are especially fun because you can just cut them to size, roll them around a wick and POOF! Candle! The scraps can even be cut into shapes or flowers or whatever you like to decorate a rolled candle and make them wonderfully unique!

A good source for candle making supplies is Candlewic.com

I hope this helps =) Please let me know if you need any help!

You're probably thinking of the problems with candles containing lead in the wicks. These have been banned since 2003, but just to be safe you could avoid buying candles with a thin piece of metal running up through the wick.

Thanks

Hello, hope this helps you out. Sure they are just as safe as any other candles, and should not be left unattended.