Candles and lead!!!

**homesteadmamma** · 11-06-2003, 10:31 PM

I posted this at www.homesteadgarden.com/forums/ but thought it was worth posting here.

Here is an article I found in the Alive magazine, Nov. 2003.

Planning buying candles this holiday? Be aware that lead-wiced candles can be dangerous and Health Canada says it's best to avoid them.

Lead is a toxic, carcinogenic hazard implicated in reproductive problems. It can be inhalded during burning a lead-wicked candles, which is why those cheap, dollar-store candles should be crossed off your gift list.

It goes on to say that when purchasing candles, ask for lead free wicks. Beeswax candles, often sold in health food stores, are likely to be lead free and clean burning.

If you want to check the candles in your possession, check the wick for a metallic core by rubbing it on white paper. A resulting grey colour probably indicates lead. Throw them out!!

**couponchic** · 11-07-2003, 08:33 AM

Thanks for posting this! I have tons of candles so I am going to have to check this out before I burn anymore. I never imagined that a wick would be made with lead!!!

**QuilterMom** · 11-03-2004, 10:50 PM

I believe Home Interior and Gold Canyon candles are lead free. I'm sure many of the other well known name companies are as well. It's the cheapie candles that worry me!

**Suezy** · 11-04-2004, 02:03 AM

Hi all --it's been illegal for many years to sell lead wicks in the United States. Not sure exactly when but close to 10 years --however imported candles from places like China did not have such a law until 2003. So if you have any candles that were imported (i.e., made in china ---those are the ones I would check)
HTH
Sher