Scented candles get plenty of scrutiny from Australian consumers, and some of it is fair: cheap paraffin candles can release soot and volatile organic compounds when burned in a poorly ventilated room. The good news is that this is mostly a wax-and-wick problem, not a scented-candle problem. Look for soy, coconut, or beeswax rather than paraffin, and a cotton or wood wick rather than a metal-cored one. Australia has adopted the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) for chemical classification and labelling, so reputable candle makers will list fragrance allergens clearly rather than relying on a vague "non-toxic" sticker. Ventilation matters too — running the aircon or a ceiling fan while a candle burns helps clear soot particles faster than a still, closed-up room. The picks below all use natural waxes, cotton wicks, and clearly labelled allergens.