Are Essential Oils Flammable? A Comprehensive Guide

Essential oils are highly flammable and, in some countries, they are even considered a fire hazard and are not allowed on airplanes. However, there are many different essential oils, and they all have their own different properties and levels of flammability. Almost all essential oils are flammable, with flashpoints ranging from 100 to 215 degrees Fahrenheit (37 to 102 Celsius). The average flash point is around 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which OSHA classifies as a Class 3 flammable liquid.

Some essential oils are more flammable than others, such as tea tree oil and frankincense oil, and extra precautions should be taken when working with them. Even though essential oils are highly flammable substances, mixing them with candle wax does not cause them to burn. To indicate its high flammability, some countries classify essential oil as a fire hazard and do not allow it on an airplane. Did you know that using essential oils on clothing can be a fire hazard? They smell great, but essential oils are flammable and should be used with caution.

Even if the oil solidifies, it will return to a liquid state when you take it out of the refrigerator. However, if a fire has been completely extinguished and you want to eliminate the smell of burnt wood, you can, in theory, add some essential oil as a deodorant, but make sure that it is completely extinguished. Aside from the flash point, another mistake people make is underestimating how flammable essential oils are. It's never safe to run something flammable through the dryer, so let's see why you shouldn't put essential oils in the dryer.

According to Robert Tisserand, an essential oil safety authority who has researched the topic of essential oil safety for more than 10 years, no: essential oils vaporized in air are not a fire hazard. Clothes with oils should be washed at higher temperatures because, unless the water is at least this hot, the oils may not combine effectively with laundry detergent. So instead of storing it on shelves, choose cabinets or inside drawers, store your essential oil in a cool and dry place with a regulated temperature. Essential oils are more popular than ever, but that doesn't mean they're safe for all applications.

Below are some safety tips to help minimize potential fire hazards associated with using essential oils. Because oils have a relatively low flash point, they are likely to catch fire near an open flame or produce a high flame if the heat is too much. Essential oils alone are highly flammable, but when mixed with wax and other ingredients, they are not hazardous or flammable.