Comparing Candle Wax Types and Their Benefits

When it comes to choosing the perfect candle, the type of wax used plays a crucial role in the candle's performance, scent throw, and burn time. Each wax type has unique characteristics that affect how the candle burns and smells. Whether you are a candle maker or a candle lover, understanding the differences between waxes can help you make better choices. We hand-pour each 8.5 oz coconut-apricot wax candle in small batches, finishing it by candlelight and labeling it by hand. This slow-craft approach ensures every candle burns cleanly for 45+ hours, with a steady melt pool that throws fragrance evenly from first spark to last flicker. Our fragrances don’t just smell nice; they summon characters, settings, and emotions, so lighting one feels like opening a book.

Exploring Popular Candle Wax Options

There are several popular candle wax options available today, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. We use a blend of Coconut, Apricot, and Soy with a minimum amount of food grade paraffin to hold its body. This blend makes up for the weaknesses of the other wax. Here’s a breakdown of the most common waxes used in candle making:

Soy Wax

Soy wax is a natural wax made from soybean oil. It is popular for its clean burn and ability to hold fragrance well. Soy wax candles tend to burn longer than paraffin candles and produce less soot. They are also biodegradable and renewable, making them an eco-friendly choice.

• Burns cleaner with less soot

• Holds fragrance well

• Harder to work with

• Top is not left smooth after first burn

• Renewable and biodegradable

• Deforestation

• Slightly softer, so it requires a container and melts in sun easier

  
  

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct and the most commonly used wax in commercial candles. It is inexpensive and holds fragrance and color well. However, it tends to produce more soot and may not be the best choice for those seeking natural or eco-friendly options.

• Affordable and widely available

• Excellent scent throw and color retention

• Produces more soot compared to natural waxes

• Not biodegradable

  
  

Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees. It has a naturally sweet scent and burns very cleanly. Beeswax candles are known for their long burn times and natural air-purifying properties. They are often more expensive but highly valued for their quality.

• Natural sweet aroma

• Long burn time

• More expensive

• Certain fragrances may not mix well

• Burns cleanly with little soot

• Naturally air-purifying

  
  

Coconut Wax

Coconut wax is made from the oil of coconuts and is often blended with other natural waxes like apricot or soy. It burns slowly and evenly, with an excellent scent throw. Coconut wax is sustainable and renewable, making it a great choice for eco-conscious consumers.

• Slow and even burn

• Excellent fragrance throw

• Sustainable and renewable

• Often blended for optimal performance

• Harder to melt in the sun

  
  

Hand-poured coconut-apricot wax candle burning steadily

Understanding the Benefits of Different Candle Wax Options

Choosing the right wax depends on what you value most in a candle. Here are some benefits to consider for each wax type:

• Clean Burning: If you want a candle that produces minimal soot and smoke, soy, beeswax, and coconut wax are excellent choices.

• Fragrance Throw: Paraffin wax is known for its strong scent throw, but coconut and soy waxes also perform well, especially when blended.

• Eco-Friendliness: Natural waxes like soy, beeswax, and coconut are renewable and biodegradable, making them better for the environment.

• Burn Time: Beeswax and coconut wax candles tend to burn longer, giving you more hours of enjoyment.

• Aesthetic and Texture: Beeswax has a natural golden hue, while soy and coconut waxes are creamy white, offering different looks for your candles.

  
  

For those interested in exploring more about the types of candle wax, this resource provides detailed insights into each wax and its unique properties.

Which type of wax is best for candles?

Determining the best wax for candles depends on your priorities. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• For Clean and Long Burn: Beeswax and coconut wax are top contenders. They burn slowly and cleanly, making them ideal for those who want a natural experience.

• For Strong Fragrance: Paraffin wax excels in scent throw, but coconut-apricot blends also offer excellent fragrance diffusion.

• For Eco-Friendly Choices: Soy, beeswax, and coconut waxes are sustainable and biodegradable, perfect for environmentally conscious buyers.

• For Budget-Friendly Options: Paraffin wax is the most affordable but comes with environmental trade-offs.

• For Handcrafted Quality: Small-batch, hand-poured candles using coconut-apricot wax provide a unique, artisanal touch with consistent performance.

  
  

Our candles, hand-poured in small batches, use a coconut-apricot wax blend that balances clean burning with a steady melt pool and excellent fragrance throw. This slow-craft approach ensures every candle tells a story, inspired by myths and characters that evoke emotions and settings.

Variety of candles made from different wax types displayed

Tips for Choosing and Caring for Your Candle

To get the most out of your candle, consider these practical tips:

1. Choose the Right Wax for Your Needs: Match the wax type to your preferences for scent, burn time, and environmental impact.

2. Trim the Wick: Keep the wick trimmed to about 1/4 inch to prevent soot and ensure a clean burn.

3. Burn Time: Allow the candle to burn long enough for the melt pool to reach the edges of the container. This prevents tunneling and maximizes fragrance release.

4. Store Properly: Keep candles away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to preserve their scent and appearance.

5. Safety First: Never leave a burning candle unattended and keep it away from flammable objects.

   
   

By following these tips, you can enjoy your candle’s full benefits and extend its life.