Candles are a popular way to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in any space. But did you know there are several different types of wax used to make candles?
From soy wax to beeswax to paraffin, each wax type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
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Paraffin wax
Paraffin wax is one of the most commonly used waxes for candle making - and the most controversial!
Paraffin has a low melting temperature and is easy to work with, making it a popular choice for DIY candle makers. It also has excellent scent-retaining properties, allowing it to hold fragrances for a long period of time.
However, paraffin is a byproduct of the oil industry, and may not be the most environmentally-friendly choice for brands looking to create an eco candle.
Paraffin wax is the best choice if using dye, due to its light colouring
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Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural, renewable resource and one of the oldest types of candle wax.
It’s a bit more expensive than paraffin wax, but it burns cleanly and doesn’t produce any soot or smoke.
Beeswax also has a very slight aroma, which is an important consideration when choosing your fragrance.
Beeswax can be sourced with colour or deodorised (uncoloured)
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Soy wax
Soy wax is a popular alternative to beeswax and is made from hydrogenated soybean oil.
Soy wax burns clean and is non-toxic, making it a great choice for those looking for an eco-friendly option. Soy candles also have a longer burn time than paraffin wax and are a great choice for those looking for a longer lasting candle.
At Vuur, we use soy wax for majority of our candles
Apricot wax
Apricot wax is a vegetable wax derived from the kernels of apricot fruits.
It's known for its ability to hold strong fragrance and color, making it a great choice for creating scented candles.
Apricot wax also has a low melting point, making it easier to work with and allowing it to create a longer and more even burn.
Apricot wax: an increasingly popular wax
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Coconut wax
Coconut wax is made from hydrogenated coconut oil. It's a popular choice for candles because it has a high melting point, which helps candles last longer.
Coconut wax also has a creamy texture and a subtle coconut scent, making it perfect for creating luxurious-smelling candles.
Our coconut wax options are sourced from the USA
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Canola wax
Canola wax is a vegetable wax derived from the seeds of the canola plant.
It has a low melting point, making it easy to work with and allowing it to create an even burn. Canola wax also has a long burn time and holds scent well.
The downside to using canola wax is that it has a low melt point and can become brittle, so it's important to store it in a cool, dry place.
Our canola wax options are all British grown and processed
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Conclusion
When it comes to making candles, wax is a key component. Different types of waxes have different properties that affect how a candle looks, smells, and burns.
We hope this blog post has helped you to understand the different types of waxes available for candle making and the pros and cons of each.
Whether you’re a professional candle maker or just starting out, you should now feel more informed about the different types of waxes and which one might work best for you.
With this knowledge, you can confidently choose the right type of wax for your candles and create beautiful, long lasting works of art.