Which wax is best for your scented candle and why
Are you one of those romantics, who enjoys the warm glow of candles and soft silhouettes they create? Well, you might be interested in knowing in-depth about how these beautiful candles are made. Before purchasing your next scented candle, check out which wax you should opt for and why. Here's a complete guide to the different types of candle wax.
Paraffin wax
Paraffin wax is the most commonly used wax and is the cheapest one available in the market. Since it is a by-product of petroleum, it is not sustainable. As a general rule of thumb, paraffin is also known for holding the scent better. Paraffin wax has been found to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when lit. Such candles also produce a lot of soot.
Soy wax
Soy wax is a mid-range wax with a slow burn. Made from soybeans, it is considered more eco-friendly than paraffin wax. If you are using a soy wax candle, be assured that it is better for your home's air quality, and keeps your family and pets safe. Without the soot and toxins released into the air, soy wax also has a stronger scent profile.
Beeswax
When it comes to removing volatile chemical compounds, beeswax is an excellent alternative to paraffin. Beeswax is an environmentally friendly alternative because it is made by bees during the honey-making process. Beeswax has a light, naturally sweet perfume of honey that helps to cleanse the air, but it isn't ideal for scented candles because not all smells mix well with honey.
Coconut wax
A relatively new type of wax, coconut wax is more expensive but offers an eco-friendly choice. The coconut wax is created by harvesting the oil and meat of the coconut. Coconuts are a renewable, sustainable crop. This wax holds fragrance and color rather well, making it a nice choice for decorative candles. Coconut wax, also, doesn't produce much soot and gives a cleaner burn.
Wax blends
To produce their own unique mix, many candle manufacturers combine two or more types of wax. Soy blend candles are a combination of soy wax and/or additional waxes/additives that make use of the benefits of both waxes. Natural soy mix is more eco-friendly, and the candles burn well producing no petro soot. Blended candles have a greater melting point as well.
