While you get an array of scented candles, you should also know that there are plenty of choices for types of wax. You get waxes from different substances, some synthetic, some natural and some mixed. As such, you get numerous choices, from paraffin, coconut, beeswax, and rapeseed to soy wax candles. But how would you decide the right for your home? Below are some peculiarities of different candle wax types that you might consider before your next purchase.
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Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax candles are most commonly available. These are reliable and have a host of other advantages. For example, paraffin holds many fragrances and casts strong scents across the room. Paraffin can also be moulded differently and poured into glass or tin containers.
Another reason paraffin can be a preferred choice is because of its cost. But this wax is not eco-friendly as it is a by-product of oil refinement. Also, paraffin wax emits small amounts of benzene and VOCs that might not be a good choice if you have respiratory conditions.
Soy Wax
When compared to paraffin wax candles, soy wax candles have quite a few differences. Soy wax has a small crystal structure, whereas the crystal structure is large in paraffin wax. For this reason, soy wax is pliable and soft, whereas paraffin wax is brittle and harder. However, soy wax candles burn slow due to their high melting point. In addition, soy wax is much healthier as it emits few toxins and less soot as it is a by-product of soybean and not crude oil. So you don’t have to worry about indoor air quality. Also, the scent released by soy wax is subtle, so you may enjoy the fragrance for a long time without getting overwhelmed.
Beeswax
Similar to soy wax, beeswax is sustainable and eco-friendly. However, unlike paraffin wax, beeswax produces ions that purify the air. The downside of this wax is its sweet aroma, and it works perfectly in unscented candles but may not mingle with any other fragrance.
Coconut Wax
Coconut wax derived from coconuts is sustainable, like beeswax. It can hold the fragrance very well, making it an ideal substitute for paraffin. Further, coconut wax holds colour very well, so you can buy decorative candles matching your home’s colour palette. Like beeswax and soy wax, coconut wax burns clean and does not produce much soot. However, coconut is a high-yield crop, making coconut wax a bit expensive.
Rapeseed Wax
Rapeseed wax is the latest addition to the list of wax. Rapeseed oil is derived from mustard-like plants and cabbage. These candles are sustainable, locally sourced, and have a very small carbon footprint. Besides, these candles have a slow burning rate making them last longer.
Palm Wax
Palm wax is sourced from palm oil, and palm wax candles are firm and brittle and work well for votives and pillars. Palm wax gives off a feathered or crystalline effect in candles and is sometimes blended with soy wax to harden the texture.
Wax Blends
Wax blends are the combination of two or more types of wax. You can get different brands blending different waxes for an eco-friendlier option that also burns strong, like paraffin candles.
The choice of your candle wax is personal, and each type has its distinctive features. However, when burning candles, be mindful of their effects on your body. While most candles are safe to use, if you find your pet or loved one uncomfortable, you should extinguish them immediately. Also, to be sure of your purchase, carefully read candle tips and learn about harmful VOCs and air pollutants that might affect indoor air quality.