Differences Between Wax Types

We offer a variety of candle sizes and scents as well as utilize multiple wax types. Each wax type has its own pros and cons, such as some wax types hold scent better than others, some burn cleaner, and some are better suited to freestanding or vessel designs. Candle wax is available in a variety of types and blends, the most common of which is paraffin wax, soy wax, and beeswax. Coconut wax, a relative newcomer to the candle wax market, is also gaining popularity. So, which type of candle wax is better? It's not completely clear that any one type is better than another, as they all have pros and cons.

Parraffin Wax

Compared to other waxes, paraffin wax is one of the most widely used across mass produced candle brands because it is cheaper and holds a strong color when dyed. Additionally, it is available in various melting points, so it can be used for many different candles, from containers to pillars. Nonetheless, it's not the most eco-friendly type of candle wax, since it is made from a byproduct of the oil industry. The downside is that paraffin wax candles produce soot if not maintained properly.

Soy Wax

This wax is a mid-range option that burns slowly, which makes it a great value. The wax is made from soy beans and is considered more eco-friendly than paraffin wax. Despite this, it is a by-product of the soybean industry, and concerns are growing over deforestation, fertilizers, and pesticides used in the production process. Despite this, it can be particularly problematic to work with: "It is temperamental with temperature and can shrink, as well as 'frost' with white spots. Soy wax has a stronger fragrance throw than paraffin wax, so it can be a pro or a con, depending on the scent.

Beeswax

Beeswax is one of the oldest forms of candle wax and is another eco-friendly option since it's derived from bees during the honey-making process and is considered to be the cleanest burning candle wax with a clean and moderately strong scent. Because of this, beeswax has a very subtle naturally sweet aroma that helps purify the air. Beeswax is also a harder, more solid wax that's often used in blends for container candles or to make unscented pillars.

Coconut Wax

This newer type of wax is harvested from coconuts which is a high-yield and sustainable crop. Coconut wax is popular for this reason, but also because it holds fragrance and color very well, plus has a clean burn that produces very little soot. Unfortunately, it tends to be the most expensive candle wax of the bunch.

Wax Blends

When shopping for candles, you'll often see blends. Many brands blend different waxes together to form a more eco-friendly option that burns strong and is better suited for either container candles, pillar candles, or wax melts.

What type of candle wax is “best”?

What type of wax you choose ultimately depends on what type of candle you're making, how much you want to spend, and what kind of fragrance you prefer. how eco-conscious you are. Despite their popularity, each of these types of candle wax has its own advantages and disadvantages. Remember that wax, fragrance grade, wick, and vessel are all important in determining the overall quality of a candle and the overall experience you'll have with the candle.