Using Natural Candle Waxes

Candle Waxes

 Candles have become a staple in creating ambiance and relaxation in our homes. While scented candles can offer pleasant aromas, the wax that fuels their flames is just as important as the scent itself. Traditional paraffin wax candles, made from petroleum, have long been the go-to for candle lovers. However, natural waxes like soy, beeswax, and palm are gaining popularity due to their numerous environmental and health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of using natural waxes in candle making and why they are a smarter, more sustainable choice.

Soy Candle Wax

 Soy wax, derived from soybean oil, has quickly become one of the most popular natural alternatives to paraffin wax. Here’s why:

• Renewable Resource: Soybeans are a renewable resource, meaning they can be grown year after year, unlike petroleum-based waxes, which rely on non-renewable fossil fuels.

• Cleaner Burn: Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin wax, producing minimal soot and fewer toxins in the air. This makes it a healthier choice for both you and the environment, especially for those with respiratory issues.

• Longer Burn Time: Soy wax burns at a lower temperature, making it burn longer and more evenly than paraffin candles. This means you get more time to enjoy your candle.

• Biodegradable: Soy wax is biodegradable, so if a spill occurs, it’s much easier to clean up with warm water and soap compared to paraffin wax, which requires solvents.

Checkout our soy candles for some great scent options.

Beeswax Candles

 Beeswax has been used for centuries, prized for its clean burn and natural benefits. Here’s what makes beeswax unique:

• Air-Purifying Qualities: When burned, beeswax candles release negative ions that help purify the air by neutralizing dust, pollen, and other pollutants. This makes them an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.

• Long Burn Time: Like soy wax, beeswax burns slowly and lasts longer than paraffin. It also produces a warm, natural honey scent, adding a touch of nature’s fragrance to your space.

• Non-Toxic: Unlike paraffin, beeswax is a non-toxic, natural substance free from harmful chemicals, making it safe to burn in your home.

• Sustainable: Beeswax is a renewable resource, but it does require responsible harvesting from beekeepers to ensure healthy bee populations. It’s important to support companies that source beeswax from ethical suppliers.

Palm Wax Candles

Palm wax is another natural alternative made from palm oil. Its key advantages include:

• Distinctive Appearance: Palm wax creates a beautiful crystalline texture when it solidifies, offering an attractive, decorative element to candles. It’s perfect for those looking for an elegant touch in their candle designs.

• Sustainably Sourced: When purchased from certified sustainable palm oil plantations, palm wax is an eco-friendly option. It’s important to ensure that palm oil production doesn’t contribute to deforestation or habitat destruction.

• Long Burn Time: Palm wax has a high melting point, which means it burns more slowly and efficiently, providing longer-lasting use compared to traditional paraffin.

Natural vs. Synthetic Candle Wax

While paraffin wax is widely used due to its affordability and availability, it poses significant drawbacks when compared to natural waxes. Paraffin is a byproduct of petroleum refining, a non-renewable resource, and releases toxic chemicals when burned, including carcinogens like toluene and benzene. On the other hand, natural waxes, like soy, beeswax, and palm, offer a healthier, more eco-friendly burn. While they may come at a higher price point, the benefits they offer make them a worthwhile investment for conscious consumers.

Candle Wax Choices

 Choosing a natural wax over paraffin has a profound impact on reducing your carbon footprint. The production of soybeans, for example, absorbs carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change. Additionally, beeswax and palm wax contribute less to environmental degradation compared to their synthetic counterparts, as they come from renewable sources when harvested responsibly. In contrast, paraffin’s extraction and production process release greenhouse gases and contribute to pollution.

Choose Natural Candle Wax

 Natural waxes are a superior choice when it comes to candles. Not only do they offer a cleaner, longer-lasting burn, but they also contribute to your well-being and support sustainable agricultural practices. While paraffin wax still dominates the market, consumers are becoming more aware of the benefits of natural alternatives. By choosing soy, beeswax, or palm wax, you’re not only making a healthier decision for your home but also helping to protect the planet.