Which Type of Candle Wax is The Best To Buy?

If you are like me, you are definitely obsessed with candles! I am always going through the candle aisle in every store, wishing I could buy everyone. I love having my house or rooms smell amazing and cozy! But now that I have been using many candles, I have noticed that they are all made out of different waxes, and some I had no idea you could make wax out of. But what has even got me more curious is if there is a most preferred one. And if you are wondering about that too, well don’t worry because I did the research for you; here are the different types of wax and their pros and cons.

1. Paraffin wax

This is the most popular form of wax currently because it is inexpensive, so you will find this everywhere. Not only this but according to the website homesick, it holds and emits the most fragrance and it is very durable, meaning it can be made into any shape or size. This is because homesick states “it is offered in several different grades, according to its melting point and oil content.” However, paraffin wax is the least eco-friendly because the oil contained in it is not sustainable. This wax has also been found to emit “small amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) toluene and benzene when they are lit, which have been linked to asthma and lung cancer.” So, while it is the cheapest type of wax, it is cheap for a reason; it can hurt you and the environment.

2. Soy wax

Soy wax is a great type of wax because it is eco-friendly (because it comes from soybeans!) and has a slower burn time. According to the same article, “Soy wax can burn up to 50 percent longer than paraffin, although this depends on factors like candle size, wick height, etc.” One thing to note is that soy wax does not hold fragrances as well as paraffin wax, but depending on who you are that can be a pro or a con. So far soy wax seems to be a winner because it is not only safe for you and the environment, but it burns more slowly and is safer for you and your family (no toxins emitted)!

3. Beeswax

Another eco-friendly wax is beeswax. This form of candle wax has been used for thousands of years because it is derived from the honey-making process and has a sweet smell to it. While this is true, it is mostly used for unscented candles because it may be too much when adding fragrances to it or create an unwanted smell.

4. Coconut wax

A new type of wax has actually entered the candle world and is becoming very popular. That is coconut wax and it is popular because it holds fragrances and colors quite well! Not only this, but like soy candles it produces very little soot when burned. While this seems to be the perfect wax, it is noted on Martha Stewart’s website that it is very expensive. This has to do with the fact that coconut is a popular product for many things (food and beauty products).

5. Blends of wax

An option to have the best of both worlds is finding candles with wax blends of different kinds. This way companies that make candles can have some that are more eco-friendly and hold stronger smells and colors. One thing to note is this type depends on the company that makes them. Some companies just combine two, some may combine more, and the amount blended in each depends as well.

In summary, it seems to me that the best candle to go for is soy wax candles, and if you are willing to splurge, definitely go for a coconut wax candle! But all in all, choose whatever you think is best for you and your family!

All information is credited to an article found on homesick.com and marthastewart.com. check out these sites for more information on what may be best for you.