Illuminating the Choice: Natural Wax vs. Paraffin Wax in Candle Making

Candle making is an ancient craft that has evolved over centuries, with modern enthusiasts now faced with a crucial decision: natural wax or paraffin wax? This choice not only impacts the quality of the candle but also its environmental footprint. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key distinctions between natural and paraffin wax, shedding light on the benefits and considerations for both options.

Natural Wax:

Derived from renewable resources like soy, beeswax, or palm, natural wax is a popular choice among environmentally conscious candle makers. Soy wax, made from soybean oil, is biodegradable and emits fewer toxins when burned. Beeswax, a byproduct of honey production, boasts natural air-purifying properties and releases a mild, sweet aroma when lit. Palm wax, sourced from sustainable palm oil, offers a beautiful crystalline finish to candles.

Benefits of Natural Wax:

1. Eco-Friendly: Natural waxes are derived from renewable resources, making them a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious candle makers.
2. Cleaner Burn: They tend to burn cleaner, emitting fewer toxins and producing minimal soot or smoke.
3. Biodegradable: After serving their purpose, candles made from natural wax decompose naturally, leaving behind no harmful residues.
4. Customizable: Natural waxes readily accept color and fragrance additives, providing ample room for creativity in candle making.

Considerations for Natural Wax:

1. Price: Natural waxes may come at a slightly higher price point compared to paraffin wax due to the resources required for their production.
2. Scent Throw: Some natural waxes may have a milder scent throw compared to paraffin wax. Additional fragrance oils may be necessary for a more robust aroma.

Paraffin Wax:

Paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, is a widely used and economical choice for candle making. Known for its excellent scent throw and easy-to-work-with nature, it's favored by many commercial candle manufacturers.

Benefits of Paraffin Wax:

1. Affordability: Paraffin wax is generally less expensive than natural waxes, making it an accessible option for candle makers on a budget.
2. Excellent Scent Throw: It has a high fragrance retention capacity, making it ideal for scented candles that fill a room with their aroma.

Considerations for Paraffin Wax:

1. Non-Renewable Resource: Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource, which raises environmental concerns.
2. Emissions: When burned, paraffin wax releases potentially harmful chemicals into the air, which can contribute to indoor air pollution.

What did we learn?

In the world of candle making, the choice between natural wax and paraffin wax ultimately boils down to personal preference, budget, and environmental values. While natural wax may be the go-to for eco-conscious artisans, paraffin wax is the more affordable choice. As candle making continues to flourish, it's essential to weigh these factors carefully to create candles that not only illuminate our spaces but also align with our values.

What's next?

At Candle Castle & Co. in Chicago, we have made a deliberate and conscientious choice to exclusively use natural wax in our candle making classes and products. This decision is rooted in our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible sourcing. We firmly believe that by opting for natural wax, derived from renewable resources like soy and beeswax, we are taking a proactive step towards reducing our ecological footprint. This choice not only aligns with our values of environmental stewardship but also allows us to offer our customers a product that is both high-quality and eco-friendly. By prioritizing natural wax, we are not only creating beautiful candles but also contributing to a more sustainable future for our planet.

Visit us today to learn more about our Candle Making classes and the all natural wax we use!