FAQs About Buying And Using Beeswax Candles
Posted on: 27 March 2023
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Beeswax candles have become more popular lately. You'll see them at a lot of craft stores, and also in some specialty candle shops. They are a more natural alternative to the standard candles that are made with paraffin wax. But if you've never purchased and used a beeswax candle before, you might have a few questions you'd like answered before you buy one.
Why do they cost so much?
Beeswax candles do cost significantly more than paraffin candles and even soy candles, but for good reasons. They are a lot more work to make. For one, the process of keeping bees and then harvesting their wax is demanding and requires a lot of time and equipment. Then, there is the process of melting down the wax and shaping it into candles, which takes not only time but also skill. Beeswax candles are usually handmade or made in small batches, which costs more than making paraffin candles in bulk on factory equipment.
How do you burn a pillar-shaped beeswax candle?
Most beeswax candles are pillar-shaped since this shape tends to burn well. To burn such a candle, start by trimming the wick down so it is just a small nub above the wax. Then, light the candle. Let it burn for a few hours; this is important with beeswax as shorter burns can cause tunneling. Put the candle out with an extinguisher rather than blowing on it. Then, use your hands to gently push the candle's sides in, molding it back into a perfect cylinder shape. This is known as hugging, and it keeps the candle from tunneling or burning unevenly.
Will beeswax candles leave soot in your home?
No. In fact, this is one reason why they are so popular. Beeswax is a lot cleaner-burning than paraffin. As long as you keep the wick trimmed, very little to no soot is produced as the candle is burned. This means a cleaner home and cleaner air. Some people even think that burning beeswax candles helps clean their air, which is why they tend to burn them when someone has had a cold or the flu.
With these questions answered, you should be better prepared to buy a beeswax candle. Many people find them delightful to use and burn. So, give one a try. You may need a little practice lighting and hugging one of these candles, but you'll catch on quickly.