Beeswax candles are natural, burn cleaner, and release negative ions that purify the air, while paraffin candles are made from petroleum, burn faster, and can release harmful chemicals. Choosing beeswax supports sustainability and offers a healthier option for indoor air quality.
Candles have been used for centuries to create ambiance, provide light, and offer a sense of comfort and relaxation. Today, they come in many forms, with beeswax and paraffin being two of the most popular types. While both serve the same fundamental purpose, the differences between them extend far beyond their appearance.
From their composition to their environmental impact, choosing between beeswax and paraffin candles can make a significant difference in the atmosphere you create and the air you breathe.
Understanding the key differences between these two types of candles can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your health, environmental values, and aesthetic preferences.
In this blog, we'll explore what sets beeswax candles apart from paraffin candles, covering aspects like burning characteristics, health and environmental impact, scent, and cost.
Composition and Origin
Beeswax Candles
As the name suggests, Beeswax candles are made from natural beeswax, a substance produced by honeybees as they build their honeycombs. Honeybees produce this wax to build their honeycombs, which is then harvested and purified to make candles. This process retains the wax’s natural golden color and subtle honey scent, offering an eco-friendly and renewable resource. This beeswax is harvested and purified to create candles, retaining its natural golden color and subtle honey scent.
Unlike other candle types, beeswax is a renewable resource that doesn't require chemical processing, making it a more eco-friendly choice.
Paraffin Candles
In contrast, Paraffin candles are derived from petroleum, coal, or shale oil. The process of making paraffin wax involves refining crude oil, removing impurities to create a waxy substance that can be used for candle-making. This refining process results in a white, odorless wax that can easily be colored and scented artificially. Due to its petroleum origin, paraffin is a non-renewable resource and is often criticized for its environmental impact and potential health risks.
Burning Characteristics of Beeswax and Paraffin Candles
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are known for their clean and efficient burn. They have a higher melting point than other candle types, which results in a brighter, warmer flame that burns longer. This high melting point also means that beeswax candles are naturally dripless when burned in a draft-free environment.
They produce very little soot, so you won’t have to worry about black marks on walls or ceilings. Additionally, as they burn, beeswax candles release a natural, subtle honey aroma that can enhance the ambiance of any room. There are many benefits of beeswax candles that sets beeswax candles apart from the rest and can be a great option for you!
Paraffin Candles
Paraffin candles burn differently than beeswax candles. They have a lower melting point, which causes them to burn faster and often produce more soot. This soot can sometimes contain harmful chemicals, contributing to indoor air pollution and leaving black residue on nearby surfaces.
Paraffin candles are also more prone to dripping and require regular maintenance, such as trimming the wick, to minimize soot production and ensure a clean burn. Despite these drawbacks, paraffin candles are favored for their ability to be easily colored and scented, making them versatile in terms of appearance and fragrance.
Health and Environmental Impact
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are a healthier option for indoor air quality. As they burn, they release negative ions that help neutralize pollutants like dust, mold, and allergens, effectively purifying the air. This can make a noticeable difference in the atmosphere of your home, especially for those with allergies or asthma.
Beeswax is also non-toxic and hypoallergenic, making it a safe choice for environments with children and pets. From an environmental standpoint, beeswax candles are a sustainable option. They are biodegradable and derived from a renewable resource, supporting the ecosystem by promoting responsible beekeeping practices.
Paraffin Candles
Paraffin candles, in contrast, can have a negative impact on both health and the environment. When burned, they can release potentially harmful chemicals such as toluene and benzene, which are known carcinogens. This can contribute to indoor air pollution and may aggravate respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.
Since paraffin is a byproduct of the petroleum industry, its production contributes to the consumption of non-renewable resources and the environmental footprint associated with oil refining. The soot produced by paraffin candles can also accumulate on walls and furniture, further impacting indoor air quality. Although these options can be more affordable and widely available, it can also make them less eco-friendly compared to beeswax candles.
Scent and Aesthetics
Beeswax Candles
One of the most distinct characteristics of beeswax candles is their natural scent. They emit a subtle, sweet fragrance of honey and floral notes without the need for added fragrances or chemicals. This natural aroma is gentle and not overpowering, providing a pleasant background scent that can enhance the ambiance of a room.
Aesthetically, beeswax candles have a warm, golden hue that creates a cozy, inviting glow when lit. Their natural appearance and soft light make them a favorite for creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
Paraffin Candles
Paraffin candles, on the other hand, are known for their versatility in scent and color. They can be easily infused with a wide variety of synthetic fragrances, ranging from floral and fruity to seasonal and exotic scents. This allows for a vast selection of scented candles that cater to different preferences and occasions.
In terms of aesthetics, paraffin candles can be dyed in almost any color and molded into various shapes and sizes, making them a popular choice for decorative purposes. However, the fragrances and dyes used in paraffin candles are often synthetic, which can sometimes lead to a chemical-like odor when burned.
While they offer more customization options, they may not provide the same natural experience as beeswax candles.
Cost and Availability
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are generally more expensive than paraffin candles, and this is primarily due to their natural sourcing and labor-intensive production process. Harvesting beeswax involves sustainable beekeeping practices, and it takes a significant amount of honeycomb to produce a small amount of wax. The cost reflects the purity, quality, and environmental benefits that come with beeswax candles.
Despite the higher price, they tend to burn longer than paraffin candles, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
Paraffin Candles
More affordable and widely available, paraffin candles are mass-produced and come in various shapes, colors, and scents. While their lower price point offers convenience, it often comes at the expense of quality and environmental considerations.
Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are an eco-friendly and sustainable option, aligning with a more environmentally conscious lifestyle. Beeswax is a renewable resource, and its production encourages the support of responsible beekeeping practices, which are vital for the health of bee populations and, by extension, the pollination of many crops.
By choosing beeswax candles, you can help contribute to the preservation of bees, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, beeswax candles are biodegradable and produce minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle, from production to disposal. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainable living.
Paraffin Candles
On the other hand, Paraffin candles raise several environmental and ethical concerns. As a byproduct of the petroleum industry, paraffin candles rely on non-renewable resources and contribute to pollution.
Furthermore, the chemicals and synthetic additives used in paraffin candles can release toxins into the air when burned, potentially harming both indoor air quality and the environment. Although they are more affordable and accessible, paraffin candles do not offer the same level of environmental responsibility as beeswax candles, which may be a deciding factor for eco-conscious consumers.
Why Should You Choose Beeswax Candles?
In summary, the choice between beeswax and paraffin candles involves considering various factors such as health, environmental impact, burn quality, and cost. Beeswax candles offer a natural, clean-burning experience with the added benefits of air purification and sustainability, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize health and environmental responsibility. Although they are more expensive, their longer burn time and eco-friendly nature often justify the higher cost.
Paraffin candles, while more affordable and versatile in scent and color, come with drawbacks related to their petroleum-based composition and potential health risks. They may be suitable for occasional use or decorative purposes, but they lack the natural and holistic qualities that beeswax candles provide.
Discover the pure, natural quality of Ames Farm's beeswax candles, crafted from sustainably sourced beeswax for a clean and long-lasting burn. These candles not only provide a warm, golden glow but also support the health and vitality of local bee populations. Choose Ames Farm for an eco-friendly, artisan product that brings the beauty and benefits of beeswax into your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beeswax Candles
Are beeswax candles healthier than paraffin candles?
Yes, beeswax candles are healthier because they burn cleaner, releasing negative ions that can help purify the air, while paraffin candles can emit harmful chemicals like toluene and benzene.
Why do beeswax candles cost more than paraffin candles?
Beeswax candles are more expensive because they are made from natural beeswax, which is sustainably sourced and requires more effort to produce compared to the mass-produced, petroleum-based paraffin candles.
Do beeswax candles have a strong scent like paraffin candles?
Beeswax candles have a natural, subtle honey scent without added fragrances, unlike paraffin candles, which are often infused with synthetic scents.
Do beeswax candles last longer than paraffin candles?
Yes, beeswax candles typically burn longer than paraffin candles due to their higher melting point, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
