All About Beeswax Candles
For hundreds of years, beeswax candles have been the most valued and preferred candle type by royalty, nobility, and the church because of their gorgeous light and light aroma. They’re more durable than alternative candle types, helping them burn for significantly longer than paraffin, soy, or palm alternatives, and they can be much better for your health and the environment.
Here are four facts about beeswax candles and a simple guide to creating your own beautiful candle!
Beeswax candles are all-natural
Beeswax is a non-toxic, natural byproduct of bees. In nature, bees use this waxy substance to construct and repair their hives.
It’s one of the densest waxes and has a high melting point, meaning it doesn’t need any additives, hardeners, or chemical treatments to make a high-quality, durable product.
Beeswax candles are environmentally friendly
Paraffin candles are often treated with bleach and other chemicals to change their color. This creates toxic dioxins that are released into the air when burned.
100% beeswax candles, on the other hand, are chemical-free and completely biodegradable. Since they are not oil-based like paraffin candles, they burn extremely clean with little to no smoke when trimmed and burned correctly.
Beeswax candles may help clean the air
Studies have shown that beeswax candles produce negative ions when burned, helping to pull toxins and neutralize pollutants in the air. This can help improve breathing for those nearby by eliminating dust, odors, and mold from the air.
Since they are hypo-allergenic, beeswax candles can also be enjoyed by individuals with environmental allergies, asthma, sinus problems, and other sensitivities.
Beeswax candles have a brighter, longer burn
Thanks to its high melting point, beeswax emits a beautiful, warm-toned light that is similar to the light spectrum of the sun.
Beeswax candles also last much longer than other candles and are naturally dripless. These candles will burn 3 - 4 times as long as paraffin candles in normal conditions and will create no drips or soot.
How to make your own beeswax candle
Believe it or not, crafting your own beeswax candles can be quite an easy and fun project to undertake! They’re perfect for enjoying around your home or giving as thoughtful gifts.
To make your own beeswax candles you will need:
- Approximately 32 ounces of natural beeswax
- Mason jars (size depends on how many candles you want to make)
- Candle wicks
- Large double boiler pot
- Wooden dowel or chopsticks
- Essential oils (optional)
It’s important to note that many people find it tricky to get the fragrance of essential oils to shine through in beeswax candles. Some recommend adding in approximately 25 drops of essential oils per ounce of beeswax or adding a few cups of organic coconut oil into the mixture to help absorb the fragrance. Fortunately, beeswax has a naturally pleasant, slightly honey-like scent to it, so if you opt out of the essential oils, it will still be delightful!
Here’s how to make them:
- Roughly chop your beeswax into large pieces and set aside.
- Bring water to a boil in the bottom half of the double boiler over medium-high heat.
- Lower the heat to medium and add in the wax and coconut oil (if using) into the top part of the pot.
- Allow the wax and oil to melt slowly, occasionally stirring to ensure even melting.
- While they are melting, center your wicks into the mason jars and wrap the top around the wooden dowel, resting it on the top of the jar to hold it in place.
- Once your wax is completely melted, add in your optional essential oils and stir well to combine,
- Carefully pour the wax mixture into the candles, leaving about a 1/2 inch from the top of the jar.
- Allow the wax mixture to completely cool - about 1 hour - before timing the wicks and lidding.
If you decide to make your own beeswax candles, be sure to share them with us! Upload your photo on Instagram or Facebook and tag us at @keeperscollective_. We can’t wait to see your creations!