Beeswax candles are a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional candles. Made from 100% pure beeswax, these candles are non-toxic and produce a clean burn, free from harmful chemicals and pollutants. Beeswax candles also have a natural honey scent, adding a warm and inviting atmosphere to any room.
Unlike paraffin wax candles, which are made from petroleum, beeswax candles are a sustainable and renewable resource. Beeswax is produced by honey bees, making it a byproduct of the honey-making process. This means that beeswax candles are not only better for the environment, but also support the beekeeping industry.
Beeswax candles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from taper candles to pillar candles to tea lights. They are also available in a range of colours, from natural yellow to white to deep amber. Whether you’re looking for a romantic candlelit dinner, a relaxing bath, or a cosy night in, beeswax candles are a versatile and beautiful addition to any home.
What are Beeswax Candles?
Beeswax candles are candles made from beeswax, a natural wax produced by honey bees. The wax is collected from the wax glands of worker bees and is used to build honeycomb cells. The wax is then harvested and used for various purposes, including making candles.
Beeswax candles are known for their bright, warm, and natural glow. They are also known for their long burning time, which is typically longer than other types of candles. Beeswax candles are also environmentally friendly, as they are made from a renewable resource and do not produce harmful byproducts when burned.
One of the unique properties of beeswax candles is their ability to purify the air. When burned, beeswax candles release negative ions that bind with toxins and pollutants in the air, neutralizing them and making the air cleaner and healthier to breathe.
Beeswax candles come in various shapes and sizes, from votives and tea lights to pillar and taper candles. They can be scented with essential oils or left unscented for a natural fragrance. Beeswax candles are a popular choice for those who are sensitive to synthetic fragrances and chemicals found in other types of candles.
Benefits of Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are becoming increasingly popular due to their many benefits. From being natural and non-toxic to purifying the air, these candles are a great alternative to traditional paraffin candles. Here are some of the benefits of beeswax candles:
Natural and Non-Toxic
One of the biggest benefits of beeswax candles is that they are all-natural and non-toxic. Unlike paraffin candles, which are made from petroleum, beeswax candles are made from the wax produced by bees. This means that they do not contain any harmful chemicals or synthetic fragrances, making them a healthier option for your home.
Furthermore, beeswax candles do not release any harmful pollutants when burned. In fact, they release negative ions that can help to purify the air in your home, reducing the amount of dust, pollen, and other allergens in the air.
Longer Burn Time
Another benefit of beeswax candles is that they have a longer burn time than traditional candles. This is because beeswax is denser and has a higher melting point than paraffin wax. As a result, beeswax candles burn more slowly and last longer, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Additionally, beeswax candles do not drip as much as traditional candles, which means that they are less messy and easier to clean up.
Air Purifying Properties
Finally, beeswax candles have air purifying properties that can help to improve the air quality in your home. When burned, beeswax candles release negative ions that attach themselves to positively charged ions in the air, such as dust, pollen, and other allergens. This causes the positively charged ions to become heavier and fall to the ground, effectively removing them from the air.
Furthermore, beeswax candles can help to reduce the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory conditions by improving the air quality in your home. This makes them a great option for anyone who suffers from allergies or respiratory problems.
How Beeswax Candles are Made
Harvesting Beeswax
Beeswax candles are made from the all-natural material produced by honeybees, specifically worker bees. Worker bees have special glands in their abdomen that secretes wax, which is then used to build the cells of the honeycomb. Beekeepers can harvest beeswax by removing the honeycomb from the beehive and scraping off the wax caps that cover the honey.
Filtering and Melting Beeswax
Once the beeswax has been harvested, it needs to be filtered and melted to remove any impurities. The wax is melted in a double boiler or in a metal container placed in a pot of boiling water. The melted wax is then filtered through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove any debris or dirt.
It is important to note that beeswax has a high melting point, so it can take some time to melt completely. It is best to melt the wax slowly over low heat to prevent scorching or burning.
Adding Fragrance and Colour
Beeswax candles can be left uncoloured or can be dyed using natural dyes such as beetroot powder or turmeric. Fragrances can also be added to the wax using essential oils or other natural scents.
It is important to note that when adding fragrance or colour to beeswax, it is best to use only a small amount to avoid altering the quality of the wax. Too much fragrance or colour can affect the burn time and scent throw of the candle.
Overall, making beeswax candles is a simple process that can be done at home with a few basic supplies. By harvesting, filtering, and melting beeswax and adding fragrance and colour, you can create beautiful and all-natural candles that are perfect for any occasion.
Choosing the Best Beeswax Candles
Quality of Beeswax
When choosing the best beeswax candles, it is important to consider the quality of the beeswax used. Look for candles made with 100% pure beeswax, which burns cleaner and longer than candles made with a blend of beeswax and other waxes. Additionally, beeswax candles should be free of chemicals, pesticides, and other harmful additives.
Wick Material and Size
The wick of a beeswax candle is also an important factor to consider. Look for candles with cotton wicks, which are free of lead and other harmful metals. It is also important to choose the appropriate wick size for the size of the candle. A wick that is too small will not burn the wax properly, while a wick that is too large can cause the candle to burn too quickly and produce excess smoke.
Scent and Colour Options
Beeswax candles are available in a range of scents and colours to suit any preference. However, it is important to choose candles scented with natural essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances, which can be harmful to your health. Additionally, some coloured candles may contain artificial dyes, so it is important to choose candles made with natural colourants such as plant extracts. Overall, when choosing the best beeswax candles, look for high-quality candles made with 100% pure beeswax and cotton wicks, scented with natural essential oils, and coloured with natural colourants.
Conclusion
Beeswax candles are a popular choice for those looking for a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional candles. They offer a range of benefits, including a pleasant aroma, natural ionizing properties, and a slow and clean burn. However, they also come with some drawbacks, such as a higher cost and special care requirements.
If you’re considering using beeswax candles, it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable brand that uses only pure and natural ingredients. Look for candles that are free from toxins and chemicals, and that have been tested for safety and purity.
When it comes to making your own beeswax candles, it’s important to follow the proper safety procedures and use high-quality materials. Beeswax can be melted down and poured into a variety of shapes and sizes, making it a versatile and fun material to work with.
Overall, beeswax candles are a great choice for those looking for a natural and sustainable alternative to traditional candles. With their many benefits and few drawbacks, they offer a great way to add warmth and ambiance to any space.
