Every minute details matter in the candle-making business. What types of candles do you prefer? Do you want to make scented or normal candles? The type of wicks that you would be using and many other factors.

Different Types of Waxes to Make Candles

If you are in Australia and are looking for candle supplies, you can check out genuine stores such as Aussie Candle Supplies, located in Wangara, Perth. They offer a comprehensive range of candle supplies at wholesale prices. You can even opt for candle-making kits, which have all the basic supplies required for beginners to start your candle-making business. 

When it comes to candle wax, below are the popular options:

Soy Wax

Soy wax is made from vegetable wax derived from soybean oil. This is an eco-friendly option for paraffin wax as they are renewable and biodegradable. Benefits include:

  • They are slow-burning, hence last a longer time
  • They are economical when compared to other waxes
  • They also tend to burn cleaner, leaving no residue or soot

The downside to these is that they do not have the tendency to expand and contract and may leave frost marks on the candle. As they are not flexible, these are not recommended for scented candles. 

Palm Wax

Palm wax is a plant-based wax made from palms and is harder compared to coconut wax. It creates crystal patterns and feathers when used in candles, making it an intriguing sight. Benefits include:

  • It offers a smokeless and soot-free burn
  • It mixes well with other candle ingredients
  • It is easy to add different colours

The downside of these candles is they tend to be expensive and difficult to find as these are a relatively new concept in the candle industry. 

Beeswax

Beeswax is one of the oldest waxes used in candle making. Beeswax is derived from bees. It has a naturally sweet fragrance as it is infused into honeycombs. Benefits include:

  • They purify the air
  • It is soot free
  • It burns longer

The downsides are these can be difficult to colour due to their natural colour. These also tend to be a bit on the expensive side. 

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is one of the popular waxes used in candle making. This is a by-product of petroleum and crude oil, so it might not be the perfect option for eco-friendly candles. Benefits include:

  • Holds scent better
  • It is versatile
  • Has various melting points

The downsides are that it creates smoke and soot, and does not last long.

Gel Wax

These are made from hydrocarbons and mineral oils that give them a clear and rubbery texture. Benefits include:

  • Easy to make and scent
  • Perfect choice for making unique or designer candles
  • No soot

The downsides are that the wrong fragrance used can cause gel wax to catch fire. 

Coconut Wax

As the name suggests, coconut wax is derived from coconuts and is known for its soft and creamy texture. Benefits include:

  • Eco-friendly
  • Offers a smokeless clean burn
  • Slow-burning thereby lasts for a longer time

The downside is that they are expensive and not available at different melting points

Different Candles Compatible with Different Candle Waxes

If you want to make specific candles, then you need the right type of wax to make it possible. Not all waxes are compatible with all candles. If you are making the below candles, then you might want to use these waxes:

  • Tea light candles – Paraffin wax, soy, beeswax, palm, and blends
  • Tarts – Paraffin and soy
  • Votive candles – Paraffin, soy, palm, and beeswax
  • Pillar candles - Paraffin, beeswax, and palm
  • Gel candles – Gel wax
  • Taper candles – Paraffin and beeswax
  • Container candles - Paraffin, soy, palm, and beeswax

Conclusion

The candle wax type you use depends on the nature of the candle you are making. Ensure that you take into the pros and cons of each candle wax to get the best results.