When it comes to choosing the right candle, it’s not just about the colour or the scent - it’s also about what’s inside. From a sustainability standpoint, health concerns, and even how beautifully a candle burns, the type of wax makes a big difference. Today, we're diving into the world of candle waxes - comparing beeswax, soy wax, and paraffin to help you decide what’s best for your home and heart.
Whether you're shopping for a cosy night in or searching for the perfect eco-friendly gift, understanding the wax makes it all the more meaningful. And yes, we’ll throw in a few gentle chuckles along the way - because life’s too short for boring blogs and dull candles.
Candle wax is the fuel that makes the flame glow. As the wax melts, it feeds the wick, keeping your candle burning bright. The most common waxes on the market are:
Each one has its own charm (and flaws). Let’s get to know them better, shall we?
At Beeswax Bay Farm, we’re biased - in the best possible way. Beeswax is our number one choice, and it’s easy to see why.
✔ 100% natural and non-toxic
✔ Sourced sustainably from beekeepers (we only use wax from Devon!)
✔ Naturally honey-scented - no added fragrance required
✔ Burns cleanly with very little smoke
✔ Long burn time
✔ Releases negative ions that purify the air (science and magic)
Beeswax has been used since ancient Egypt! If it’s good enough for the Pharaohs, it’s good enough for your cosy cottage too.
Soy wax has made a name for itself in the world of eco-conscious living. It's a vegetable-based wax made from soybean oil, making it vegan-friendly and biodegradable.
✔ Renewable and sustainable
✔ Burns cleaner than paraffin
✔ Great for scented candles - holds fragrance well
✔ Widely available and affordable
✔ Minimal soot if wicked properly.
However, not all soy wax is created equal. Check for 100% soy wax and steer clear of blends that sneak in paraffin. We use pure soy wax in our tea lights and wax melts for that very reason.
Some people experience slight frosting or uneven surfaces with soy wax. It’s natural - like freckles on a strawberry.
Paraffin wax is made from petroleum by-products. While it’s cost-effective and great for colourful designs, it comes with a few… let’s say quirks.
✔ Inexpensive and easy to produce
✔ Strong scent throw
✔ Consistent appearance
✘ Derived from crude oil
✘ Often emits soot and smoke
✘ Can release harmful chemicals when burned
✘ Not biodegradable or sustainableIt’s the fast food of the candle world: convenient, but not great for your health or the planet.
It depends on your values and purpose. Here's a handy summary:
All our beeswax candles are:
✔ Handmade in Warwickshire
✔ Poured with love using beeswax sourced from trusted Devon beekeepers
✔ Free from additives, dyes, or nasties
✔ Packaged in eco-friendly materials
✔ Perfect as gifts, home décor, or a quiet moment of self-careAnd we don’t stop at beeswax! We also craft rustic wooden décor, from towel ladders to milking benches - just in case your wax melts need a stylish home. Explore our collection
So, what’s your wax personality? A rustic beeswax lover? A mindful soy-scented soul? Or perhaps a reformed paraffin user on a new, eco-friendly journey?
Whichever wax you choose, make sure it reflects your values and fills your space with warmth (and none of the nasties).
Thanks for popping in - and remember, no matter the wax, every flame starts with a little spark.