When choosing candles for your home, there are a number of elements to take into consideration. What colors and fragrances best complement each room? Are there particular shapes and sizes that contribute to your room’s design? Do you prefer thin or broad candles? Do you favor elegant candelabras or simple decorated plates?
One aspect that many people do not consider when making these decisions is the candle’s material: the ingredients that go into making each candle so charming and aromatic. In this series, we look at some of the most popular candle ingredients and help you consider which materials are best for your needs, values, and budget.
Paraffin Wax
One of the most common ingredients for candles is paraffin, a white, translucent waxy material that is quite flammable and inexpensive to produce. Generally speaking, unless a candle says otherwise, it is likely made of paraffin. While this material can be quite kind to the pocketbook and is easily purchased in bulk, paraffin candles are far less natural than their soy, beeswax, or palm and coconut wax counterparts. Furthermore, paraffin wax can release chemicals into the air, meaning that you should avoid them in closed or less ventilated areas of your home. These candles can be either scented or unscented and, though generally white, can come in a variety of colors.
Where to buy: Ikea
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