Why a natural candle is better for your health and the environment.

Brandende geurkaars vastgehouden door twee handen

Have you ever wondered why there is such a big price difference between different types of (scented) candles? While some candles can be found for less than a euro, natural candles can easily cost tens of euros. But what really makes natural candles different? The large (price) difference is mainly due to the choice of raw materials and their impact on the environment.

Different types of candle wax

Candles can be made from various types of wax. Each type of wax has its own unique properties. Below you will find the most commonly used types of candle wax.

  • Paraffin wax: This is the most commonly used type of wax and is made from petroleum. This is a cheap and readily available raw material, but unfortunately not very environmentally friendly. It can emit harmful substances and soot when the candle burns.

  • Stearin wax: This wax is made from animal fats or palm oil and is considered a cleaner alternative to paraffin wax, as this candle emits less soot. However, the origin of the raw materials can be a drawback for some consumers.

  • Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural product produced by bees. The wax burns cleaner than paraffin wax and has a natural, sweet scent. Beeswax is environmentally friendly, but due to its limited availability, it is often more expensive.

  • Soy wax: Soy wax comes from soybeans and is an increasingly popular choice for natural candles. It burns slower and cleaner than paraffin wax, but the environmental impact of soy wax cultivation, especially in South America, is a disadvantage.

  • Rapeseed wax: This wax is made from rapeseed and is known for its durability and local origin. This wax is ideal for natural candles. The wax burns evenly and cleanly and mixes well with essential oils. This raw material is more limited in availability and therefore somewhat more expensive than other types of wax.

  • Palm wax: Palm wax is made from palm oil and is known for its hard texture and ability to form intricate shapes and patterns in candles. However, the environmental impact of deforestation for palm oil plantations is a disadvantage.

  • Gel wax: Gel wax is a synthetic translucent wax used to make decorative candles with embeddings such as flowers, shells, or glitter.

The difference between a natural candle and a cheap candle

The difference is mainly based on the differences in raw materials, environmental impact, burning properties, and health aspects. These are the main differences:

 

Raw materials:

  • Natural candles: Made from natural and renewable materials as described in the previous paragraph. These waxes are derived from plants or bees.

  • Cheap candles: Often made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. This is a non-renewable source that is less environmentally friendly.

Environmental impact:

  • Natural candles: Generally more environmentally friendly because they are biodegradable and come from renewable sources. They have a smaller ecological footprint, especially if the raw materials are produced locally.

  • Cheap candles: The production and use of paraffin wax have a greater impact on the environment. The extraction of petroleum contributes to environmental pollution and the emission of greenhouse gases.

Burning properties:

  • Natural candles: Often burn longer and cleaner than traditional candles. They produce less soot and have a more stable flame.

  • Cheap candles: Can burn out faster and produce more soot and black smoke, which can leave marks on walls or the ceiling.

Health aspects:

  • Natural candles: As they are made from natural materials, they are generally better for indoor air quality. They emit fewer toxic substances and allergens.

  • Cheap candles: When burning, they can emit substances such as toluene and benzene, which can be harmful to health with prolonged exposure.

Scent and Aroma:

  • Natural candles: Are known to retain scents well, especially when mixed with natural essential oils. The scent is often more subtle and natural.

  • Cheap candles: May contain strong synthetic scents, which can be overwhelming and in some cases cause allergic reactions.

In summary, natural candles are a more environmentally friendly and healthier option compared to traditional candles, with benefits such as longer burning time, cleaner burning, and fewer harmful emissions.

Tiny Moments natural scented candle

At Tiny Moments, we have opted for sustainable and 100% natural scented candles with minimal environmental impact. The natural scented candles are made from European rapeseed wax, mixed with 100% pure essential oils, and are handmade in the Netherlands. With this, we offer a beautiful natural scented candle with a unique fragrance experience, which burns beautifully and evenly. Thus, the Tiny Moments natural candles are more than an ordinary candle; it is a symbol of luxury and sustainability, without compromise.

View Tiny Moments natural scented candles in the webshop.