Candlelight has a mesmerizing attraction that draws us in, engaging our senses and fostering a cozy and peaceful atmosphere. One candidate has endured the test of time among the several candle alternatives available: beeswax candles. 

Beeswax candles are known and loved by candle aficionados for their natural beauty and honey scent. Beyond their visual appeal, however, there is one query that many people still have: Do beeswax candles burn longer?

We dive into the enigmatic glow of beeswax candles in this examination of enlightening insights to uncover the truth about their burn time and throw light on the elements that may contribute to their potential lifespan.

Comparison with other Candles

The burning time varies from candle to candle. Here is a brief comparison of the burning time of different types of candles.

Why do Beeswax Candles Burn Longer?

It’s important to note that the specific burn time of a beeswax candle can vary depending on factors such as candle size, wick type, and environmental conditions. However, overall, the natural properties of beeswax make it an excellent choice for those seeking longer-lasting candles.

Do Beeswax Candles Burn Longer?

Yes, it’s true beeswax candles burn longer as compared to any other candle. It’s because of several factors, some of which are as follows:

Higher Melting Point: Comparatively to other waxes like paraffin or soy wax, beeswax has a greater melting point. Because beeswax has a greater melting point, its candles burn more slowly and last longer.

Dense and Compact: Beeswax is naturally denser and more compact than other waxes. This density allows beeswax candles to burn more slowly and evenly, resulting in a longer burning time.

Efficient Fuel Source: Beeswax is a rich and efficient fuel source. It contains higher amounts of long-chain hydrocarbons, which provide a higher energy density when burned. This means that beeswax candles produce a steady flame that can burn for a longer duration.

Lack of Additives: Beeswax is a natural product that normally doesn’t include any chemicals or additions. The burning characteristics or look of several other candle varieties, such as paraffin candles, may be altered by the addition of chemicals. Beeswax candles burn cleaner and longer since there are no additives in them.

Natural Wick Compatibility: Natural wicks with good burn characteristics, such as cotton or hemp, are frequently used with beeswax candles. Beeswax and an appropriate natural wick work together to produce a burn that is more effective and lasts longer.

Some Other Benefits of  Beeswax Candles

Beeswax candles offer several benefits beyond their long burning duration. Here are some additional advantages of using beeswax candles:

Natural and Non-Toxic: Bees create beeswax naturally, which makes it a better option to paraffin candles, which are made of petroleum. Because beeswax candles don’t create any hazardous chemicals or pollutants as they burn, the interior air quality is improved.

Clean and Dripless: Beeswax has a high melting point, resulting in candles that burn cleanly and produce minimal to no soot or smoke. Unlike some other types of candles, beeswax candles typically do not drip excessively, which makes them a low-maintenance option.

Natural Fragrance: Beeswax has a subtle, natural fragrance reminiscent of honey. When burned, beeswax candles emit a warm, sweet scent that can create a soothing and calming atmosphere in your space.

Ionization Properties: When burned, beeswax candles emit negative ions into the atmosphere. These negative ions may assist improve air quality and lessen symptoms for those with respiratory sensitivities by neutralizing positive ions found in allergies, dust, and pollution.

Long-Lasting Glow: Beeswax candles have a unique warm glow that closely resembles natural sunlight. This gentle and inviting light can create a cozy and relaxing ambiance in your home.

Environmentally Friendly: Beeswax is a renewable resource, and its production does not involve any harsh chemicals or environmentally damaging processes. By choosing beeswax candles, you support sustainable beekeeping practices and reduce your ecological footprint.

Tips To Increase Beeswax Candle Durability

To increase the durability of beeswax candles and maximize their burning time, you can employ several strategies and techniques. Here are some tips to consider:

Trim the Wick: Before lighting a beeswax candle, ensure the wick is trimmed to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) in length. A longer wick can lead to excessive flame height and faster burning.

Avoid Drafts: Place the candle in an area where it is protected from drafts or strong air currents. Air movement can cause the candle to burn faster and unevenly.

Use a Candle Snuffer: Instead of blowing out the candle, snuff it out using a candle snuffer. Blowing can accelerate burning by producing smoke and disturbing the candle. Snuffing the candle keeps the wax intact and reduces wasteful loss.

Burn in Long, Continuous Sessions: Beeswax candles tend to perform best when burned for longer durations. Rather than burning them for short periods, try to allow the candle to burn for at least 2-3 hours each time. This helps prevent tunneling and promotes an even burn.

Avoid Overburning: While lighting the candle for extended periods of time is advantageous, it’s crucial to avoid overburning. When the candle has burned for the suggested amount of time or the manufacturer’s maximum safe burn period, put it out.

Optimal Room Temperature: Beeswax candles burn most efficiently in a room with a moderate temperature. Extremely hot or cold environments can affect the burn time and overall performance of the candle.

Choose Quality Candles: Ensure you purchase beeswax candles from reputable sources that use 100% pure beeswax. Some commercial candles may contain blends or additives that can impact their durability.

Store Properly: Store beeswax candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause the wax to soften or discolor, affecting its burn time.

An Eco-Friendly Option

Compared to other forms of candles, beeswax candles are typically seen as a sustainable option with a reduced impact on the environment. Why beeswax candles are frequently seen as an environmentally beneficial choice is summarised as follows:

Renewable Resource: Bees naturally make beeswax when they construct honeycombs. Since bees continually generate beeswax as a natural component of their life cycle, it is a sustainable resource. Bee populations are not harmed by ethical beekeeping procedures, which guarantee the sustainability of beeswax production.

Biodegradable: Beeswax is a biodegradable material, meaning it can naturally break down over time without leaving harmful residues in the environment. When you burn a beeswax candle, any leftover wax can easily decompose and integrate back into the ecosystem.

Non-Toxic: Beeswax candles are free from the harmful toxins and pollutants typically associated with paraffin candles, which are derived from petroleum. Burning beeswax candles does not release chemicals that can negatively impact indoor air quality or contribute to health issues.

Minimal Processing: Beeswax candles require minimal processing compared to other candle types. After harvesting the wax from the beehives, it can be melted, filtered, and molded into candle shapes. This simple production process helps reduce energy consumption and overall environmental impact.

Support for Beekeeping: Beeswax candles can help promote sustainable beekeeping methods. Bees are essential for pollination, which helps maintain the diversity and health of ecosystems. You may help indirectly support the survival of bees and the vital work they undertake by buying beeswax candles.

Reduced Carbon Footprint: Beeswax candles have a lower carbon footprint compared to candles made from non-renewable resources like paraffin or soy wax. The production and transportation of beeswax candles typically involve fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Conclusion

Beeswax candles are known for their long burning times, to sum up. These candles often burn more slowly and last longer than other types of candles because beeswax has a higher melting point than other materials. Their warm light and delicate scent may be enjoyed for a longer period of time because of their outstanding endurance. 

It’s crucial to remember that a number of variables, like wick size, airflow, and appropriate candle maintenance, can affect the actual burning time. Beeswax candles may be made to last as long as possible by using the proper ideas and procedures, thus improving their value as a long-lasting and environmentally friendly option for ambient lighting.