How to Choose a Mineral-Based Wax for Candle Making
Paraffin waxes and paraffin gels are intended for different candle-making applications. To select the right grade, start by identifying your manufacturing process: container candles, moulded candles or gel candles.
You should then consider the product's technical specifications, compatibility with other ingredients and the desired finished result.
What Is the Difference Between Container and Moulding Paraffin Wax?
Paraffin wax for container candles is designed to be poured directly into a suitable container, such as a glass jar. For this application, important factors include adhesion to the container walls, surface appearance after cooling and compatibility with the complete candle formulation.
Candelis offers 6214 paraffin wax, a predominantly mineral-based blend, for this application.
Paraffin wax for moulded candles needs to allow the finished candle to be removed from its mould while retaining its shape. Hardness, shrinkage during cooling and mechanical strength are therefore important selection criteria.
5603 paraffin wax is intended for moulded candle production.
Can you use the same paraffin wax for both applications? Not necessarily. A grade formulated for container candles may not behave appropriately during demoulding. Always check the recommended application and carry out trials before using a wax for a different manufacturing process.
Hard or Soft Paraffin Gel: Which Should You Choose?
Unlike conventional solid paraffin waxes, paraffin gels can be used to create candles with a transparent or translucent appearance, depending on the formulation.
Candelis offers 39B hard paraffin gel and 21B soft paraffin gel.
How do you choose between them? The terms “hard” and “soft” describe differences in consistency, but do not, on their own, establish which product is best suited to your project. Check the recommended processing conditions, the intended container and the compatibility of the other components.
For gel candles containing decorative elements, particular attention must be paid to the suitability of those materials and their behaviour when the candle is burning.
Can You Add Fragrance to Paraffin Wax Candles?
Yes. Certain paraffin wax grades are intended for scented candle production. However, fragrance compatibility should not be assumed for every grade.
Before selecting a formulation, consult the manufacturer's recommendations and carry out trials using your chosen fragrance, fragrance concentration, wick and container.
The finished result depends on the complete candle formulation. The wax alone cannot guarantee a particular fragrance performance or burning behaviour.
What Should You Check Before Buying Paraffin Wax in Bulk?
When comparing wax grades and planning professional purchases, consider:
- Intended application: container candles, moulded candles or gel candles.
- Composition: paraffin wax, a predominantly mineral-based blend or paraffin gel.
- Thermal properties: melting point and other values provided in the technical documentation.
- Processing conditions: working temperatures, pouring and cooling.
- Compatibility: fragrances, dyes, wicks and containers.
- Packaging: product format and quantities required for your production.
Before starting a production run, test the complete formulation under your intended manufacturing conditions.
Candelis: Paraffin Wax Supplier and Wholesaler for Professionals
Since 1990, Candelis has supported independent candle makers, candle brands and industrial manufacturers in selecting raw materials suited to their production processes.
To explore other options, browse our complete range of candle-making waxes and waxes of vegetable origin.
Unsure which grade to choose or planning a bulk purchase? Contact Candelis for technical guidance or a personalised quotation.
