Candles can be made from various materials, but the most common components are wax and a wick. Here's a breakdown of what candles are typically made of:

• Wax: Wax is the primary material in candles, and it provides the fuel for the candle's flame. There are several types of wax used in candle making, including:
  • Paraffin Wax: This is a byproduct of petroleum refining and is one of the most commonly used candle waxes.
  • Soy Wax: Made from soybean oil, it is a popular choice for those seeking a more eco-friendly and renewable option.
  • Beeswax: Produced by bees, beeswax candles are known for their natural scent and clean-burning properties.
  • Palm Wax: Derived from palm oil, it's often used in container candles.
  • Gel Wax: A transparent wax that is used for creating decorative and transparent candles.
• Wick: The wick is the string-like structure that extends through the center of the candle. It serves as a pathway for the melted wax to travel up to the flame, where it vaporizes and burns. Wicks can be made of various materials like cotton, wood, or hemp, and their size and composition can affect the candle's burn time and behavior.
• Fragrance (optional): Many candles are scented with fragrances or essential oils to produce a pleasant aroma when burned. The scent is typically added to the wax during the candle-making process.
• Dyes (optional): If you want colored candles, dyes or pigments can be added to the wax to achieve the desired color.
• Additives (optional): Candle makers may incorporate additives like stearic acid to help with the candle's texture, stability, or burn characteristics.
• Container (for container candles): In the case of container candles, a glass or metal container is used to hold the wax as it burns.

The choice of materials can vary depending on the type of candle being made, its intended purpose, and the preferences of the candle maker. Different waxes and additives can result in candles with varying burn times, scents, and appearances.

Yes, there are different types of candle wax, each with its unique characteristics. The choice of wax can affect the candle's appearance, burn time, scent throw, and eco-friendliness. Here are some of the most common types of candle wax:

• Paraffin Wax: Paraffin wax is one of the most widely used candle waxes. It's derived from petroleum, making it an economical choice. Paraffin candles are known for their wide range of colors and strong scent throw. However, some people prefer alternative waxes due to environmental concerns.
• Soy Wax: Soy wax is made from soybean oil and is a popular choice for eco-conscious consumers. It's biodegradable, renewable, and produces minimal soot. Soy candles burn cleanly and evenly. They are often used for container candles.
• Beeswax: Beeswax is a natural wax produced by bees. Beeswax candles are known for their natural honey-like scent and clean-burning properties. They emit negative ions, which can help improve air quality. Beeswax is considered a premium wax but can be more expensive than other options.
• Palm Wax: Palm wax is derived from palm oil. It's often used in container candles and is known for its crystalline appearance when the candle cools. Sustainable sourcing of palm oil is a concern, so some consumers seek certified sustainable palm wax.
• Gel Wax: Gel wax is transparent and is often used to create decorative or themed candles. It can embed objects or designs within the wax. Gel candles have a unique visual appeal but tend to have a shorter burn time compared to other waxes.
• Vegetable-Based Waxes: In addition to soy, there are other vegetable-based waxes like coconut wax and rapeseed wax. These waxes are considered eco-friendly and are used in various candle types, including container candles and pillars.
• Parasoy Wax: Parasoy is a blend of paraffin and soy waxes. It combines the ease of use and scent throw of paraffin with the cleaner-burning qualities of soy. It's a popular choice for many candle makers.
• Bayberry Wax: Bayberry wax is derived from the bayberry bush and has a distinctive natural aroma. Traditional bayberry candles are known for their green color and are often associated with holiday traditions.
• Pillar Blends: Some waxes are specifically formulated for making pillar candles, which are freestanding candles with no container. These blends are designed to provide stability and resistance to cracking.

The choice of wax depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the candle maker and the desired qualities of the finished candle. Factors such as burn time, scent, color, and sustainability play a role in selecting the appropriate wax for a particular candle project.

Candles typically do not have a strict expiration date like perishable food items, but their quality can deteriorate over time. The shelf life of a candle largely depends on factors such as the type of wax used, storage conditions, and whether the candle is scented or not. Here are some considerations regarding the longevity of candles:

• Unscented Candles: Unscented candles made from waxes like paraffin, soy, or beeswax can last for several years, often 2-5 years or even longer, when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Over time, the color may fade, and the surface may develop a powdery or frosty appearance, but they can still burn effectively.
• Scented Candles: Scented candles, especially those with added fragrances or essential oils, may have a shorter shelf life. The fragrance can dissipate or change over time, affecting the candle's scent throw. Scented candles are typically best used within 1-2 years, although some higher-quality scents may last longer.
• Storage Conditions: Proper storage can extend a candle's lifespan. Store candles in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight. Excessive heat can cause candles to warp or melt, while direct sunlight can fade their color.
• Container Candles: Candles in containers, such as glass jars or tins, are less likely to collect dust and dirt, which can affect the appearance of the candle. They are also less prone to drying out compared to exposed pillar candles.
• Pillar Candles: Pillar candles, which are not enclosed in containers, may develop a thin layer of wax bloom (a white, powdery substance) on their surface over time. This can be wiped away to reveal the candle's original appearance.
• Quality Matters: Higher-quality candles, made with premium waxes and fragrances, tend to have a longer shelf life and maintain their scent and appearance better than lower-quality alternatives.

While candles may not "expire" in the traditional sense, they can change in appearance and scent as they age. It's a good practice to rotate your candle stock and use older candles first to enjoy them at their best. If you notice any significant changes in the candle's appearance or scent, such as excessive crumbling or a rancid odor, it may be best to discontinue use for safety and enjoyment reasons.

Trimming a candle wick is an essential step in candle maintenance to ensure a safe and efficient burn. Trimming the wick helps prevent excessive soot, uneven burning, and a too-large flame, which can lead to safety hazards. Here's how to properly trim a candle wick:

Materials Needed:

• Candle
• Wick trimmer or scissors
• A small trash container or a designated wick catcher

Steps to Trim a Candle Wick:

• Wait for the Candle to Cool: Ensure the candle has completely cooled and the wax has solidified before attempting to trim the wick. Attempting to trim a hot wick can be dangerous.
• Inspect the Wick Length: Examine the wick's length before trimming. A wick that is too long can create a larger flame and excessive soot. Ideally, you want the wick to be around 1/4 to 1/8 of an inch (about 0.6 to 0.3 cm) above the surface of the wax.
• Use a Wick Trimmer or Scissors: Wick trimmers are designed specifically for this purpose, but sharp scissors can also be used effectively. Place the trimmer or scissors just above the surface of the candle's wax.
• Trim the Wick: Gently and steadily trim the wick in a straight line. Ensure you cut it cleanly without leaving any jagged edges. It's important not to cut the wick too short; aim for the recommended 1/4 to 1/8-inch length.
• Dispose of the Trimmed Wick: Collect the trimmed wick with your trimmer or scissors and dispose of it in a designated container, trash can, or a wick catcher if your candle has one. Do not leave the trimmed wick in the candle wax, as it can lead to uneven burning.
• Center the Wick: If the wick has shifted or leaned to one side while burning, use a wick dipper or a utensil to gently reposition it in the center of the candle to ensure an even burn during the next use.
• Light the Candle: Now that you've trimmed the wick and centered it, you can safely light the candle.
• Monitor the Flame: While the candle is burning, keep an eye on the flame. A properly trimmed wick should produce a steady, small flame that doesn't flicker excessively or create soot.

By regularly trimming the wick of your candle, you can enjoy a cleaner and more efficient burn, extend the life of the candle, and reduce safety risks associated with overly long wicks. It's a simple but effective step in candle care that ensures you get the most out of your candles.

Extinguishing a candle safely is important to prevent accidents and ensure the candle is fully extinguished. Here's how to do it safely:

• Use a Proper Tool: Avoid blowing out the candle, as this can cause hot wax to splatter or the wick to smolder. Instead, use a proper tool like a candle snuffer or a wick dipper.
• Candle Snuffer Method:
  • Gently place the snuffer's bell or cup over the flame.
  • Allow it to sit there for a few seconds to ensure the flame is completely extinguished.
  • Lift the snuffer away from the candle. This method helps prevent hot wax from splattering.
• Wick Dipper Method (For Container Candles):
  • Use a wick dipper or a non-flammable utensil with a long handle.
  • Gently bend the candle wick into the liquid wax using the dipper. This action extinguishes the flame.
  • Straighten the wick back up, ensuring it remains centered for the next use.
• Never Use Water to Extinguish: Do not use water to extinguish a candle, especially if it's a container candle. Water can cause the hot wax to splatter, and it may crack the glass container.
• Avoid Touching the Wick: After extinguishing the candle, avoid touching the wick or the area around it, as it may still be hot.
• Check for Any Smoking or Smoldering: After extinguishing the flame, check that there is no smoldering or smoking from the wick. If you see any, gently blow on it or use the snuffer again to ensure it's completely out.
• Keep the Area Clear: Ensure there are no flammable materials or drafts near the candle that could rekindle the flame.
• Store Matches and Lighters Safely: If you used matches or a lighter to light the candle, store them safely away from the candle and out of the reach of children.
• Never Leave a Burning Candle Unattended: Always stay in the room while the candle is lit, and never leave it burning when you leave or go to bed. It's crucial to keep a close eye on the candle to prevent accidents.
• Trim the Wick Before Relighting: Before relighting the candle, trim the wick to the recommended length (about 1/4 to 1/8 inch or 0.6 to 0.3 cm) to ensure a clean and safe burn.

Following these safety guidelines when extinguishing your candles will help prevent accidents and ensure that you can enjoy the ambiance and fragrance of your candles without risks.

Cleaning up candle wax spills can be relatively simple, depending on the size of the spill and the surface it has landed on. Here's the best way to clean up candle wax spills:

Materials Needed:

• Butter knife or a plastic card
• Paper towels or disposable cloth
• Iron and paper or a brown paper bag (for fabric spills)
• Rubbing alcohol (for residue removal, if needed)
• Mild soap and warm water (for residue removal, if needed)

Steps to Clean Up Candle Wax Spills:

• Allow the Wax to Cool: Let the spilled wax cool and solidify completely. This will make it easier to remove.
• Scrape Off Excess Wax: Use a butter knife or a plastic card to gently scrape off as much of the hardened wax as possible. Be careful not to scratch the surface underneath.
• Paper Towel or Disposable Cloth: Place a few layers of paper towels or a disposable cloth over the remaining wax.
• Apply Heat: If the wax has spilled on fabric, place a paper towel or brown paper bag over the affected area. Then, use a warm iron (set to a low heat setting) and press it over the paper towel or bag. The heat will melt the wax, causing it to be absorbed by the paper. Continue this process with fresh paper towels or bags until no more wax transfers onto them.
• Remove Residue: If there is any residual wax or a greasy stain left behind, you can use rubbing alcohol to remove it. Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently blot the stained area until it's gone. For fabric spills, wash the fabric as usual after removing the wax.
• Clean the Surface: For hard surfaces like countertops or floors, use mild soap and warm water to clean any remaining residue from the wax. Dry the area thoroughly afterward.
• Inspect for Damage: Check for any potential damage to the surface, especially if the spill occurred on wood or delicate fabrics. Depending on the material, you may need to take additional steps to repair or restore it.

Tips:

• Be patient when applying heat to remove wax from fabric. It may take several passes to completely remove the wax.
• Avoid using sharp objects that could scratch or damage surfaces when scraping off excess wax.
• Never use a high heat setting on an iron when removing wax from fabric, as it can cause damage or discoloration.
• Always use caution when handling hot irons and melted wax.
• Test rubbing alcohol in an inconspicuous area before using it to remove residue to ensure it doesn't damage the surface.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean up candle wax spills and restore surfaces to their previous condition.

Burning candles can be enjoyable and provide a cozy ambiance, but there are some health concerns associated with candle use, particularly if precautions are not taken. Here are some potential health concerns related to burning candles:

• Indoor Air Quality: One of the primary concerns with burning candles, especially scented ones, is indoor air quality. Some candles, particularly those made with paraffin wax, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other airborne pollutants when burned. These pollutants may include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and benzene. Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can have negative health effects, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, allergies, or chemical sensitivities.
• Soot Production: Poorly trimmed or excessively long candle wicks can lead to soot production. Soot particles can become airborne and may contribute to respiratory irritation and exacerbate preexisting lung conditions.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: The fragrances and essential oils used in scented candles can trigger allergies or sensitivities in some individuals. Those with fragrance sensitivities or asthma may experience symptoms such as headaches, nasal congestion, or respiratory distress when exposed to candle scents.
• Fire Safety: Improper candle use, such as leaving candles unattended or placing them near flammable materials, can lead to fire hazards and accidents. Burn injuries and property damage can result from candle-related fires.

To mitigate these health concerns and enjoy the benefits of candles safely, consider the following tips:

• Choose High-Quality Candles: Opt for candles made from cleaner-burning wax options like soy, beeswax, or vegetable-based waxes, which produce fewer indoor air pollutants. Look for candles that are labeled as non-toxic or free from harmful additives.
• Properly Trim Wicks: Keep candle wicks trimmed to about 1/4 to 1/8 inch (0.6 to 0.3 cm) to prevent excessive soot production and uneven burning.
• Ventilate: Ensure good ventilation in the room where you're burning candles to help disperse any airborne pollutants.
• Select Unscented Candles: If you're sensitive to fragrances or have respiratory issues, consider using unscented candles to avoid exposure to potentially irritating scents.
• Use Candle Accessories: Place candles in containers or holders designed to catch wax drips and prevent accidental fires. Never leave candles unattended, and keep them away from flammable objects.
• Be Mindful of Allergies: If you or someone in your household has fragrance allergies or sensitivities, avoid scented candles altogether or choose fragrance-free options.
• Follow Fire Safety Guidelines: Always adhere to basic fire safety practices when using candles, such as keeping them out of reach of children and pets, placing them on stable surfaces, and extinguishing them before leaving a room or going to sleep.

By taking these precautions and using candles responsibly, you can enjoy their warm glow and ambiance while minimizing potential health risks. It’s important to carefully choose where you purchase your candles. Not all candle companies are created equal. Many take short cuts, cut fragrance oils with unsafe ingredients to save on manufacturing costs, and much more.

At Harbor Mill Co., we were closely with our fragrance houses to formulate oils that not only meet CA Prop 65, but also International Fragrance Association (IFRA). Each of our oils are formulated for our proprietary waxes. All of our vessels meet ASTM Standards. And all of our wicks are lead and metal free, organic cotton core.

You can tackle this program at your own availability. So whether you have an hour per day spare or an hour per week, the training will be ready when you are. As with anything, the more time you can dedicate.

You can tackle this program at your own availability. So whether you have an hour per day spare or an hour per week, the training will be ready when you are. As with anything, the more time you can dedicate.