Choosing the Right Candle Wax: A Comparison of Popular Wax Types

When you're shopping for the perfect candle, it's easy to focus on the fragrance — but have you ever wondered what your candle is actually made of? The type of wax plays a huge role in how a candle performs, how cleanly it burns, and how safe it is for your space.

From soy to beeswax, paraffin, and coconut wax, each has its own pros, cons, and ideal use. In this guide, we’re breaking down the most common types of candle wax so you can make a choice that aligns with your home, values, and lifestyle.

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Why Wax Type Matters

Candle wax affects:

• Burn time

• Soot and smoke output

• Scent throw

• Environmental impact

• Price

Understanding the differences helps you choose a candle that’s better for your health, your home, and the planet.

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1. Soy Wax

Best for: Clean, everyday candles with strong scent throw

Soy wax is a natural, renewable wax made from soybean oil. It's one of the most popular alternatives to paraffin and is a favorite in clean candle brands (including us at Midwest Glow).

Pros:

• Clean burning with minimal soot

• Excellent for holding and releasing fragrance

• Affordable and widely available

• Vegan and biodegradable

Cons:

• Can frost or crack in appearance

• Slightly softer than other waxes, which can impact durability in high heat

Midwest Glow uses 100% soy wax for a clean, safe burn with excellent scent performance.

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2. Beeswax

Best for: All-natural, unscented, or luxury minimalist candles

Beeswax is produced by honeybees and has been used in candles for centuries. It burns beautifully without any additives and even helps purify the air.

Pros:

• Naturally sweet, honey-like scent

• Very slow-burning

• Little to no smoke

• Naturally cleans the air by releasing negative ions

Cons:

• More expensive

• Not vegan

• Less effective at throwing added fragrance

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3. Paraffin Wax

Best for: Bold, heavily scented candles on a budget

Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct and has long been used in commercial candles. It’s inexpensive and has a strong scent throw — but it comes with concerns around health and sustainability.

Pros:

• Strong scent throw

• Very affordable

• Versatile and easy to work with

Cons:

• Derived from fossil fuels

• Produces soot and potentially toxic byproducts when burned

• Non-renewable and non-biodegradable

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4. Coconut Wax

Best for: Luxe, sustainable candles with a creamy burn

Coconut wax is made from the cold-pressed oil of coconut meat. It’s a rising star in the candle world for its clean burn, excellent scent throw, and eco-friendly profile.

Pros:

• Ultra-clean, slow burn

• Great scent throw

• Natural and sustainable

• Minimal soot

Cons:

• More expensive

• Often blended with other waxes for stability

• Less common, which can drive up cost

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At a Glance: Wax Comparison Chart