Can You Melt Paraffin Wax For Candles?

Paraffin wax is a soft, colorless, solid wax derived from petroleum, coal or oil shale^[1]. It consists of a mixture of hydrocarbon molecules containing between 20 and 40 carbon atoms. Paraffin wax is commonly used to make candles, as it meets the technical requirements for candle making. It has a relatively low melting point and needs to be hard enough to hold its shape when solid.^[2]

Paraffin wax works well for candle making because it burns slowly and evenly. The wax melts at temperatures between 47°C and 64°C making it easy to melt for candle production. Paraffin burns cleanly, produces minimal soot, and is inexpensive. Overall, paraffin wax is the most popular type of wax for making candles.

Melting Points

Paraffin wax has a melting point between about 46 and 68°C (115 and 154°F), according to Wikipedia. The melting point depends on the type of paraffin wax and can vary based on the oil used to produce it.

For candle making, the ideal melting point is between 54-57°C (130-135°F) according to most candle makers. This allows the wax to melt at normal room temperature when burning the candle, while still retaining its shape and not melting during storage and shipping.

If the melting point is too low, the candle will not hold its shape and can become misshapen. If too high, the wax may not melt properly when burning and the candle may tunnel or not burn evenly. Most standard paraffin wax candles are formulated to have a melting point in the ideal 54-57°C range.

The melting point of paraffin wax can be adjusted by mixing it with other waxes or additives. For example, mixing in a small amount of microcrystalline wax or beeswax can raise the melting point. Stearic acid or vybar can lower it. Candle makers will often customize the wax blend to achieve their preferred melting range.

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paraffin_wax

## Melting Methods

There are a few common methods for melting paraffin wax for candle making:

Stovetop

One of the most popular methods is using a stovetop and pot to melt the wax. Be sure to use a pot that is dedicated for candle making, as wax can be difficult to fully remove once melted. Add wax chunks to the pot, then heat on low, stirring frequently as the wax melts. Use a thermometer and heat the wax to 185-200°F to fully melt it. Don’t let the wax go above 200°F, as overheating can cause issues with wicking and scent throw. Monitor the temperature closely on the stovetop.[1]

Double Boiler

A double boiler setup can help prevent wax from overheating. This involves placing the wax in a heat-safe container set over a pot of simmering water. The steam from the water gently heats the wax until melted. Keep the water at a low simmer and stir the wax occasionally. A double boiler keeps temperatures even. However, it can take longer to fully melt all the wax compared to direct stovetop heat.[2]

Microwave

A microwave can quickly melt wax in minutes. Use short 1-minute bursts at 50% power, stirring between intervals. This prevents uneven hot spots. Heat until the wax reaches 185-200°F. Be very careful, as wax can easily overheat in the microwave. Monitor temperature closely and don’t microwave for too long at once.[1]

Melting Tips

When melting paraffin wax, it’s important to use low heat and stir frequently to prevent scorching or burning the wax. According to How to Melt Candle Wax | Step by Step Guide, heating the wax slowly and gradually is the best approach. Paraffin wax melts at temperatures between 95°F and 145°F, so a low simmer on the stove or a double boiler works well.

Make sure to stir the wax often, at least every 5-10 minutes. This helps distribute the heat evenly and prevent hot spots. Stirring regularly prevents the wax from scorching on the bottom of the pan. Use a silicone spatula or wooden spoon to stir gently.

It’s also a good idea to melt paraffin wax in stages, according to Easy Ways to Melt Paraffin Wax: 9 Steps (with Pictures). Start by melting a portion of the wax until fully liquid. Then add more solid wax a bit at a time, allowing each addition to fully melt before adding more. This gradual process allows you to more carefully control the temperature.

By using low heat, stirring frequently, and melting in stages, you can smoothly liquefy paraffin wax for candle making without any burned or scorched wax.

Adding Color

When adding color to paraffin wax, it’s important to add the dye at the right time. Oil-based dyes should be added when the wax is completely melted and still hot. Wax-based dyes can be added when the wax is just melted or even as the wax starts to cool. Adding dyes too early can cause uneven coloring, while adding them too late may lead to poor color dispersion. This source recommends using oil-based dyes for the best, most vibrant colors in paraffin wax.

Oil-based dyes will blend into the wax smoothly and evenly for a consistent color throughout the candle. Wax-based dyes may give a mottled effect. When deciding on dye type, consider the finished look you want for your colored wax. Testing out samples first can help perfect your ideal coloring technique.

Adding Scent

One of the keys to adding fragrance to candle wax is knowing when to add the scent. For paraffin wax, it’s best to add fragrance when the temperature reaches 200-205°F. With soy wax, add fragrance around 180-185°F. These temperatures allow the fragrance oil to fully incorporate into the melted wax before it starts to cool and harden. Adding fragrance at too low of a temperature can cause the scent molecules to get trapped in the wax, leading to poor scent throw. https://lonestarcandlesupply.com/dos-and-donts-of-candle-making/

In terms of how much fragrance oil to use, a general guideline is 1 ounce per pound of wax. However, some waxes can hold more or less scent. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and test different scent loads to find the ideal amount for your candle recipe. Start on the lighter side, around 5-7% fragrance, and increase incrementally until you reach the desired fragrance intensity. Too much fragrance can lead to issues like poor scent throw, acceleration, frosting, and sweating. https://lonestarcandlesupply.com/measuring-add-fragrance-to-wax/

Preventing Soot

One of the key factors in preventing soot from paraffin candles is proper wick sizing. According to The Candle Company, using a wick that is too large or too small for the diameter of the candle can cause excess soot. They recommend checking the wick guidelines for the candle’s diameter and adjusting the wick size up or down if needed to find the optimal burn.

Another important tip is to trim candle wicks before each lighting, which helps control the size of the flame. Experts recommend trimming wicks to 1/4″ before lighting them for the first time. After that, trim the wick down to 1/8″ before each subsequent burn to maintain an appropriate flame height. This helps prevent soot by not allowing the wick to produce overly large flames or mushroom tops (Source 1).

Finally, curing a new candle properly can help minimize soot. Let candles cure for at least 48 hours before burning to allow the wax to settle and stabilize. Burn candles for at least 2 hours the first 2-3 times to create an initial melt pool. This helps the wax melt more evenly during subsequent burns, reducing issues like tunneling that can lead to excess soot (Source 2).

Safety

When melting paraffin wax, proper ventilation is crucial to allow wax vapors and potential irritants to dissipate. Open windows, use fans, or consider melting wax outdoors. Position candles/wax away from drafts or vents to prevent rapid, uneven burning. Keep wax melting equipment and candles away from flammables. Never leave melting wax or burning candles unattended. Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to properly extinguish a wax or candle fire – never use water on wax. Instead use baking soda, sand, or a fire blanket to smother the flames. Store candles in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Follow all manufacturer safety warnings.

To prevent burns, use care when handling hot wax, candle-making equipment, and lit candles. Always use potholders and candle holders. If a burn does occur, run cool water over the wound for 10-20 minutes. Avoid icing burns which can damage skin. Seek medical attention for severe or blistering burns. Practice safe candle-making procedures and never let children handle hot wax. Proper handling and storage of wax can prevent accidents.

Reusing Wax

When reusing wax from old candles, it’s important to properly strain and remelt the wax to remove impurities. Here are some tips for reusing candle wax:

Start by removing any wicks and extinguishing the flame. Allow the wax to fully harden before attempting to remove it from the container. Gently heat the candle container to loosen the wax and pour it into a heat safe bowl or pot.Source

Place a fine mesh strainer over the wax container. Cheesecloth or a coffee filter also work well for straining. As the wax melts, impurities like wick fragments and dust will be caught in the strainer.Source

Heat the wax slowly and gently, stopping before it reaches its flash point temperature of 400°F. Constantly stir and maintain a temperature between 180°F – 200°F. The wax should fully liquify with no solid pieces remaining. Allow the wax to cool slightly before pouring into molds or jars.

Conclusion

In summary, there are a few key steps to follow when melting paraffin wax for candle making:

• Use a double boiler or makeshift double boiler to gently melt the wax at temperatures between 130 to 185°F.
• Add dyes and scents according to package directions, usually 1-2% of wax weight.
• Stir frequently and do not leave melting wax unattended.
• Maintain proper ventilation to prevent build up of vapors.
• Pour wax into molds or containers at temperatures no higher than 185°F.
• Allow candles to cure 24-48 hours before use.

By following these simple steps for melting paraffin wax safely and efficiently, you’ll be ready to craft beautiful and aromatic candles in no time.