What Is The Price Of Double Boiler For Candle Making?

What is a Double Boiler?

A double boiler is a specialized piece of cookware that consists of two pots or pans stacked together. The bottom pot contains water which is heated to boiling, while the top pot sits above it to heat more gently at a more consistent temperature. The steam from the boiling water transfers heat to the top pot in a regulated way.

This makes a double boiler ideal for candle making, as it allows the wax to be melted slowly and evenly without scorching or burning. The temperature control enabled by the double boiler setup is crucial for candle making, as wax needs to be heated to a specific temp range of 150-165°F to properly liquefy and combine with dyes, fragrances, and other additives.

Key features that make a double boiler useful for candle making include the dual-chamber design for indirect heat, stainless steel or aluminum construction for even heating, and handles and pour spouts for safely transferring the melted wax to containers or molds.

Why Use a Double Boiler for Candle Making?

A double boiler is considered an essential tool for candle making because it allows melting wax at the appropriate temperatures. Direct heat can scorch wax and create smoke, but the water bath created by a double boiler gently brings the wax to an ideal melted state without overheating it (source). The indirect heat gives you more control over the entire process.

Additionally, double boilers prevent possible fires and explosions that can happen if wax gets overheated. The water acts as a buffer, absorbing excess heat and preventing the wax from combusting. This makes the process much safer overall (source). With a double boiler, you can melt wax worry-free and avoid accidentally ruining batches or causing damage.

Having a stable, constant heat source leads to higher quality candles with fewer imperfections. The double boiler allows keeping wax in the optimal temperature range for adding fragrance, coloring, and pouring. This level of temperature control is difficult to achieve through direct stovetop heating. Overall, a double boiler gives candle makers much greater control and precision during the melting and pouring stages.

Key Considerations When Buying

When shopping for a double boiler for candle making, there are several key factors to consider:

Size and Capacity

Consider the batch sizes you plan to make – smaller 1-2 quart boilers are good for testing and sampling, while larger 3-4 quart sizes allow bigger batch production. Make sure to get a boiler big enough to melt the wax volume per batch you need. According to candlemakingforums.com, a good rule of thumb is a 2 quart boiler for up to 1 pound wax batches.

Material

Stainless steel offers superior durability and longevity over aluminum options. Stainless steel is less reactive and won’t leach metals or alter wax chemistry. According to candlescience.com, an 18/8 stainless interior is ideal.

Temperature Range

Make sure the double boiler is designed for candle wax melting temperatures – around 180 to 200F. Lower temp food boilers may not withstand repeated wax melting. Per candlescience.com, a range up to 250F gives flexibility for various waxes.

Ease of Use

Look for double boilers with wide, stable bases that are easy to pour from without tipping. Lid handles or knobs help avoid burns. Pour spouts or lips allow cleaner pouring. Tight sealing lids prevent messy splatter. According to candlesupply.com, easy cleanup is also key.

Budget Options Under $50

When you’re just starting out with candle making, you may want to opt for a more affordable double boiler before investing in a more expensive model. Here are some top options under $50:

Tonsen Stainless Steel Double Boiler – This 2 quart double boiler made from stainless steel with an aluminum core is affordable at under $20. It comes with a tempered glass lid for monitoring the melting process. The simple design is easy to use but may not be as durable as pricier models.

Home Basics Stainless Steel Double Boiler – For around $25, this 2 quart option from Walmart provides stainless steel durability. The nested design saves space. However, the handle is not heat resistant.

While cheaper models get the job done, they may not distribute heat as evenly or last as long as more expensive options. Stainless steel models offer more durability than aluminum ones in this price range. Just keep in mind that handles likely won’t be heat-resistant, so you’ll need to use potholders.

Mid-Range Options $50-$150

There are several good mid-range double boiler options in the $50-$150 price range that offer improved durability and features over cheaper models:

The Vevor 2 Gallon Stainless Steel Double Boiler ($60-90) is made entirely of 304 stainless steel for excellent corrosion resistance and heat conductivity. It has higher capacity and more even heating than cheaper aluminum models.

The Sierra 2 Gallon Double Boiler Kit ($100-130) includes a stainless steel melter and a stainless steel pouring pot. The kit has precise temperature control and is designed specifically for candle making.

The NutriChef 3 Quart Double Boiler ($80-120) has an encapsulated bottom for even heat distribution. It includes a tempered glass mixing bowl and features cool touch side handles.

Mid-range models offer increased durability over cheaper options thanks to stainless steel construction. They also provide more precise temperature control and even heating for improved safety and results when making candles.

High-End Options Over $150

For professional candle makers or hobbyists who want the very best equipment, there are high-end double boilers that cost over $150. These premium models offer excellent temperature control, large capacity, and maximum durability for frequent, high-volume use.

The PW 250 LB Water Jacket Wax Melter is one of the top professional double boilers on the market. It features stainless steel construction, precise thermostatic control, and a 250 pound capacity. The temperature gauge and sight glass allow monitoring the wax temperature and level easily. At around $900, it represents a serious investment for commercial candle making operations.

Other benefits of investing in a high-end double boiler include better temperature precision for more consistent results, larger capacity tanks to melt greater amounts of wax at once, and highly durable builds that can withstand constant heating and cleaning. While expensive, for candle makers who want reliable equipment built to last through years of heavy use, the premium double boilers offer capabilities well worth the price.

Key Brands and Manufacturers

When looking for a quality double boiler for candle making, there are a few leading brands that stand out:

Presto – Known for their affordable, durable stainless steel double boilers in various sizes. Great for beginners.

Cierra Candles – Offers high-quality stainless steel double boilers designed specifically for candle making. Comes with thermometer and pouring spout.

Farberware – Trusted kitchenware brand that makes an aluminum double boiler ideal for heating candle wax. Budget-friendly option.

Beka – Specializes in stainless steel cookware and makes a bain marie double boiler perfect for candle makers.

Revere – Known for their heavy-duty copper core double boilers that evenly distribute heat. Great for experienced candle making.

These leading brands offer durability, even heat distribution, and options at various price points. Look for double boilers designed specifically for candle making for best results.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

Proper cleaning and maintenance of your double boiler is important for keeping it in good working condition. Here are some tips:

After each use, allow the double boiler to cool completely before cleaning. Then wipe out any excess wax inside with a paper towel or soft cloth (source: https://www.scandinaviancandle.com/blogs/faq/how-to-clean-the-candle-making-equipment). You can wash the double boiler gently with hot water and mild soap. Make sure to rinse thoroughly.

For removing any candle scents or difficult wax residue, fill the bottom pot with water and a bit of baking soda and bring it to a simmer. Place the top pot inside and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. This should loosen any remaining wax, allowing you to wipe it away with a soft cloth or sponge.

After cleaning, be sure to thoroughly dry all parts of the double boiler before storing. Leaving moisture can lead to corrosion over time. Store the double boiler in a cool, dry place when not in use.

With proper care after each use, your double boiler should provide many years of reliable service for candle making!

Safety Tips

Candle making with a double boiler requires careful attention to safety to avoid burns and other injuries. Here are some key tips:

Use potholders or oven mitts when handling the double boiler, as the exterior can get very hot. According to Armatage Candle Company, the double boiler “gets extremely hot while melting wax so use caution” (source).

Ensure the double boiler is on a stable, level surface and secure the top pot. Sierra Candles recommends avoiding picking up or moving the double boiler when it contains hot wax to prevent spilling and burns (source).

Keep children and pets away from the double boiler during use. The wax can reach temperatures over 180°F and poses a serious burn risk.

Allow adequate ventilation in your workspace to dissipate steam from the double boiler.

Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs when melting wax to minimize risk of burns if wax spatters.

Unplug the double boiler as soon as you are done using it and allow it to fully cool before handling, cleaning or storing.

Final Takeaways

When searching for the best double boiler for candle making, keep the following key points in mind:

• Choose a double boiler made from stainless steel or glass to avoid reactions with wax.
• Look for a double boiler with a lid and pouring spout for easy pouring.
• Consider your budget, as prices range from under $50 to over $150.
• Well-known brands like Beeswax, Joyce Chen, and Excelsteel are reliable options.
• Take steps to properly maintain your double boiler for longevity.
• Always exercise caution when handling hot wax to avoid burns.

The right double boiler takes the guesswork out of melting wax at the proper temperature for candle making. Focus on models with helpful design features in your budget range from reputable brands. With the proper use and care, a good double boiler can serve your candle making needs for many years.