Candles emit a warm glow and subtle scent while creating ambiance in a room. With so many types and styles available, there's a candle for every occasion.
Types of candles
Candles can be made from different materials:
Paraffin candles: A by-product of petroleum, paraffin is the most common candle wax. Paraffin candles are affordable, non-toxic and burn well.
Soy candles: Natural soy wax candles are growing in popularity. Created from soybean oil, this clean-burning wax melts slowly, resulting in a long-lasting candle.
Beeswax candles: Naturally scented eco-friendly beeswax burns strong and bright while purifying the air, a benefit to asthma and allergy sufferers.
Gel candles: The wax used to make gel candles is very slow burning and long lasting. It has a clear appearance, which adds an attractive glow, and its thick consistency is perfect for suspending decorative items.
LED candles: You’d be forgiven for mistaking these flameless candles for the real thing. Designed to look like regular candles, they light up with LED bulbs instead of actual flames. The result is a warm glow, minus any potential fire hazards.
Candle styles
Choose the right style of candle to suit your needs:
Pillar candles: Pillar candles tend to be free-standing. Although pillar candles are typically cylindrical like pillars, they can come in all shapes and sizes.
Taper candles: When you think traditional candles, you're likely thinking of tapers. Perfect for setting the mood in a dining room, these tall, thin candles are often used in candlesticks.
Votive candles: Also known as prayer candles, votive candles are small and fragrant. Used in many homes and religious settings, votives are often housed in small candle holders.
Tea light candles: A tea light candle sits in a thin cup because it liquefies when lit. Small and circular, these candles can be placed in candle holders or used alongside other tea lights.
Novelty candles: Novelty candles come in all shapes and designs, from floating candles to heart-shaped candles, battery-operated candles and more.
Factors to consider when buying candles
- Candle colour and size: Candles have come a long way from traditional white tapers. You'll find candles in all colours and sizes to enhance or complement your décor.
- Wick type: Braided cotton wicks are most common, keeping them short helps candles last longer and burn cleaner.
- Burn time: Small candles like tea lights won’t burn as long, but they’re affordable. Beeswax candles are more costly, but won't need replacing as often.
- Fragrance: There are scented candles to suit every taste. When trying a new scent, consider buying a small candle first before committing to a more substantial one.
Whether you use candles in your home on a daily basis or you're looking to create a mood for a special celebration, your options are plentiful. Pick your scent, colour, size and shape and enjoy the warmth and benefits of candles.
