Scented Candle Lexicon: Understanding the Key Terms

At PUNKS & PEACOCKS, we believe in empowering our customers with knowledge about our products. Whether you're a candle connoisseur or new to the world of scented candles, understanding the terminology can enhance your appreciation and ensure you choose the perfect candle for your space. This blog post demystifies common scented candle terms, helping you navigate this fragrant world with confidence.

1. Wax Types

Paraffin Wax
A petroleum by-product that is the most common wax used in candle making. It's praised for its excellent scent throw but scrutinized for its environmental impact.

Soy Wax
Made from soybean oil, this vegetable wax is favored for its clean burn and eco-friendly properties. It burns slower and cooler, reducing the likelihood of sooting.

Beeswax
A natural wax produced by honey bees, known for its slow-burning properties and subtly sweet natural fragrance. It purifies the air by releasing negative ions when burned.

Coconut Wax
Derived from coconut oil, this wax is valued for its clean burn and excellent fragrance-holding capabilities. It's often blended with other waxes to enhance its qualities.

Palm Wax
Made from palm oil, this wax is notable for its unique crystalline patterns in the wax. However, its environmental impact is controversial due to concerns about deforestation.

2. Wick Types

Cotton Wick
The most common type of wick, made from braided cotton. It's known for its consistency and versatility in different wax types.

Wood Wick
Crafted from wood, this wick type creates a crackling sound reminiscent of a fireplace. It offers a unique aesthetic and robust flame.

Braided Wick
Typically made from cotton or linen, braided wicks are designed to curl as they burn, minimizing ash and mushrooming.

3. Candle Terms

Scent Throw
Refers to how well a candle releases its fragrance into the air. It can be categorized as either "cold throw," which is the release of scent when the candle is unlit, or "hot throw," when the candle is burning.

Tunneling
Occurs when the candle burns down the center, leaving a ring of un-melted wax along the sides of the container. Proper burning and wick maintenance can prevent this.

Frosting
A common effect in soy wax candles where a white, crystal-like layer forms on the surface of the wax. It's purely cosmetic and does not affect the burn quality.

Mushrooming
Refers to the carbon build-up on the wick's tip, which can happen if the wick is too long or the candle burns too long. Regular wick trimming is recommended to avoid this.

Curing
The process by which a candle's fragrance oils bind to the wax after being poured. Proper curing, typically lasting a few days to weeks, can significantly enhance the scent throw.

Conclusion

Understanding scented candle terminology not only aids in making informed purchases but also enhances your candle usage experience, ensuring you get the most out of each candle. At PUNKS & PEACOCKS, we're dedicated to providing not just beautifully scented candles but also the knowledge you need to fully enjoy them. Whether you're choosing a candle for its aesthetic, scent, or burn time, knowing these terms will help guide your decision.