Home Fragrance & Candles Glossary Terms

Soy, Paraffin or Beeswax — What's the Difference in Candle Wax?

Paraffin is a petroleum-based wax that holds fragrance strongly and burns predictably, making it common in mass-market scented candles. Soy wax is a plant-based, renewable alternative that burns cooler and cleaner with less soot. Beeswax is a natural wax with a subtle honey scent and typically the longest burn time of the three, but usually the most expensive.

What Does Burn Time Mean for Candles?

Burn time is the manufacturer's estimated total number of hours a candle will burn before it's spent, and it depends on wax type, wick size and jar diameter rather than scent strength. Letting a candle burn long enough on first use for the wax to melt evenly across its full surface, and trimming the wick between burns, helps a candle reach closer to its stated burn time.

What is Living room?

Within the context of this site, "Living room" refers to the main reception area within a UK home – typically where people spend time relaxing and entertaining. When you see it listed as a use case for a product, it indicates suitability for placement and regular use in that primary social space. Consider its size and weight; larger items require more floor space. Materials should be durable enough to withstand everyday handling and potential knocks, with maintenance requirements reflecting the room's typical usage – often involving dusting or occasional cleaning.

What is Ceramic?

Ceramic refers to a material made by firing clay at high temperatures. In the context of home & garden items like pots and wax burners, it describes objects crafted from materials that have undergone this process. Ceramic is generally known for its durability and resistance to heat – making it suitable for holding hot wax or being exposed to varying weather conditions. It’s often denser than other materials but can still be relatively lightweight depending on the specific formulation used. Consider that ceramic items might require gentle cleaning with a damp cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners.