Which Candles Burn Longer: Wax or Tallow?

The choice between wax and tallow candles is often guided by factors such as burn time, cost, and the environmental impact. In general, candles made from wax—especially paraffin and beeswax—tend to burn longer than tallow candles. Let’s explore the chemical composition and burning characteristics of both types of candles to understand why.

Wax Candles: A Long-lasting Choice

Wax candles, including paraffin and beeswax, are favored for their longer burn times and cleaner burning properties. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is commonly used and burns efficiently, providing a steady flame and a longer burn time. It is derived from petroleum and is much less expensive than beeswax. Paraffin candles can have a lifespan of 35 to 40 hours for candles of the same size.

Paraffin wax is a popular choice due to its affordability and consistent performance, making it a go-to option for households and businesses alike.

Beeswax

Beeswax candles burn longer and produce less soot compared to paraffin candles. They also have a pleasant, natural scent. Beeswax candles can burn for 50 to 80 hours, making them a longer-lasting alternative.

While beeswax is more expensive and harder to find, its clean burn and superior quality make it a preferred choice for those looking for a premium experience.

Tallow Candles: A Historical Choice with Challenges

While tallow candles were commonly used before the widespread availability of commercial wax candles, they have several drawbacks that have led to decreased popularity.

Animal Fat and Its Drawbacks

Tallow candles burn slowly but produce an unpleasant odor when burning and emit more smoke compared to wax candles. The animal fat in tallow candles melts quickly, requiring frequent trimming of the wicks to maintain combustion. The manufacturing process is environmentally unfriendly and less sustainable compared to modern wax production methods.

While tallow can still provide a longer burn time than wax candles, the issues with odor, smoke, and maintenance have led to a decline in its use. Modern production and consumer preferences drive the preference towards cleaner-burning candles made from wax.

The Rise of Soy and Its Impact on Candles

The first step in choosing the right candle is understanding the type of wax used. Soy wax reigns supreme in the world of eco-friendly and long-lasting candles.

Soy Wax

Soy wax is a sustainable and renewable resource, derived from soybeans. It burns slower than paraffin wax, providing a longer burn time. Soy wax candles can have a lifespan of 50 to 80 hours, depending on the size and composition of the candle.

While soy wax is more expensive than paraffin, its environmental benefits and longer burn time make it a popular choice among consumers and environmental advocates.

Conclusion

When it comes to candle burning time, wax candles—especially those made from beeswax or soy—outperform tallow candles. Factors such as the type of wax, size, and quality of the wick play a significant role in determining the burn time of a candle. While tallow candles once dominated the market, the drawbacks associated with them have led to a decline in their popularity. Nowadays, wax candles are the preferred choice for their longer burn times and cleaner burn properties.

Key Takeaways:

Wax candles (especially paraffin and beeswax) burn longer than tallow candles. Tallow candles, while offering a longer burn time, produce unpleasant odors and emit more smoke, leading to their decline in popularity. Soy wax candles are a sustainable and long-lasting alternative, making them a preferred choice for those seeking eco-friendliness and extended burn time.