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What is paraffin wax?

Paraffin wax is a versatile and popular material that has been widely used in the candle making industry for many years. Made from petroleum, it is a soft, white, odorless and tasteless substance that can be easily melted and molded into different shapes. So, why is paraffin wax so commonly used in candle making? There are several reasons: Affordability: Paraffin wax is one of the most affordable and readily available materials for candle making. It is widely produced, and its low cost makes it a preferred option for many candle makers, especially those who are just starting out or looking for a budget-friendly option. Scent and Color Retention: Paraffin wax has a high melting point, which means that it is able to hold the scent and color of the candles well. This makes it an ideal option for candle makers who want their candles to have a long-lasting aroma and vibrant color. Burn Time: Paraffin wax has a long burn time, making it a cost-effective option for candle makers and consumers alike. Candles made from paraffin wax can burn for several hours, providing a long-lasting source of light and fragrance. Versatility: Paraffin wax can be easily blended with other waxes and additives to create different textures, colors and fragrances. This makes it a versatile option for candle makers who want to experiment with different candle types and styles. Paraffin wax is a popular and essential ingredient in the candle making industry. Its affordability, scent and color retention, burn time, and versatility make it an ideal choice for both candle makers and consumers. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, incorporating paraffin wax into your candle making process is sure to enhance the quality and performance of your candles.

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Can soy candles go bad?

Hey there candle enthusiasts! If you’re anything like us, you probably love the cozy ambiance that a beautifully scented candle can bring to your home. Whether it’s to set the mood for a relaxing evening or to make your space smell like a tropical paradise, candles have a way of creating the perfect atmosphere. But have you ever wondered if those soy candles tucked away in your closet can actually go bad? Well, let’s dive into this aromatic topic and find out! First off, it’s essential to understand what soy candles are made of and how they differ from their paraffin counterparts. Soy candles are crafted from soybean oil, making them a natural and eco-friendly choice. In contrast, paraffin candles are made from petroleum-based wax, which can release harmful toxins when burned. Soy candles have gained popularity in recent years because of their clean-burning properties and their ability to hold fragrances exceptionally well. So, can these soy candles go bad? The short answer is no, not really. Soy candles, when stored properly, can last a long time without losing their quality or fragrance. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your soy candles remain in tip-top shape: Storage Matters: Like many things in life, how you store your soy candles can make all the difference. To keep them in the best condition, store them in a cool, dark, and dry place. Soy candles are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, so avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold. Avoid Sunlight: Sunlight can fade the color and fragrance of your soy candles over time. To prevent this, store them away from direct sunlight or any other strong sources of light. Use It or Lose It: Soy candles are meant to be enjoyed, so don’t hoard them for years without lighting them up. Using your candles periodically not only helps maintain their fragrance but also ensures you get to savor their beauty. Trim Those Wicks: Before lighting your soy candle, trim the wick to around 1/4 inch. This helps prevent excessive smoking and ensures a clean, even burn. Patience is a Virtue: When you first light a soy candle, give it enough time to create a melt pool that reaches the edges of the container. This prevents tunneling and ensures the candle burns evenly each time you use it. Fragrance Fading: Over time, you may notice a slight weakening of the fragrance in your soy candles. This is a natural process and happens very slowly. You can always enhance the scent by using a candle warmer or adding a few drops of essential oil to the melted wax. Now that you know how to care for your soy candles, you can rest assured that they won’t go bad on you. In fact, many soy candles can remain in good condition for up to two years or even longer if stored properly. However, if you ever notice any signs of mold, discoloration, or an off-putting odor, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the candle. These are rare occurrences, but they can happen if the candle has been exposed to excessive moisture or other unfavorable conditions. Soy candles are a delightful addition to any home, offering a clean and eco-friendly way to enjoy soothing scents and create a warm atmosphere. While they don’t go bad in the traditional sense, proper storage and care can ensure that your soy candles continue to bring light and fragrance into your life for years to come. So, go ahead, light them up, and bask in the cozy glow of your favorite soy candle without a worry in the world!

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Are soy candles bad for the environment?

Soy candles are often marketed as being more environmentally friendly than traditional wax candles. However, the truth is a bit more complex. While soy candles have some environmental benefits, they also have some drawbacks. In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of soy candles to help you determine if they are the right choice for you and the environment. Pros of Soy Candles: Soybeans are a renewable resource: Soybeans are a rapidly renewable resource, meaning they can be grown and harvested quickly, reducing their impact on the environment. Biodegradable: Soy wax is biodegradable, meaning it will break down naturally in the environment over time. This is in contrast to traditional wax candles, which can contain synthetic materials that can harm the environment. Lower carbon footprint: Soybeans are grown and processed domestically, reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping. In addition, soy wax is made from a natural, non-toxic material, which reduces the overall environmental impact of soy candles. Cons of Soy Candles: Pesticides and herbicides: Soybeans are often grown using pesticides and herbicides, which can harm the environment and potentially harm human health. Land use: Growing soybeans requires large amounts of land, which can lead to deforestation and other environmental impacts. Energy use: Processing soybeans into soy wax requires significant energy inputs, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. In conclusion, while soy candles have some environmental benefits, they are not without their drawbacks. When choosing candles, it is important to consider the entire life cycle of the product, from production to disposal, to determine its overall impact on the environment. Additionally, consumers can reduce their impact by choosing candles made from domestically sourced soybeans, using environmentally friendly production methods, and disposing of used candles properly.

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How to identify a quality candle

Candles have been used for centuries for various purposes, from lighting up homes to providing relaxation and aromatherapy. With so many candle options available in the market, it can be hard to identify a quality candle. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to identify a quality candle that will provide a great experience. Scent The scent of a candle is one of the most important factors to consider when identifying a quality candle. A good candle should have a strong, pleasant scent that is not overpowering. The scent should also be consistent from the beginning to the end of the candle’s life. A quality candle should have a natural scent that does not smell artificial or chemical. When looking for scented candles, it’s essential to look for a candle that is made with essential oils or other natural fragrances. Some candles may contain synthetic fragrances that can cause headaches or allergic reactions. Wax Another factor to consider when identifying a quality candle is the wax used. A good candle should be made of high-quality wax that burns evenly and cleanly. Candles made of low-quality wax tend to burn unevenly, leaving wax residue on the sides of the container. Soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax are popular options for quality candles because they are natural, renewable, and burn cleanly. Paraffin wax is a less expensive option but is made from petroleum and can release harmful chemicals when burned.  Find out why we use only 100% soy wax in our candles via this blog post. Wick The wick of a candle is also an important factor to consider when identifying a quality candle. A good candle should have a sturdy wick that does not break or bend easily. The wick should also be made of high-quality materials that do not emit harmful toxins when burned. A quality candle should have a wick that is properly sized for the candle’s diameter, ensuring an even burn. Cotton wicks are a popular choice for quality candles because they are natural and burn cleanly.  We use both cotton & wood wicks in all our candles.  Find out the differences between the two via our blog post. Container The container of a candle is also an essential factor to consider when identifying a quality candle. A good quality candle should be poured into a container that can withstand the heat of the flame. Glass containers are a popular option for candles because they are heat-resistant and can be reused or recycled. Tin containers are also a good option for candles because they are lightweight and portable. However, be cautious of plastic containers that can melt or release harmful chemicals when heated. Price The price of a candle can also be an indicator of its quality. Quality candles are typically more expensive than low-quality candles because they are made with higher-quality ingredients and materials. However, it’s essential to remember that just because a candle is expensive does not always mean that it’s high quality. Always look for candles that are made with natural ingredients and materials and have a reputation for quality.  Check out our blog post on why are some candles expensive. In conclusion, identifying a quality candle requires attention to detail. A good candle should have a natural scent, be made of high-quality wax, have a sturdy wick, and be poured into a container that can withstand the heat of the flame. By paying attention to these factors, you can ensure that you are purchasing a candle that will provide a great experience. So the next time you’re shopping for candles, keep these tips in mind and enjoy the many benefits of a quality candle.

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Why should you use candles when playing video games?

As gamers, we all know how immersive and intense video game sessions can be. Whether it’s an action-packed adventure or a competitive multiplayer match, gaming can be a great way to unwind and escape the stresses of everyday life. But have you ever considered how adding soy wax candles to your gaming setup could enhance your gaming experience? In this blog post, we’ll explore three reasons why video games could use soy wax candles. Creating Ambiance One of the best things about soy wax candles is the ambiance they create. By lighting a few candles, you can instantly transform your gaming space into a cozy and inviting environment. This is especially important for gamers who spend long hours in front of a screen. The warm glow of the candles can help reduce eye strain and create a more relaxing atmosphere. It’s important to note that the type of candle you choose can also affect the ambiance it creates. For example, if you’re playing a game set in a tropical jungle, a candle with a fruity or floral scent can help transport you to that environment, enhancing your immersion even further. Enhancing Immersion Another reason why soy wax candles are a great addition to any gaming setup is that they can enhance immersion. Many video games are designed to be immersive experiences, and adding candles to your gaming space can help make the experience even more engaging. For example, if you’re playing a game set in a spooky haunted house, lighting a few candles can help create a creepy atmosphere that makes the game even more immersive. Additionally, candles can be used to create a specific mood or tone for different games. If you’re playing a game with a medieval setting, candles can help create a mystical atmosphere that transports you back in time. Reducing Stress Finally, soy wax candles can help reduce stress during long gaming sessions. Many gamers experience physical and mental fatigue after hours of playing, and the warm glow of candles can help alleviate some of that stress. The soothing scent of candles can also help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Some scents, like lavender or eucalyptus, are known for their calming properties and can help you unwind after a stressful day. In conclusion, soy wax candles are a versatile and beneficial addition to any gaming setup. They can create ambiance, enhance immersion, and reduce stress during long gaming sessions. The type of candle you choose can also affect the experience it creates, so consider experimenting with different scents and styles to find what works best for you. So, the next time you settle in for a gaming marathon, consider lighting a few candles to enhance your experience. You might be surprised at just how much of a difference they can make.

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How To Light Your Candle For The First Time

The First Burn Soy wax believe it or not has a memory, so it is recommended to do a “memory burn” the first time it is lit.  To do a memory burn the first time you light your candle, make sure to allow your candle to burn completely to the edge before extinguishing.  It is important to allow enough time for this to prolong the life of your candle and keep it burning great every time it’s lit. After your initial memory burn, you are free to light your candle as needed for as long as you’d like. It is recommended to let your candle burn to the edge every time, but it is recommended for your candle to reach its peak scent throw. Trimming The Wick Trimming your wick to the proper length is extremely important when lighting your candle.  A wick that is too short can quickly drown in its own wax.  A wick that is too long can burn too hot and can even become a fire hazard.  Before lighting the wick, you should remove any burned pieces from the previous burn. Wooden Wicks Wooden wicks should be trimmed to about 1/8 inch from the top of the wax surface.  The wick should be cut evenly across the top to Cotton Wicks Cotton wicks should be trimmed to about 1/4 inch from the top of the wax surface. Burning Length Your candle should not be burned for longer than 4 hours at a time.  This will keep your candle from producing an increased amount of soot. Candle Storage Your candle should be allowed to cool completely before sealing.  The candle should be closed when cool to it’s fragrance from escaping.

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Wood vs. Cotton Wicks

If you’re a true candle connoisseur you’ve dealt with all sorts of wick types and sizes, but if you’ve just discovered your passion for candles you might not know the different in candle wicks. We love creating candles with both wick types, which is why we offer both wicks on all our products.  We do feel however there are enough differences between each to warrant us covering each in detail. Cotton Wicks Chances are if you’ve ever lit a candle, it was a cotton wick.  Cotton wicks are by far the most popular wick type in the market today. Cotton wicks are made by braiding strands of cotton, then dipping the braid in wax and compressing to help hold their shape.  This creates a lower cost wick over wood and generally easier to maintain candles. Scent Throw In our experience, cotton wicks have a slightly weaker scent throw than wood.  We find this is generally because wood wicks sit lower within a candle’s wax pool and smolders while lit. Ease Of Use Cotton wick candles are much easier to use and maintain.  Cotton wicks will generally burn through anything, and will light easier than wood wick.  It is very difficult to light a wood candle with a match without coming away with singed fingers, but a cotton wick candle will light pretty much every time with a match. Cotton wick candles are actually more forgiving if they aren’t trimmed correctly.  Wood wicks are generally more finicky and particular about their length. Mushrooming With cotton wicks comes the unsightly mushroom issue.  Mushrooming is when a wick bulges out from the tip to create a mushroom shape at the top.  While this really has no affect on the candle and how it burns, it looks sloppy and odd. Wooden Wicks Wood candle wicks are mainly thought as the “premium” candle wicks, and for good reason.  These wicks are made of thin wooden slabs or wooden tubes crafted specifically for candle making.  They are generally wider than cotton wicks, and project a more pleasing aesthetic in our eyes than cotton wicks. Wood wicks are more difficult to maintain and light than cotton wicks.  With wood wicks, length matters as too long and your flame will be very large and can pose a fire hazard.  Too short and your wick will down in the candles wax pool.  Trimming your wooden wick is key.  For tips on maintain your wood wick candle refer to our How To Light Your Candle For The First Time blog post. Scent Throw The scent throw of wood wick candles is fantastic, and one of the biggest benefits of wood wicks.  This is mainly due to the fact that wood wicks need constant trimming, so they sit and burn lower in the candle’s wax pool.  This combined with the fact that they are wider overall creates a more robust scent throw than cotton wicks. The Crackle Nothing beats a wood wick’s crackle while burning.  Combine this with a good book and glass of wine and you’ll be relaxed in no time. Wood wicks give off a very distinct crackle when burning, which is why many people prefer them over cotton wick candles which are generally silent while lit. Toxin Free Being made entirely of wood, wood wicks are toxic free and cleaner burning overall.  In addition to being toxin free our wood wick supplier pledges to plant a tree with the “Trees for the Future”  organization, working to end hunger and poverty for small farmers by revitalizing degraded lands. Longer Lasting Wood wick candles can help extend your candles overall burn time by burning much slower than cotton wicks. Regardless of which wick type you choose when purchasing your candle, you can’t go wrong.  Each type has its advantages and disadvantages but as long as you care for your candle and perform a proper “First Burn” when lighting for the first time, your candle will provide a wonderful fragrance and beautiful glow for any room in your house.

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What Are The 3 Levels Of Candle Scents?

Scent is one of the most important of the 5 senses, mainly because it is the one most closely tied to our memories. How many times has a familiar fragrance transported you back to your childhood or other fond place? The main challenge when shopping for scented candles online is you are not able to smell the candle for yourself, so you have no idea how appealing a candle’s fragrance is. It can truly be a shot in the dark. Like a recipe, a fragrance can have many components inside to create a unique scent. These are commonly known as the “levels” of the scent. There are many different kinds of fragrances, which are typically categorized into families to help differentiate each type. Floral: These fragrances include any that closely resemble any type of flower (rose, lilac, lavender, etc.) Woody: Fragrances that have distinct wood and musk scents. These are generally the most powerful fragrances of all the families. Oriental: Oriental fragrances are scents they are comprised of rich and exotic scents such as amber, sandalwood and spices. Fresh: These fragrances are usually bright, clean and crisp scents like citrus, ocean breeze and bergamot. By combining fragrances from different families scents can be created in a wide array of variations and levels. This is how scent levels come into play. If you’re ever ever lit a candle and we’re hit after a few minutes with an entirely new fragrance, you’ve experienced these levels in action. The scent levels occur at different times throughout a candles burn cycle, and can change multiple times. Top Level: The top scent level is the first scent you smell, and is usually associated with the first impression you get when smelling an unlit or a a candle that has just had the wick lit. These scents are usually very sharp and distinct and include common bright scents like citrus, lemongrass, bergamot or herbal scents. These scents are also usually the first scents to disappear after a short amount of time to mellow out to the middle levels. Middle Level: Middle level fragrances are the true personality of your candle, and will start to appear almost immediately after the top notes fragrance state to disappear. Throughout the burn of your candle, these scents will stick around and then eventually subtly drift into the bottom notes. Bottom Level: The bottom or “base” level are usually the last scents to appear to our senses. They start to appear after the middle levels begin to evaporate into the air and tend to stick around for the longest amount of time. These scents are mostly comprised of the most rich and deep fragrances and are the most powerful of the 3 levels to help round out your candles fragrance. These 3 levels of fragrances help give each and every candle fragrance a distinct personality and uniqueness and can help an online candle shopper get a general idea on what to expect when they light their candle for the first time at home. All PlayerOne Candles will give a break down of the levels of scents for each of our candles to help give you an idea of the type of fragrance you’ll smell at first impression, after your candle has been lit for awhile and finally once your candle has been lit for awhile. Although we try our best to describe the fragrance each candle will have, there is no other test better than actually trying all for yourselves, which is why we offer 15% off any purchase of 3 or more candles to help you try them all!

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Why are some candles so expensive?

While scented candles can range from as low as $5 each to as expensive as $79 (yes, we’ve seen candles this pricey), you may be thinking it would be outrageous to spend more than $5 on something that sits in the corner of your room giving off light. The fact of the matter is, not all candles are created equally.  With the massive differences in wax, fragrances, containers and the way a candle is made, the low price tag isn’t always as appealing as it may seem. The Wax What makes a candle a candle aside from the wick is the wax that is used.  Surprisingly enough there are dozens of waxes that are available to candle makers, all with their own distinct tendencies when it comes to finishes, fragrance throw and burn time. Paraffin Wax Many less expensive candles use paraffin wax, which are made through a chemical process that crude oil into a wax type substance.  Because of this, this type of wax is more easily available and very cheap.  The drawback of paraffin wax is is there are various health and environmental hazards considering it is a crude oil based product. Soy Wax Soy wax is slowly becoming a more sought after wax in the premium candle space, mainly because soy (made from soy beans) is naturally a renewable resource. Soy wax also burns longer and has a much larger scent throw radius, meaning you’ll ultimately get more life and be able to burn your candle for longer than with paraffin wax. The longer burn time and better fragrance throw does come as a price since soy based candles are generally more expensive. Beeswax Beeswax is the oldest known ingredient in candle making past considering it is literally produced by bees.  It is said it takes as much as six to eight pounds of honey just to produce a pound of beeswax. Considering the amount of labor and general uniqueness of beeswax, these candles are considered the most luxurious and therefore most expensive candles on the market. All PlayerOne candles are made with 100% soy wax.  We source our wax from only USA suppliers to ensure we are supporting the American economy and small businesses throughout the country. The Fragrance Unless you are purchasing candles for their illumination, the most important of your candle journey is its fragrance.  The way a candle can transform your room from ordinary to extraordinary and uplift your spirit with its fragrance is one of the reasons why candles are such a sought after product. The same as with candle wax, fragrances are not all created equal.  While perfumes are full of oils that just plain out smell good, a candle is a mix of oils that will need to burn well as well as smell good while doing it. Fragrances can be made with either artificial scents or with essential oils.  Candles with essential oils tend to be more expensive, mainly because true essential oils are super pricey! Various essential oils also range in quality.  Cheaper candles tend to have lower quality oils, leading to a candle that may not smell as good as a candle made with higher quality ingredients. The Container Amazing looking jars, tight fitting lids and shipping materials to prevent breakage all contribute to the price of a candle.  Also let’s face it, it’s the candle that catches your eye, especially when shopping online since you can’t actually smell the candle. While it doesn’t seem so, a lot goes into the creation of that candle on your fireplace mantle.  While it seems going cheaper might be the better choice, considering premium waxes take longer to burn and have a larger scent throw radius it is not always the smartest choice when trying to stretch your candle budget.

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Do candles expire?

Have you ever purchased a candle so amazing that even the thought of burning it causes you pain?  We have some good news and bad news for you.  Fact is, candles can in fact expire, however they won’t expire in the fact that they spoil like we are used to in food items.  They will simply lose their potency and fragrance when they are smelled or finally lit. So what determines the length of time it takes for a candle to expires?  There are  many factors. Wax Used The type of wax used is probably the main determining factor in how long your candle is expected to last.  Paraffin wax for example can last almost indefinitely considering it is made out of a plastic like substance. Soy wax (which is what we use of our candles) are best burned within 1 year of purchase because it is a natural ingredient.  (Read more on why we use Soy wax from our Blog Post). Type of Fragrance The type of actual fragrance used is another big factor in how long your candle will hold its fragrance potency.  Artificial fragrances will tend to last longer since they are made of blends and multiple ingredients.  Natural fragrances blended in oils will have a shorter fragrance time frame because it’s a natural ingredient. Natural ingredients do tend to be more fragrant and potent though, so even if they do start losing their scent, it will take longer for the candle to lose it’s scent entirely. Dye Dyes used in candles come in a wide variety of strengths, shades and tints.  That said, over time a candle’s color may fade as well.  Typically, a candle that is left in sunlight or with its lid off will start to fade sooner. How to extend a candle’s lifespan: Keep candles in a cool dark place if not planning on lighting for an extended period of time. Keep out of direct sunlight Use a candle topper or seal with it’s own lid Avoid storing in places with high humidity or moisture Avoid areas that have consistent temperature changes

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