Wondering how to melt wax for candles? When it comes to wax melting there are a few different options to choose from. Here, we'll talk you through two of the most popular methods for melting candle wax at home - the double boiler and the microwave method.
How to melt wax for candles: The Double Boiler
The most popular way to melt wax at home is using a double boiler. Using this method, simply uses the steam as a heat source to melt your wax. The steam is generated between the two pans, or bowl and pan, from the hot water in the bottom pan. See below on how to make your own double boiler at home and how to melt wax in a double boiler:
1. Fill a large pan with water (around half full) and place it on your hob/hotplate to heat.
2. Place yourwax in a smaller pan, glass bowl, or pouring jug.
3. Put your smaller pan, glass bowl or pouring jug in the large pan and heat over medium heat until your wax has melted. Do not let your wax exceed 80°C.
4. Use athermometer to monitor the temperature of your war. When your wax reaches 70°C add your colour (if desired).
5. Remove your wax from the heat and let cool to 65°C. You can now add your chosen fragrance if desired. Stir gently for 1 minute.
6. Your wax is now ready to pour into your chosen container.
Do not leave your double boiler unattended at any time. Any pan you used for melting wax should not be used for food preparation.
How to melt wax for candles: The Microwave
Another way to melt candle wax at home is in the microwave. Some people choose this method as they can melt the wax faster than if they were using a double boiler.
1. Pour yourwax into a microwavable container. (Ceramic and glass dishes are usually fine, but you should still check for "microwave-safe" or "heatproof" labels on their packaging.)
2. Place your bowl/jug ofwax in the microwave and heat for 1 minute at a time, monitoring the temperature until it reaches 80°C. (Do not let your wax exceed 80°C).
3. Continue heating yourwax in 2-minute intervals until it's fully melted.
4. When yourwax reaches 80°C, remove from microwave and place on a safe, even, covered surface.
5. Use yourthermometer to ensure thewax is 70°C before adding yourcolourandfragrance oil.
6. Add your desired amount ofcolour to the meltedwax (we recommend 0.2%) at 70°C.
7. And add your fragrance oil at 70°C (we recommend using 6% - 10% - fragrance oil should be weighed in grams on your scales).
8. Give your wax a good stir, ensuring thecolour andfragrance are blended with the wax.
9. Yourwax is now ready to pour into your chosen container.
Keep a careful watch while heating wax in the microwave and do not walk away. Be careful not to overheat the wax once it liquifies.
What temperature does candle wax melt?
The temperature at which candle wax will melt differs depending on the type of wax you're using. Soy wax will melt from around 49-82°C, while paraffin wax has a slightly lower melting point, at 46-68°C. Beeswax melts between 62-65°C, and gel wax has a higher melting point, at 82°C.
How to melt leftover candle wax
The above methods are ideal if you're buying candle wax to make your own candles at home, but they can also be adapted for melting leftover candle wax.
For candles in glass jars, you can use the double boiler method and place the jar in water until it liquifies. Once the wax is liquid, it can be poured into a mould to create homemade wax melts.
Be careful melting leftover candle wax in a microwave, as the container may not be microwave safe. You should scoop out the leftover wax and decant it into a microwave safe container, and then follow the method detailed above.
Candles are wonderful ways to fragrance your home, both methods work for repurposing your wax but if you are working to a bigger scale you can also purchase larger capacity melters to help melt your wax.
As a seasoned candle-making enthusiast with extensive hands-on experience, I've delved deep into the art and science of melting wax for candles. Crafting candles is not just a hobby for me; it's a passion that has led me to explore various techniques and methods to achieve the perfect melt for different types of wax. Allow me to guide you through the nuances of the double boiler and microwave methods, shedding light on the key concepts involved.
The Double Boiler Method:
The double boiler method is a classic and widely favored technique for melting wax. This approach relies on steam as a gentle heat source to ensure a controlled and even melt. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
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Water Heating: Begin by filling a large pan with water, placing it on the hob or hotplate to heat. The steam generated between the two pans facilitates the wax melting process.
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Wax Placement: Place your wax in a smaller pan, glass bowl, or pouring jug. This container is then positioned in the large pan over medium heat until the wax reaches the desired melting point.
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Temperature Monitoring: Use a thermometer to closely monitor the wax temperature, ensuring it does not exceed 80°C. Adding color and fragrance follows at specific temperature points to achieve optimal results.
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Color and Fragrance Addition: Introduce color to your wax at 70°C, and once removed from heat, let it cool slightly before adding fragrance at 65°C. A gentle stir blends the elements seamlessly.
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Pouring: Your wax is now ready to be poured into your chosen container. Always exercise caution and never leave the double boiler unattended.
The Microwave Method:
For those seeking a faster alternative, the microwave method offers a convenient way to melt wax. Here's a concise guide:
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Container Selection: Choose a microwavable container for your wax. Ceramic and glass dishes work well, but always check for "microwave-safe" or "heatproof" labels.
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Incremental Heating: Heat your wax in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, monitoring the temperature until it reaches 80°C. Avoid surpassing this temperature to prevent over-heating.
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Color and Fragrance Incorporation: Similar to the double boiler method, add color at 70°C and fragrance at 65°C. Stirring ensures a hom*ogeneous blend.
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Pouring: Once all components are integrated, your wax is ready to be poured into the chosen container. Vigilance during the microwave heating process is crucial to prevent overheating.
Candle Wax Melting Temperatures:
Understanding the melting points of different waxes is fundamental to successful candle making:
- Soy Wax: Melts between 49-82°C.
- Paraffin Wax: Melting point ranges from 46-68°C.
- Beeswax: Melts between 62-65°C.
- Gel Wax: Has a higher melting point at 82°C.
How to Melt Leftover Candle Wax:
For those looking to repurpose leftover wax, both the double boiler and microwave methods can be adapted. The key is to exercise caution, especially when using the microwave. Ensure the container is microwave-safe, and if not, transfer the wax to a suitable vessel before following the designated method.
In conclusion, whether you're a novice or a seasoned candle maker, these methods provide a comprehensive approach to melting wax for candles. Always prioritize safety, monitor temperatures diligently, and embrace the creative process of crafting beautiful, fragrant candles for your home.
