One of the best reasons to choose beeswax is how long it lasts. Beeswax is a dense, hard wax that melts at roughly 62 to 64°C, well above most soft container waxes, so a beeswax candle generally burns more slowly than a soy or paraffin candle of the same size.
Beeswax candle burn times by type
These are the approximate burn times for candles in the Miel Cire range:
- Classic Pillar, 20cm: about 60 hours
- Serenity Jar: up to 25 hours
- Wreath and Garland Trees (about 10cm tall): about 20 hours
- Honeycomb Votives: about 15 hours each
- Tealights: about 5 hours each
- Twist Tree Tapers (14cm): about 1 hour each
What affects how long a beeswax candle burns?
Width and height
More wax means a longer burn. A wide pillar holds far more wax than a slim taper of the same height.
Wick length
A long wick makes a tall, flickering flame that consumes wax quickly and can cause dripping. Trimming the wick to about 5mm before each lighting is the single easiest way to extend burn time.
Draughts
Open windows, fans and air-conditioning make the flame lean, which melts one side faster and wastes wax. A still spot gives a slower, even burn.
How long you burn it each time
Very short burns on a wide pillar can cause tunnelling, where the wick sinks down the middle and leaves a wall of unused wax. On a pillar, let the first burn run until the melted pool spreads close to the edge.
How to make beeswax candles last longer
- Trim the wick to about 5mm every time.
- Keep candles out of draughts.
- Stand free-standing candles on a candle plate or heat-resistant holder.
- Store unused candles somewhere cool, out of direct sun.
- Never leave a lit candle unattended.
Is beeswax worth the price?
Pure beeswax costs more upfront than paraffin or soy. Because it burns slowly, the cost per hour of light is often closer than the shelf price suggests, and you get a warm flame and a natural honey scent with nothing added.
Find your candle in our full beeswax candle collection, or read our complete guide to beeswax candles in Australia.