What factors should be taken into account when choosing a candle ?

For centuries, candles have been lighting up our homes, creating warm, fragrant atmospheres that invite relaxation and well-being. At UNAVELA, we’re passionate about the art of candlelight, and we’re committed to offering our customers candles of exceptional quality, made with natural ingredients and delicate fragrances. But with so many choices available on the market, how do you find the perfect candle to suit your needs and desires?

1. Select according to use

Before delving into scents and styles, it’s essential to determine your candle’s primary use. Are you looking for a candle to create a relaxing atmosphere during a hot bath? Or would you rather add a touch of sophistication to your home decor? The function of your candle will guide your choice of wax, fragrance and container.

Candles for relaxation :

For moments of relaxation and well-being, choose candles made from natural waxes, such as soy wax, known for their clean, smokeless burn. Choose soft, soothing scents such as lavender, chamomile or vanilla, which promote relaxation and sleep. The Sieste à Deux candle lets you enjoy a moment of peaceful relaxation.

Candles to set the mood :

Scented candles offer a wide range of fragrances to create a variety of moods. For an energizing atmosphere, choose citrus or marine scents. For a cocooning atmosphere, opt for gourmand or spicy scents.

Candles for decoration :

Decorative candles come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and colors, to match any interior style.
Let yourself be seduced by UNAVELA’s MOLECULE candle, whose handmade porcelain pot and design make it a sublime decorative object.

2. Choose according to composition

The composition of a candle is an important element to take into account, as it influences not only its fragrance and ambience, but also its combustion and its impact on your health and your environment.

Waxes :

Mineral wax: the most common and least expensive, but can release harmful fumes during combustion.
Vegetable wax: natural, biodegradable and offers clean, smokeless combustion.
Beeswax: natural, delicately scented and with air-purifying properties.

Wicks :

Cotton wick: the most common wick, clean burning and good scent diffusion.
Wood wick: slower burning and soothing crackle, ideal for relaxing candles.

Perfumes :

Natural fragrances: extracted from plants and essential oils, offer an authentic, refined fragrance.
Synthetic fragrances: less expensive, but may contain allergens and chemicals.

Container :

Glass: offers an elegant look and soft, subdued light diffusion.
Ceramic: adds a warm, natural touch to your decor.
Metal: modern and minimalist, ideal for contemporary styles.

3. Burn time and spark plug size

The burning time of a candle is an important indicator, but it’s not the only factor to consider. It depends on several factors:

Candle size: the larger the candle, the longer it will last.
Wax composition: vegetable waxes tend to burn more slowly than kerosene wax.
Candle shape: round or square candles generally burn longer than oblong or tapered ones.
The quality of the wick: a well-braided wick of the right size ensures even, optimal combustion.

Finally, keep in mind that candle size and shape influence not only burn time, but also fragrance intensity and the ambience created.

4. Tips for buying candles

Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of candles and their uses, here are a few tips to help you make your choice for your next purchase:

Read labels: take the time to read candle labels carefully before you buy. This will tell you what ingredients are used, where the wax comes from and how it’s made. Choose candles made with natural ingredients, and avoid those containing artificial fragrances.

Test before you buy: if possible, try to smell the candles before you buy them. This will ensure that you like the scent and that it doesn’t give you a headache. Many candle stores allow their customers to smell the fragrances before buying them.

Buying online vs. in-store: there are advantages and disadvantages to buying candles online and in-store. Buying online gives you a wider choice of candles and makes it easier to compare prices. However, you can’t smell the candles before you buy them. Buying in-store allows you to smell the candles and ask the staff questions, but the choice is generally more limited.

Choosing the right candle may seem like a daunting task, but by following these tips, you should be able to find the perfect candle for your needs. Don’t forget to consider the mood you want to create, your fragrance preferences and your budget. With a little effort, you’ll find the perfect candle! Read on for our article: How to determine the quality of a candle ?