Are Cheap Candles Worth It? The Truth About Candle Quality

Wondering if cheap candles are worth it? We are diving into the difference between a cheap candle and one that is more of an investment. Once you read the details, you decide which is best for you.
The Appeal of Cheap Candles
We acknowledge the appeal of buying cheap candles.
They’re affordable, available anywhere, even in grocery stores, and can come in fancy packaging.
Are they worth it in the long run?

The Ingredients Matter
Cheap candles almost always contain toxic components, such as paraffin, a petroleum by-product.
All-natural waxes, such as soy, coconut, and beeswax, are high-quality options. Cheap candles are often made with synthetic fragrances that can have harsh, artificial undertones.
In addition to the wax and fragrance, a lesser quality of wick can lead to higher flames, soot, and uneven burns.
Burn Time & Performance
An inexpensive candle will burn less hours than a quality candle. They often tunnel and burn faster because of cheaper wicks and waste wax.
Though quality candles cost more, they save you money with longer burn times.

Health & Air Quality Concerns
At Southern Oak Artisan, we speak of the toxicity of paraffins and the importance of air quality when burning candles. Even the Cleveland Clinic agrees that cheap candles often have harmful carcinogens in them.
Natural waxes, clean fragrances, and quality wicks are safe for pets, the environment, and those with respiratory issues.
Now, we are not medical professionals and will never claim to be so, but paraffin and soot will always be something you want to remove as much as possible from your environment.
Scent Throw & Aesthetic
Cheap candles often produce a weak scent that doesn’t last as long or is overwhelming and offensive to your sensory glands.
Artisan-made candles are often made from natural ingredients and emit a longer-lasting scent. You should consider your vessel type.
The difference between cheap candles and higher quality candles can be recognized by the quality of the container. Artisan chandlers use containers from reputable companies known for their quality control.
As a bonus, we are a sustainable company, so we use jars you can repurpose later after your candle has burned clean.
Are Cheap Candles Worth It? Quality Over Quantity
Investing in a quality-made candle will not only enhance your experience, but it will burn cleaner and last longer.
While it’s tempting to go to box stores and stock up on many cheap candles, consider a quality candle that will not disappoint in performance.
Quality always wins when it comes to candles—because your home deserves better.