Hive To Home Candle Co | Frequently Asked Questions

Discover Our Candle FAQ Page: Beeswax Candles, General Candle Tips, and Safety Guidelines. Delve into our Candle FAQ page to learn about beeswax candle benefits and care, general candle advice, and essential safety practices for a delightful and secure candle-burning experience.

Bees and Beekeeping FAQ's

Saving bees involves a combination of individual and collective actions. Planting a diverse range of native plants, which flower at different times of the year, can provide bees with a constant source of food. Avoiding pesticides, especially those containing neonicotinoids, can also help protect bees. Providing a source of fresh water in your garden can also help bees. On a larger scale, supporting local beekeepers and advocating for policies that protect bees and their habitats can make a significant difference.

The lifespan of a bee can vary greatly depending on the type of bee and its role in the colony. Worker bees, which are the female bees that do not reproduce, usually live for about six weeks in the summer. However, those born in the autumn can live until the following spring. Queen bees, which are the reproductive females, can live for several years. Male bees, or drones, live for around eight weeks.

Bees primarily eat nectar and pollen from flowers. Nectar, which is a sweet liquid, provides bees with energy and is also used to make honey. Pollen, which is a powder-like substance, provides bees with protein and other nutrients. Bees also collect water, which is used for cooling the hive and diluting honey so it can be consumed.

The ethics of beekeeping can depend on the practices of the beekeeper. Ethical beekeeping prioritizes the health and wellbeing of the bees. This can include practices such as leaving enough honey for the bees to eat over the winter, rather than replacing it with sugar water, and managing pests and diseases in a way that minimizes harm to the bees. Ethical beekeepers also aim to minimize stress to the bees during hive inspections and honey extraction.

Bees are crucial for pollination, which is the process of transferring pollen from the male parts of a flower to the female parts. This results in the production of seeds and is necessary for many plants to reproduce. Many of the foods we eat, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, rely on bees for pollination. Bees also help to pollinate plants that provide habitat and food for other wildlife, so they play a crucial role in ecosystems.

Beeswax Candle FAQ's

Yes, beeswax candles are generally considered safe for use. They are made from a natural and non-toxic substance produced by honeybees, making them an environmentally friendly and sustainable option. Beeswax candles burn significantly more cleanly than their paraffin counterparts, emitting minimal soot and no harmful chemicals. Additionally, they have a lower risk of triggering allergies or sensitivities.

Yes! Beeswax is considered the most luxurious wax for candles and is by far the most expensive. That is for good reason. Beeswax makes slow burning candles and it takes roughly 4448 bees to produce 1 pound of beeswax. Most companies opt for soy wax as it is significantly cheaper and much easier to scent than beeswax.

Beeswax candles are special for several reasons, primarily due to their natural origins and various benefits. Beeswax is a renewable resource produced by honeybees, these candles are environmentally friendly and sustainable. When burned, they produce minimal soot, burn cleanly, and emit a subtle, pleasant aroma derived from the honey and floral nectar present in the wax. Additionally, beeswax candles have a longer burn time compared to other types of candles, making them an efficient and cost-effective choice. 

Yes, beeswax candles can help clean the air to some extent. When burned, beeswax candles release negative ions that can neutralize pollutants, such as dust, pollen, and other allergens, improving indoor air quality. Additionally, beeswax candles burn with a bright, steady flame and produce minimal soot, making them a cleaner and more eco-friendly option compared to paraffin candles. 

Adding coconut oil into beeswax candles offers several benefits, including improved consistency for easier handling, enhanced scent throw. Combining these two natural ingredients results in candles that provide an enjoyable and satisfying experience while maintaining the desirable qualities of beeswax with less likelihood of tunneling and a better ability to hold fragrance.

Beeswax candles offer several advantages over other types of candles, making them a popular choice for many consumers. Key benefits include:

  • Natural and eco-friendly: Beeswax is a renewable resource produced by honeybees, making these candles more sustainable and environmentally friendly compared to candles made from petroleum-based products.
  • Clean burning: Beeswax candles burn with minimal soot and smoke, reducing indoor air pollution and ensuring a cleaner burn than paraffin candles.
  • Air purifying: As beeswax candles burn, they release negative ions that can help neutralize air pollutants such as dust, mold, and allergens, potentially improving air quality.
  • Hypoallergenic: Beeswax candles are less likely to cause allergic reactions, making them a suitable option for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to artificial scents or chemicals.
  • Long-lasting: Beeswax candles have a slower burn rate, allowing them to last longer than other types of candles, such as soy or paraffin.
  • Pleasant aroma: Beeswax candles emit a subtle, natural honey scent when burned, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

These benefits make beeswax candles an appealing option for consumers seeking a natural, clean-burning, and long-lasting candle that also offers potential air-purifying properties.

If you notice a white, powdery substance on the surface of your beeswax candle, don't worry - it's not mold or dust. This is called "bloom" and it's a natural process that occurs with pure beeswax. Bloom is caused by the softer oils in the beeswax rising to the surface over time, especially when the candle is exposed to temperature changes. It doesn't affect the performance of the candle and can be easily removed by gently wiping the candle with a soft cloth or heating the surface with a hairdryer.

Beeswax Candles and Sustainability

Beeswax candles are eco-friendly due to their natural origins and sustainable production process. Beeswax is a renewable resource, produced by bees as a byproduct of their pollination work. Unlike paraffin candles, which are derived from petroleum, beeswax candles do not release harmful chemicals when burned. They are also biodegradable, contributing to a zero-waste lifestyle.

Beeswax candles are produced sustainably by collecting excess beeswax from beehives, a process that doesn't harm bees and supports their health and productivity. The collected beeswax is then naturally cleaned and filtered, without the use of chemicals, before being hand-poured into candle molds. This process ensures minimal impact on the environment.

The production of beeswax candles has a low environmental impact. Beeswax is a natural, renewable resource that bees produce as part of their pollination work. The collection of beeswax does not harm bees or their hives. Furthermore, the production process of our candles involves minimal waste and energy usage, making it a sustainable choice.

Both beeswax and soy candles have their own sustainability merits. However, beeswax candles are often considered more sustainable. Beeswax is a byproduct of bees' pollination, which is crucial for our ecosystem. On the other hand, soy production can often involve deforestation and the use of pesticides. Additionally, beeswax candles burn longer than soy candles, making them a more economical choice.

Yes, beeswax candles are biodegradable. Beeswax is a natural substance that breaks down over time and can be composted, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to reduce their environmental impact.

The production of beeswax candles supports local beekeeping communities by providing a market for their beeswax, a natural byproduct of beekeeping. This helps sustain their operations and encourages the practice of beekeeping, which is vital for pollination and biodiversity.

To refill your candle with our beeswax candle refills:

  1. Removing Old Wax:

    • Slide off the candle label to prevent damage.
    • Place the candle in the freezer for a few hours to shrink the wax.
    • Use a kitchen utensil to knock the wax loose or gently tap the jar on the counter. Scrape out any thin areas of wax.
    • Rub cooking oil inside the jar to remove waxy residue, then wash with soap and water. Leftover wax can be used in wax warmers.
  2. Inserting the Refill:

    • Drop the beeswax candle refill into your cleaned jar. Alternatively, you can place the refill inside without cleaning.

Refilling your candles allows you to enjoy your favorite scents sustainably and reduce waste.

Beeswax Skincare FAQ's

Our beeswax lip balm is a natural remedy for chapped or cracked lips. The beeswax forms a protective barrier on your lips, locking in moisture and protecting them from external elements. It also contains Vitamin A, which aids in the repair and rejuvenation of cells.

Our beeswax lotion, THICKwax, offers several benefits. It provides extreme hydration, creates a protective layer over your skin, and helps maintain collagen. The lotion also contains coconut oil for additional hydration and microbial protection, argon oil for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and mango butter for its cleansing properties and ability to unclog pores.

Beeswax in our lotion acts as a natural water repellent, locking in your skin's moisture. It also has antiseptic properties that help protect against microorganisms. Additionally, beeswax provides your skin with Vitamin A, which helps maintain collagen and leads to quicker skin regeneration.

Yes, our beeswax skincare products are suitable for sensitive skin. They are made with all-natural, non-toxic, skin-friendly ingredients. However, as with any skincare product, we recommend doing a patch test first to ensure you do not have any adverse reactions.

Yes, all our beeswax skincare products are made with all-natural ingredients. For example, our beeswax lip balm is made with beeswax, coconut oil, apricot oil, and stevia. Our beeswax lotion contains beeswax, coconut oil, argon oil, and mango butter.

Candle Aesthetics and Decoration

Aesthetic candles can significantly enhance your home decor by adding a touch of elegance and warmth. You can use candles of different shapes, sizes, and colors to create a unique aesthetic appeal. For instance, placing tall pillar candles on a dining table can create a sophisticated look, while small tea light candles can add a cozy ambiance to your living room. Remember, the key to using aesthetic candles for decoration is to complement your existing decor and color scheme.

Decorating with aesthetic candles can be a fun and creative process. Here are some tips:

  • Group candles together: A group of candles can create a focal point in your room. Try grouping candles of varying heights and sizes for a dynamic look.
  • Use candle holders: Decorative candle holders can add an extra layer of aesthetics to your candles. They come in various styles and materials like glass, metal, or ceramic.
  • Incorporate candles in your seasonal decor: For instance, during the holiday season, you can use red, green, or gold candles to add a festive touch.
  • Safety first: Always place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable objects.

Safety should be your top priority when using decorative candles in your bedroom. Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Never leave a burning candle unattended and always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Consider using candle lanterns or containers for an extra layer of safety.

There are numerous creative ways to display decorative candles in your home. You can place candles on mirrored trays for a reflective effect, use them in lanterns for an outdoor feel, or incorporate them into floral arrangements for a fresh look. Floating candles in a water-filled glass container can create a magical effect. Remember, the goal is to enhance your home's aesthetic appeal while ensuring safety.

Aesthetic candles are perfect for creating a relaxing ambiance in your home. The soft, flickering light of a candle can create a calming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Scented candles can also enhance the ambiance - choose fragrances like lavender or vanilla for a soothing effect. Place candles in areas where you like to relax, such as the living room or bedroom, and enjoy the serene environment they create.

Candle Safety FAQ's

Proper candle care is essential for optimal performance and safety. To maintain your candles, follow these steps:

  1. Trim the wick: Keep the wick trimmed to approximately 1/4 inch (6-8 mm) before each use. This helps ensure a steady flame, reduces soot production, and prevents excessively large flames.

  2. Create a melt pool: Allow the candle wax to melt evenly across the entire surface, reaching the edges of the container before extinguishing. This prevents tunneling and ensures even burning throughout the candle's life.

  3. Burn time: Limit each burning session to around 2-4 hours to prevent overheating the container and ensure the candle's longevity.

  4. Store properly: Keep candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, to preserve their fragrance and appearance.

  5. Use a heat-resistant surface: Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface to prevent damage to surfaces and reduce fire risk.

For detailed candle care instructions, refer to our Candle Care Page to ensure the best performance and safety while using your candles.

It is recommended to extinguish your candle after approximately 4 hours of burning. Stop burning your candle entirely when the metal wick sustainer becomes visible to ensure safety and prevent damage to the candle container or surfice underneath.

It's essential to minimize the time a candle is left unattended. A burning flame should always be supervised, and proper candle maintenance can help ensure a safe flame. However, leaving a candle unattended is never recommended.

A candle will eventually burn out on their own. They will run out of wick & wax to burn through. However, it is never a good idea to allow a candle to do so, it is best to blow out your candle before they reach the metal sustainer that holds the wick.

They become unstable. A candle that burns too long can result a dangerously large flame that is more likely to have black smoke, emit smoke, and cuase a fire. A good night of sleep is too long for a candle to burn. Besides, you can't enjoy it if you're asleep anyway.

Scented candles are safe when made from high-quality, non-toxic ingredients. Ensure that any scented candle you burn is made with phthalate-free fragrance oils. To learn more about phthalates and scented candles read out blog post about phthalates. Always choose reputable brands and follow proper usage guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.

General Candle FAQ's

Candles can technically expire, as certain ingredients used in their creation may have a limited shelf life. However, most candles have a long expiration timeframe, making it unlikely that they will go bad before being used. To ensure optimal performance and fragrance retention, store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. By following proper storage guidelines, you can prolong the life of your candles and enjoy them for an extended period.

Various types of wax are used in candle-making, each offering distinct properties and benefits. Some of the most prevalent waxes include:

Paraffin Wax: Derived from petroleum, paraffin wax is a widely used candle-making material. It is cost-effective, easy to work with, and holds fragrance well. However, paraffin candles may emit soot and potentially harmful chemicals when burned.

Soy Wax: Made from hydrogenated soybean oil, soy wax is a natural, renewable, and environmentally friendly alternative to paraffin. Soy candles burn more cleanly, last longer, and have a lower melting point, although they may not hold fragrance as strongly as paraffin candles.

Beeswax: Sourced from honeybees, beeswax is a natural and sustainable option for candles. Beeswax candles burn with minimal soot, release a subtle, natural scent, and emit negative ions that can help purify the air. However, they are often more expensive than other types due to limited supply and high demand.

Palm Wax: Extracted from palm oil, palm wax is another eco-friendly choice. Palm candles are known for their unique crystalline texture and excellent scent throw. It is crucial to ensure the palm wax is sustainably sourced to minimize environmental impact.

By understanding the different types of wax commonly used in candle-making, you can make an informed decision when choosing the ideal candle based on your preferences and priorities.

Candles operate through combustion, a process involving heat, fuel, and oxygen. The wick, usually made from cotton or other fibrous materials, functions as the fuel delivery system, absorbing the melted wax and carrying it to the flame. The primary fuel source for candles is wax, with common types including paraffin, soy, beeswax, and palm wax. Upon lighting a candle, the flame's heat melts the wax close to the wick, which is then drawn up the wick through capillary action. As the liquid wax moves upward, it heats further, vaporizing into a flammable gas. When this vaporized wax combines with oxygen in the air, it combusts, generating the visible flame. The flame's heat continues to melt additional wax, sustaining the burning process.

Candle tunneling occurs when a candle burns down its center, leaving unburned wax around the edges. To fix and prevent tunneling, follow these steps:

Burn time: Allow the candle to burn long enough during its initial use, so the entire surface melts and forms an even wax pool, reaching the edges of the container. This typically takes around one hour per inch of the candle's diameter.

Trim the wick: Keep the wick trimmed to approximately 1/4 inch (6-8 mm) before each use. A shorter wick promotes even burning and reduces the risk of tunneling.

Use a heat-resistant tool: If tunneling has already occurred, use a heat-resistant tool, such as a butter knife or spoon, to gently carve away the excess wax around the edges and create an even surface.

Foil wrap method: Wrap aluminum foil around the top of the candle, leaving a small opening in the center for the flame. This helps to retain heat and melt the wax more evenly, fixing the tunneling issue.

By following these steps and maintaining proper candle care, you can fix and prevent tunneling, ensuring a longer, more enjoyable candle-burning experience.

To trim a candle wick, first extinguish the candle and let the wax cool. Then, using a wick trimmer or scissors trim the wick to approximately 1/4 inch in length. Properly trimming the wick ensures a cleaner, more even burn and reduces the risk of excess smoke or soot. Find out more on our candle care page.

Trimming a candle wick is crucial for optimal performance, safety, and longevity. It ensures a cleaner burn with less soot and smoke, promotes even wax melting, maintains a controlled flame, extends the candle's life, and improves fragrance release. Regularly trimming the wick to 1/4 inch (6-8 mm) before each use leads to a safer and more enjoyable candle experience. Start using a wick trimmer to get a better burn!

Candle wick mushrooming occurs when there is excess carbon or incomplete combustion of the candle wax. This usually happens when the candle wick is too long or the candle has been burning for an extended period. The "mushroom" shape at the end of the wick is actually carbon buildup, which can cause your candle to produce smoke or soot. To prevent wick mushrooming, it's important to trim your candle wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn and to avoid burning your candle for more than 4 hours at a time. Using high-quality candles, like beeswax candles, can also help to reduce mushrooming as they burn cleaner and produce less soot than other types of candles.

Trimming your candle wick is an essential part of candle care to ensure optimal burning and longevity of your candle. As a general rule, you should trim your candle wick every 4 hours of burn time. This means before every lighting, you should shorten the wick to about 1/4 inch. This helps to prevent the wick from mushrooming, which can lead to soot being released into the air and onto your candle jar. Regular wick trimming also helps to control the size of the flame, allowing for a cleaner and safer burn. Remember to always extinguish the candle and let it cool completely before trimming the wick.

Order FAQ's

If your candle or other item was damaged or you received the wrong item please fill out the form on our customer contact page and we will send you a replacement or refund the item. Be sure to provide the order number and any other relavant information.

Contact us with before your order ships with the order number and the change you would like to make. You can do so through our customer support form.

Through our site we currently ship to the United States and Canada. If you live outside of these regions we may still be able to ship to you, contact us and see if this applies.

We offer free shipping within the U.S. but shipping prices for other regions will depend on location, tariffs, and other regional taxes.

In order to offer many personalized options and different scents, many products are made to order. Ship times will depend on the items within the order as well as order quantity, however most orders ship 3-7 days after they are placed.

Yes, we offer many different customization options and offer bulk ordering. Additionally we work with boutiques, retailers, and corporate gifting companies through wholesale channels. Click either our bulk order or corporate gifting page to get in touch!