Bath & Body Works is one of the most popular candle brands in the world, known for its vast array of powerful scents that fill a room. Many people love them for their fragrance variety, but a common question arises after just a few burns: are they actually long lasting?
To answer this, we need to look past the branding and focus on the science of the materials used. The longevity of a candle is not determined by its scent strength, but by the chemical and physical properties of its wax.
This post will compare the wax used in most Bath & Body Works candles with the 100% pure beeswax we use at Mbur Candle Co. to give you a clear answer on burn time and overall value.
Understanding the Wax in Bath & Body Works Candles
Most Bath & Body Works 3-wick candles are made from a proprietary blend that includes vegetable wax and paraffin wax. Paraffin is a soft, petroleum-based wax. From a performance standpoint, it is very effective at absorbing and releasing strong fragrances.
However, paraffin is a relatively soft and low-density wax with a lower melting point. This composition prioritizes a strong scent throw over a long lifespan. A softer wax with a lower melting point is consumed by the flame at a much faster rate. For their popular 14.5 oz 3-wick candle, the quoted burn time is typically 25 to 45 hours.
The Science of a Longer Burn: The Beeswax Advantage
In our post on "What Type of Candle Lasts the Longest?", we explained that burn time is primarily a function of two things: wax density and melting point.
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Density: Pure beeswax is a significantly denser wax than paraffin. This means that in a vessel of the same size, there is physically more fuel to burn in a beeswax candle.
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Melting Point: Beeswax has a much higher melting point (around 144-147°F) than the paraffin blends used in many mass-market candles. It requires more heat and energy to melt, so the wax is consumed by the flame at a much slower rate.
The result of this powerful combination is that a Mbur Candle Co. pure beeswax candle will burn significantly longer, brighter, and cleaner than a paraffin-blend candle of the same size.
Beyond Burn Time: A Different Definition of Value
Longevity is not just about the number of hours. True value also comes from the quality of the experience.
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A Cleaner Burn: A long lasting candle should also be a clean burning one. Our beeswax candles are non toxic and virtually soot free, unlike paraffin blends which can release toxins and create soot on the vessel and in your air.
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A Complete Burn: Value also means using the entire product you paid for. Our special safety clip at the base of the wick ensures you get a full, safe burn to the very bottom, meaning no thick layer of wax is wasted.
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A Quality Fragrance: While some brands prioritize scent intensity, we focus on clean, sophisticated, phthalate-free fragrances that create a beautiful atmosphere without being overwhelming or laden with chemicals.
The Verdict
So, are Bath & Body Works candles long lasting? Compared to a premium beeswax candle, no. Their softer wax blend is scientifically formulated for a strong scent release, which comes at the expense of a slow, long-lasting burn.
When you choose a Mbur Candle Co. candle, you are choosing a different kind of value. You are investing in a candle that not only lasts significantly longer but also contributes to a healthier, cleaner home environment. It is a longer lasting experience in every sense of the word.
Ready to experience the difference a truly long burning, clean burning candle can make? Discover the Mbur Candle Co. collection.
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