Soy wax candles are great. They burn clean and last longer. But finding the right wick can be tricky. Too small, and you get tunneling. Too big, and the candle smokes. I’ve tested many wicks to find the best ones for soy wax, so you don’t have to waste your time and money.
Here’s a quick look at my top picks:
- Overall Best: CD Series Wick
- Best for Small Jars: HTP Series Wick
- Best for Large Jars: LX Series Wick
- Best for Beginner Candle Makers: Wedo Stabilo Wick
- Best Natural Fiber Wick: Wooden Wick
Top 5 Best Candle Wick for Soy Wax Reviews
1. CD Series Wick
The CD series wick is a popular choice for soy wax candles. It’s known for its consistent burn and ability to handle various fragrance loads. It’s a strong contender for an all-around reliable wick.
Pros:
- ✅ Consistent burn
- ✅ Works well with different fragrance loads
- ✅ Minimal mushrooming
Cons:
- ❌ May require some experimentation to find the right size
- ❌ Can sometimes produce a slight flicker
- ❌ Not ideal for very heavily dyed candles
Verdict: Great for most soy wax candle projects, especially if you want a reliable and consistent burn.
2. HTP Series Wick
HTP wicks are designed for waxes that are harder to burn, including soy wax. They have a tighter braid. This helps them burn hotter and cleaner. I’ve found these are great for smaller diameter candles.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for soy wax
- ✅ Burns hotter, reducing tunneling
- ✅ Good for candles with dyes or additives
Cons:
- ❌ Might burn too hot for some wax blends
- ❌ Can produce more soot if oversized
- ❌ Limited size options compared to other series
Verdict: Best for smaller jar candles, especially if you struggle with getting a full melt pool.
3. LX Series Wick
LX wicks are another excellent choice for soy wax. They are known for their rigidity. This makes them easy to work with. They also provide a stable flame and good hot throw. That means the scent spreads well.
Pros:
- ✅ Stiff and easy to handle
- ✅ Stable flame
- ✅ Good hot throw
Cons:
- ❌ Can sometimes require a larger size than expected
- ❌ May not be the best choice for very small diameter candles
- ❌ Can produce some carbon buildup if not trimmed regularly
Verdict: Ideal for larger jar candles where you want a strong scent throw and a stable flame.
4. Wedo Stabilo Wick
Wedo Stabilo wicks are fantastic for beginners. They are pre-waxed and come with a sustainer clip. This makes them super easy to center in your candle container. They provide a clean burn and work well with soy wax.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to use, especially for beginners
- ✅ Pre-waxed and comes with a sustainer clip
- ✅ Clean burn
Cons:
- ❌ Limited size options
- ❌ Can be more expensive than buying wicks and sustainers separately
- ❌ May not be suitable for very large candles
Verdict: Perfect for beginners who want a hassle-free candle-making experience.
5. Wooden Wick
Wooden wicks create a unique crackling sound. They add a cozy ambiance to your candles. They are made from natural wood. They can be a bit trickier to use than traditional wicks, but the effect is worth it. I love the sound they make!
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a crackling sound
- ✅ Adds a unique ambiance
- ✅ Natural and sustainable option
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to keep lit
- ❌ Requires more trimming
- ❌ May need to be double-wicked for larger candles
Verdict: Great for those who want a unique candle experience with a cozy, crackling sound.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right wick is essential for a successful soy wax candle. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
- Consider the Diameter: The diameter of your candle container is the most important factor. Wick manufacturers provide charts that recommend wick sizes based on diameter.
- Test, Test, Test: Always test your wicks! Even with size charts, different waxes and fragrances can affect the burn. Make a small batch and burn test before making a large batch.
- Wax Type Matters: Soy wax blends can vary. Some blends are softer and burn easier than others. Adjust your wick size accordingly.
- Fragrance Load: Higher fragrance loads can sometimes require a larger wick. Fragrance oils can clog the wick. This prevents the candle from burning correctly.
- Dye Impact: Heavily dyed candles might need a slightly larger wick. Dyes can also clog the wick, so keep this in mind.
- Wick Placement: Center your wick carefully. An off-center wick can cause uneven burning.
- Trim Your Wicks: Always trim your wick to about ¼ inch before each burn. This prevents smoking and mushrooming.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about candle wicks for soy wax:
Q: How do I know what size wick to use?
A: Use a wick size chart as a starting point. These charts usually recommend wick sizes based on the diameter of your candle container. Always test your wicks to fine-tune your choice.
Q: What is tunneling, and how do I prevent it?
A: Tunneling happens when the candle only burns down the center. The wax around the edges remains. To prevent it, use a wick that is large enough to melt the wax all the way to the edges of the container during each burn.
Q: Why is my candle smoking?
A: Smoking can be caused by several things, including using a wick that is too large, not trimming the wick, or having too much fragrance oil in your candle. Try using a smaller wick or trimming it more frequently.
Q: Can I use any wick with soy wax?
A: While you can technically use any wick, some wicks are better suited for soy wax than others. Series like CD, HTP, and LX are popular choices. They are designed to burn well with soy wax.
Q: How often should I trim my wick?
A: Trim your wick to about ¼ inch before each burn. This helps to ensure a clean and even burn.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wick for your soy wax candles can seem daunting. But with a little experimentation, you can find the perfect match. Consider the CD series for a reliable all-around option. Try HTP for small jars, and LX for larger ones. Beginners will appreciate the ease of Wedo Stabilo wicks. Wooden wicks add a unique touch. Happy candle making!
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