In recent years, we have increasingly come across scented candles for the home with wooden wicks, which visually look more interesting and unusual than the usual candles with cotton wicks. Meanwhile, cotton wick candles have been around for centuries and are the de facto standard in candle making. So which ones are more convenient to use? Which ones allow the scent to reveal itself better? Let's take a look at the main features of wooden and cotton wicks and find out.
COTTON WICK
The main advantage of home candles with a cotton wick is their reliable and even burning. Cotton wicks are made of a natural fiber that does not deform much when the candle burns. It is unlikely that these wicks will produce an uneven and irregular flame, which will cause the wax to burn out disproportionately or cause the candle to burn out on its own.
Another advantage is that candles with a simple cotton wick are easier to maintain. Because these wicks don't bend to the side very much, they don't need to be shortened very often to keep the flame burning evenly. So compared to wooden wicks, these candles are relatively easy to maintain.
Also, most manufacturers choose cotton wicks because it is incomparably easier and cheaper to make a high-quality cotton wick than a corresponding quality wooden wick - the production does not require a lot of specialized equipment. Far from all wooden wicks are of high quality and ensure high-quality combustion. Thus, when choosing quality cotton wicks, manufacturers can invest more in quality wax and fragrance oils than in the wicks themselves.
WOODEN WICK
One of the advantages of wooden wicks is that they usually emit a pleasant crackling sound when burning. Smell is important, of course, but that campfire-like crackle can add some coziness.
Another advantage of a wooden wick is that it emits slightly less soot when burning compared to a cotton wick. For people who are allergic to it, we recommend choosing a candle with a wooden wick.
The main disadvantage of candles with a wooden wick is their more complicated maintenance. It is not without reason that most manufacturers of such candles additionally provide detailed maintenance instructions. In case of improper care - not shortening the wick to the proper length in time - these candles start to go out on their own, the wicks - to crack, the wax does not melt evenly.
VERDICT
In summary, both types of wicks have their strengths and weaknesses. Both types of wicks will allow the fragrance to develop perfectly if they are properly cared for.
Cotton wicks are easier to maintain and ensure an even burn from the first ignition to the last. It is not without reason that they have been used for centuries. On the other hand, wooden wicks, when snapped, add additional mood to the atmosphere and emit less soot, but there may be problems with their maintenance.
We usually choose candles for the home with a classic cotton wick, but we also have one or two with a wooden wick, which we are also happy with. 🖤
