Safety First
Protect yourself from potential burns and hazards by wearing appropriate safety gear. A long-sleeved shirt, gloves, and safety goggles are essential items to have on hand. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and work in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of fumes.
The Best Beeswax Melters
To transform solid beeswax into a liquid state, you'll need the right equipment. The method you choose will depend on the scale of your candle making endeavors and the resources at your disposal.
Modified Presto Pots
The modified presto pot is a cost-efficient favorite for beeswax melting, though care is essential to prevent overheating that could damage or ignite the wax. Its added advantage is a spout, facilitating easy collection of melted wax into pouring jugs.
Soup Warmers / Bain Marie
Soup heaters, also known as bain marie, offer another effective way to melt beeswax. These devices consist of a water reservoir and an inner pot or container. As the water heats, the beeswax in the inner container melts gradually. This method is convenient and allows for precise temperature control.
Industrial Equipment
For larger-scale operations, industrial wax melters are available. These machines are designed to handle significant quantities of beeswax efficiently. They offer precise temperature regulation and can significantly streamline the melting process for those producing candles on a commercial scale.
DIY Double Boiler
A simple and cost-effective way to melt beeswax is by creating a DIY double boiler. Place a heat-safe container filled with beeswax inside a larger pot containing water. As the water heats up, it gently melts the beeswax without subjecting it to direct heat. This method is suitable for small to medium-sized batches of candles.
Equipment to Avoid
While some methods work well for melting beeswax, others are best avoided to ensure the quality of your candles.
Water Urns / Beer Kettles
Water urns and beer kettles are commonly used for boiling water and not suitable for melting beeswax. The heating element gets hot too fast and can negatively impact the quality of the beeswax or even ignite it.
