Soy candles are suddenly everywhere (including right here at Denmead Candles). Why are they so popular, and are they really better for you?
Soy Burns Cleanly
Paraffin wax has been the wax of choice in the candle industry for a long time. It replaced tallow which is made from the fat of an animal (often sheep or cows). Paraffin produces less soot than tallow, so it became a popular and cheaper alternative. However, paraffin is also a by-product of refining petroleum and it contains chemicals which many of us do not want in our homes.
Soy wax is one of several different types of plant-based waxes and burns more cleanly than paraffin. It does not release potentially harmful chemicals into the air, such as benzene, toluene, and acetaldehyde, all of which are potential carcinogens.
Synthetic fragrances, which are often used in soy and other plant-wax candles, are another common source of undesirable chemicals and can often cause headaches when breathed in.
Soy wax candles that use essential oils as fragrance instead of synthetic oils (as we do at Denmead Candles), burn cleanest of all and also have the added benefit of the aromatherapy properties of the essential oils contained within them. Essentail oils can promote relaxation, aid in getting a better night’s sleep, or even help you to feel focused and energised.
Soy Is Easier To Clean
Soy wax is water soluble so soy candle containers can be reused by pouring the melted wax out and running the container through a dishwasher. If your oven has a keep-warm function this is perfect for melting any remaining soy candle wax at the bottom and tipping it away before washing the jar (tip the melted wax into a bin, not down the sink!)
Wax spills from soy candles are easier to clean up. Paraffin wax is not water soluble so it’s far harder to remove from containers, or to clean up melted wax that has spread onto furniture or carpets.
Soy wax is also biodegradable and causes minimal changes to indoor air quality when burnt in candle form.
Soy Burns Longer
Soy candles are excellent value for money as they burn for longer (at a lower temperature) than paraffin. Soy candles provide a more subtle, natural aroma, which is perfect if you are sensitive to highly fragranced products. If you want no scent at all and to enjoy candlelight without any distractions our Number #1 Unscented candle is perfect for this.
Using essential oils rather than synthetic fragrance in soy candles conveys the aromatherapy benefits of those oils, many of which promote relaxation and a reduction in stress levels.
Conclusion
If you want a slower burn, a cleaner scent, and a healthier product in your home soy candles are a better choice. Try one of our essential oil aromatherapy candles today and see why our natural, plant-based candles are so loved!