If you’re someone who enjoys candles, you’ve probably heard of soy candles. Soy candles are becoming more and more popular, but what are they exactly? In this article, we will explore what soy candles are, their benefits, and why you should consider switching to soy candles.
What Are Soy Candles?
Soy candles are candles made from soy wax, which is a vegetable wax derived from soybeans. Soy wax is a natural and renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to paraffin wax candles.
How Are Soy Candles Made?
Soy wax is made from soybean oil that has been hydrogenated, a process that turns the oil into a solid at room temperature. The soy wax is then blended with fragrance oils and poured into a container or molded into a shape.
Benefits of Soy Candles
There are several benefits of using soy candles:
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Soy wax is made from a renewable resource, which means it is biodegradable and does not contribute to environmental pollution. Soy wax also burns cleaner than paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum.
Longer Lasting
Soy candles burn longer than paraffin candles, meaning you get more use out of each candle.
Better Fragrance
Soy wax holds fragrance oils better than paraffin wax, meaning you get a stronger and more consistent scent from soy candles.
Safer to Use
Soy candles produce less soot than paraffin candles, which means they are safer to use and do not contribute to indoor air pollution.
Soy Candles vs. Paraffin Candles
Paraffin wax candles are the most common type of candles on the market, but they come with several downsides:
- Paraffin wax is made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource that contributes to environmental pollution.
- Paraffin candles produce black soot when burned, which can be harmful to your health and contribute to indoor air pollution.
- Paraffin candles have a shorter burn time than soy candles.
Soy candles are a better alternative to paraffin candles because they are made from a renewable resource, produce less soot, and have a longer burn time.
How to Choose Soy Candles
When choosing soy candles, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Look for candles made from 100% soy wax.
- Choose candles with natural fragrances, such as essential oils, to avoid synthetic chemicals.
- Read reviews and choose candles from reputable brands.
Tips for Burning Soy Candles
To get the most out of your soy candles, follow these tips:
- Burn candles for at least 1 hour for every inch in diameter to prevent tunneling.
- Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting to prevent soot and ensure a clean burn.
- Keep the candle away from drafts to prevent uneven burning.
- Do not burn candles for more than 4 hours at a time.
Soy Candle Safety Precautions
While soy candles are safer to use than paraffin candles, there are still a few safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep candles away from flammable materials.
- Do not burn candles near children or pets
Soy Candle FAQs
Are soy candles more expensive than paraffin candles?
Soy candles can be more expensive than paraffin candles, but they last longer and burn cleaner, making them a better value in the long run.
Do soy candles have a strong scent?
Soy candles can have a strong scent, but it depends on the brand and fragrance used. Look for candles with natural fragrances, such as essential oils, for a stronger and more authentic scent.
Can soy candles be scented with essential oils?
Yes, soy candles can be scented with essential oils, which are a natural and non-toxic alternative to synthetic fragrance oils.
Can soy candles be recycled?
Yes, soy candles can be recycled by melting down the leftover wax and pouring it into a new container or using it as a natural wax melt.
Are soy candles vegan?
Yes, soy candles are vegan as they are made from vegetable wax and do not contain any animal products.
Conclusion
Soy candles are a great eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to paraffin candles. They are made from a renewable resource, burn longer, produce less soot, and have a better fragrance. When choosing soy candles, look for candles made from 100% soy wax with natural fragrances and choose reputable brands. Follow the tips for burning and safety precautions to ensure a clean and safe burn. By choosing soy candles, you are making a conscious choice for your health and the environment.