All About That Soy Wax

Soy Wax is a solid form of hydrogenated soybean oil, making it a natural and renewable product.  There are many real benefits to using soy when making candles, or purchasing candles made from soy wax.  Soy Wax burns cleaner and produces much less smoke than those made from paraffin. This means that anyone sensitive to candle smoke will have a much easier time with soy wax, and the air will be cleaner and safer especially for younger children and the elderly.

Soy wax is made from soybeans, and is a solid form of hydrogenated soybean oil, making it a natural and renewable product. Unlike paraffin, which is a byproduct of crude oil refining, soy wax is a relatively pure compound with which to make candles.

The Benefits of Soy Wax Candles

There are many real benefits to using soy when making candles, or purchasing candles made from soy wax. Soy can be more expensive than paraffin, but the benefits of soy wax candles can be worth it.

Renewable Material
Since soybeans are grown extensively, soy wax is readily available and renewable. Other natural candle waxes like beeswax or bayberry wax can be very expensive and their supply is limited. On the other hand, soy is a consistent and viable alternative for those who prefer candles made from natural, renewable sources.

Long-Lasting Candles
Soy wax burns more slowly and evenly than paraffin, so candles will last longer. Even though you'll pay a little more for soy, the fact that your candles burn longer helps to offset the extra expense. Many people claim that the lower heat of a soy candle will also ensure that the scent will last longer, but this tends to depend more on the quality and amount of scent oil in the candle than the heat of the wax.

Clean Burning
Candles made from soy wax burn cleaner and produce much less smoke than those made from paraffin. This means that anyone sensitive to candle smoke will have a much easier time with soy wax, and the air will be cleaner and safer for everyone, especially young children and the elderly. There is also less risk of smoke damage to nearby furniture, walls, or ceilings.

Easy to Clean Up
Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin, so the wax turns softer at lower temperatures. If you find yourself with a soy wax spill, it can be cleaned up with soap and hot water rather than harsh chemicals. For candle makers, this is also a handy feature since equipment can be cleaned in the sink under hot running water, or even in the dishwasher.