A candle is made of wax, right? Well, yes. But, there are different kinds of wax. The kind you choose to burn like a candle is actually a big deal.
For years when you think of candles, you may assume it’s made of paraffin. But, many candles are now being made from soy, and there is a very good reason. Actually, there are several reasons to and benefits of burning soy candles.
Lets kick things off!
Let’s talk about 8 benefits of soy candles versus paraffin.
Natural, Plant-Based
Soy wax contains nothing artificial. It is made from soybeans, but paraffin is made from petroleum.
Paraffin actually comes from the waxy substance of crude oil. Soy wax, on the other hand, is made from hydrogenated soybean oil.
This plant-based, alternative to paraffin is natural. Soy wax is 100% biodegradable which is good for the environment and for your and your family’s health. But, paraffin wax is not.
Cleaner Burn, Less Soot
One of the top reasons people choose soy wax candles is because of how clean they burn.
Any candle that you burn is going to emit soot, but soy wax emits less. Since paraffin is a petroleum product, the soot that these candles produce is a bi-product called petro-carbon soot. Think chimney sweeps from Mary Poppins, and it’s a pretty clear picture of how messy soot can be.
Less soot the better. The black soot discolors everything it comes into contact with. The paraffin soot particles are also so small that they can penetrate the lungs and cause potential damage. Cancer experts warn at-risk patients not to burn paraffin candles in their homes.
Non-Toxic
When you burn the petroleum-based paraffin wax, it releases almost a dozen toxins into the air. Some of these toxins are even known to be carcinogenic, which means they could cause cancer.
Soy wax, on the other hand, is made from a food product, soybeans. It doesn’t contain carcinogens or any toxins. A South Carolina State University study discovered that burning paraffin wax candles gives off benzene, which according to The American Cancer Society, is a carcinogen. The same study revealed that soy wax candles did not give off benzene.
Sustainable
Purchasing candles made of soy wax is a great way to support American farmers.
Because soy wax is made from plants, it is sustainable. This means that the more we use, the more soybeans we will need to grow to make more. It keeps the farmers going.
Burns Longer
A soy wax candle generally burns up to 50 percent longer than its paraffin counterpart. Of course, the actual length of burn time is going to depend on some other factors as well such as the size of the candle and the length of its wick. But, overall soy will burn longer than paraffin.
Lower Melting Point
A melting point is a temperature at which a solid melts.
Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin. Why is this important? Because the lower melting point allows soy to burn easier in cooler environments or seasons. The lower the melting point also lowers the risk of accidental burns.
Softer and Cleans Up Well
Soy wax is softer and more pliable than paraffin.
Soy beans are turned into hydrogenated oil which turns solid at room temperature. Also, if some of it drips on your rug or clothing, it is easy to clean up with soap and water. Whereas paraffin tends to become hard and crack, and drips are difficult to get out.
Holds Fragrance Better
Because there is less soot and no toxins being released, soy wax candles are able to give off a stronger and more pleasant scent than paraffin candles. If the candle is scented, the chemicals in the paraffin wax often interfere with the scent while it is burning.
Helpful Hint: If you have suffered a headache after burning a scented candle, it is most likely the toxins that are causing the problem and not the actual scent.
Make a Choice
What would you rather burn in your house, a plant-based product or one made from crude oil? Head over to Rock Ridge Candles we create amazing soy candles.
It all boils down to some pretty important differences between soy and paraffin wax candles. When you understand the differences and the benefits of burning a soy wax candle, it’s a really easy decision to make.
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