Are Soy Candles Better for You? A Comprehensive Guide to Safe Candles

Candles are more than just a source of light these days. They’re a cozy addition to our homes, a way to create a calming atmosphere, and often, a delightfully scented treat. But let’s face it—picking a candle isn’t as simple as it used to be. With so many options out there, which one do you choose?

If you’ve been hearing a lot about soy candles and wondering if they’re actually better for your home, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about soy wax, paraffin, and beeswax and why soy candles might be the way to go.

What Is Soy Wax?

Soy wax is a natural, plant-based wax made from soybeans, a renewable crop commonly grown in the United States. After harvesting, the beans are de-hulled and pressed for oil, which is then turned into wax. The leftover soybean flakes often become animal feed, so there’s minimal waste.

Because soy wax has a lower melting point, it burns more slowly and evenly than other waxes. It also holds fragrances exceptionally well, making it a popular choice for scented candles. Plus, it’s 100% vegan—no animal products involved.

Paraffin and Beeswax

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax, a by-product of fossil fuels, is still the most commonly used candle wax. It’s cheap and burns relatively well, but burning it can release soot and potentially harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene. If you’ve ever noticed black residue on your walls or in your candle jar, that’s often from paraffin soot.

Beeswax

Beeswax is another popular option. It’s a natural wax, but it’s not vegan—after all, it comes from bees. Beeswax can burn cleanly; however, it usually has a natural honey scent that might clash with other fragrances. Plus, large-scale production can raise ethical questions. If you do buy beeswax, make sure it’s certified cruelty-free and responsibly sourced.

6 Benefits of Soy Candles:

1. Renewable Resource

Soybeans grow fast—about three months from seed to harvest—and are widely cultivated in the U.S. Since soy wax is derived from plants, it’s a renewable resource. Using locally grown soy also reduces the carbon footprint compared to waxes that need long-distance shipping.

2. Cleaner Burning

Unlike paraffin, soy wax produces very little soot and fewer potentially harmful pollutants. This means better indoor air quality, especially for anyone with allergies or breathing issues. And yes, no more unsightly black residue on your walls!

3. Non-toxic and Biodegradable

Many paraffin candles contain carcinogens like benzene and toluene. Burning them releases these toxins into the air. In contrast, soy candles are non-toxic, and any leftover wax is completely biodegradable. It’s a win-win for you and the planet.

4. Vegan

Soy wax contains no animal products. If you’re following a vegan lifestyle or just want more eco-friendly choices, soy candles are the perfect fit.

5. Longer Burning Time

Because soy wax has a lower melting point, it burns more slowly. This often means you get more hours of glow compared to a paraffin candle of the same size. So even if soy candles sometimes cost a bit more, they can last you longer. Even the smallest candles we offer burn for around 35 hours. On the other hand, our largest candles from The Minimalist collection can last up to 60 hours.

6. Easier Cleanup

Ever spilled hot wax on a tablecloth? Soy wax usually comes out with just a bit of soap and warm water. Paraffin, on the other hand, can leave stains behind—definitely not fun to scrub off.

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FAQs About Soy Candles

Q: Do soy candles release any harmful chemicals?
A: While burning any candle releases tiny amounts of smoke and VOCs, soy candles generally emit far fewer chemicals compared to paraffin. In a well-ventilated room, it’s unlikely you’ll run into significant health issues from a soy candle.

Q: Are soy candles more expensive than paraffin candles?
A: They can be slightly pricier, but they also tend to burn longer, which can make them just as cost-effective in the long run.

Q: Do soy candles smell weaker than paraffin candles?
A: Actually, soy wax has a great scent throw thanks to its lower melting point. Fragrances in soy candles often disperse beautifully without being overpowering.

Q: Are soy candles good for people with allergies?
A: Since soy candles produce less soot and fewer airborne pollutants, they’re often gentler on the lungs and can be a better choice for those sensitive to indoor air quality.

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FAQs About ScentWick Candles

Q: What makes ScentWick Candles different from other soy candle brands?
A: At ScentWick Candles, we use only 100% pure soy wax grown right here in the U.S. We also incorporate non-toxic, clean fragrances and cotton wicks to ensure a cleaner and safer burn in every candle.

Q: Where Are ScentWick Candles Made?
A: We are a small business in Northwest Ohio. All of our candles, wax melts, room sprays, and reed diffusers are handmade in Toledo, Ohio.

Q: Can I buy ScentWick Candles in stores, or just online?
A: You can find our candles online on our official website and select local retailers. You can also frequently find us at local craft fairs, festivals, vendor events, and farmers' markets. Check our website and Facebook Page for the most up-to-date list of stockists near you and events! 

Q: Do you offer custom or seasonal scents?
A: Yes, we love experimenting! We regularly release limited edition and seasonal scents. And if you have a special request, we’re more than happy to discuss a custom order.

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Wrapping It Up

Are soy candles better for your home? In many ways, yes. They’re renewable, cleaner burning, non-toxic, and generally safer than paraffin alternatives. Plus, they’re vegan-friendly and often last longer. If you’re looking to bring warm, inviting light into your home without the worry of harsh chemicals, soy candles are an excellent choice.

Ready to swap out those old paraffin candles? Check out ScentWick Candles for a range of scents that are just as kind to your home as they are to the environment. Go ahead and light up—minus the guilt!