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When you’re shopping for candles, you might wonder which kind is best: soy or paraffin candles. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but soy wax candles are the better option for many reasons. In this article, we’ll discuss why soy wax candles are the best for a cleaner, longer-lasting, and more natural candle experience.

What is Soy Wax?

Soy wax is made from soybean oil, which is obtained from soybeans. The soybeans are processed to extract the oil and then converted into wax. Soy wax is natural and non-toxic, so it is safe to use in candles. It’s also a plant-based product, so it is derived from a renewable resource, so it is an excellent option for individuals who wish to be more eco-friendly.

Why Soy Wax is Preferable for Candles?

Soy Wax Candles Last Longer

One of the great things about soy candles is that they last longer than paraffin candles. Because soy wax is heavier and denser than paraffin, it burns slower. That means you get to enjoy your candle for much longer. On average, soy candles last 30% to 50% longer than paraffin candles. So you won’t have to replace candles as frequently, and you’ll have more fun with each one.

Soy Wax Retains Scent Longer

If you’re a fan of candles that have a wonderful scent, soy wax is ideal for you. Soy candles retain fragrance longer than paraffin candles. The reason for this is that soy wax is heavier, so the scent molecules are contained within it and don’t evaporate as quickly. With paraffin candles, the scent disappears much quicker because the wax is lighter. So, if you want a candle that fills your home with a lovely smell for hours, soy wax is the best choice.

Soy Wax Emits Less Soot

All candles produce some soot, but soy candles produce a lot less than paraffin candles. With time, soot settles on your candle jar and makes it look dirty. Soot can stain walls, curtains, and other items in your house. Soy wax produces lighter soot that’s much less noticeable, and because it burns cleaner, your space stays tidier. In fact, studies have shown that paraffin wax creates much more soot compared to soy wax.

Soy Wax is Better for Your Health

Since it’s non-toxic, soy wax won’t release harmful chemicals into the air when it’s burned. However, paraffin candles are made from petroleum (a type of oil). Paraffin candles can release some harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene when they burn, and like most other chemicals, they’re not good for you. Therefore, if you are in search of a cleaner and safer candle, soy wax is the better choice.

Soy Wax Is More Environmentally Friendly

Soy wax is made from soybeans, which are a renewable resource. This means that growing soybeans for candles doesn’t harm the planet as much as using petroleum-based products like paraffin. On top of that, soy wax is biodegradable, so it breaks down naturally when it’s disposed of. If you’re trying to be more eco-conscious, switching to soy wax candles is an easy way to make a difference.

Soy Wax Is Easier to Clean 

If you’ve ever spilled candle wax, you know that it can be a pain to clean up. Soy wax, however, is a lot easier to clean than paraffin wax. In case you spill soy wax, you can mostly clean it using soap and water. Paraffin wax can be a lot more difficult to clean and might need special cleansers. So, if you’re someone who worries about candle spills, soy wax is a more hassle-free option.

What is Paraffin Wax?

Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, which is a form of crude oil. Once the oil is pumped out of the ground, it is refined and converted into products such as gasoline, lubricants, and wax. The wax that is created is used in candles, among other products such as crayons and wax paper.

While paraffin candles burn hot and fill the air with a wonderful fragrance, they have some negative aspects. First, paraffin is not a renewable product, and the production of paraffin wax can be harmful to the earth. Paraffin candles also burn quickly, so they are not as long-lasting as soy candles.

Pros and Cons of Paraffin Wax

• Burns More Quickly: Paraffin candles will burn more quickly than soy candles, so they won’t last as long.
• More Soot Produced: Paraffin candles will create more soot, which can get on your furniture and walls.
• Petroleum-Based: Because paraffin is petroleum-based, it’s not as environmentally friendly as soy wax, which is plant-based.

Although paraffin candles are safe to burn, they’re not the most environmentally friendly or clean, long-lasting candle option.

Why You Should Opt for Soy Wax Candles?

So why is soy wax the superior option for candles? Here’s a quick rundown of the top reasons:

• Longer Burn Time:  Soy candles have a longer burn time than paraffin candles.
• Better Scent Retention: Soy wax has better Scent Retention, so your candles will last longer with better scent.
• Less Soot: Soy candles produce less soot, keeping your home less dirty and healthier.
• Healthier and Safer: Soy wax is non-toxic; it won’t release unsafe chemicals into the air like paraffin will.
• Environmentally Friendly: Soy wax is created from renewable sources and is biodegradable, so it’s a more eco-friendly option.

Soy wax candles are natural, long-lasting, and safe. They’re better for your health, better for the environment, and they offer a much more enjoyable candle experience. Therefore, the next time you are shopping for a candle, opt for soy wax. Your home and the planet will thank you!

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