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What are Soy Candles?

Shannon Kietzman
Shannon Kietzman

Soy candles are a special type of candle made from soy wax. Soy wax provides a natural alternative to paraffin wax, which is the traditional type of wax used to make candles. These candles are available in every type of traditional shape, such as taper, votive, pillar, and floating candles.

Many people prefer soy candles to paraffin candles because soy burns cleaner than paraffin wax. This means that the candles produce very little soot and smoke. They are also preferred to beeswax candles because they can be created in any color or fragrance desired. Soy candles are the preferred choice for aromatherapy, because the essential oils in the candle are not corrupted by soot or by smoke. In addition, soy wax holds essential oils just as well as paraffin.

Soy candles.
Soy candles.

Many candle aficionados prefer soy candles because they are better for the environment than paraffin candles. Paraffin candles are made of petroleum, which is a nonrenewable fossil fuel. Soybeans, on the other hand, can be easily grown and do not cause harm to the environment when they are used. In addition, the candles are biodegradable and have minimal impact on the quality of air when burned.

A soy candle.
A soy candle.

Soy candles can also last up to twice as long as paraffin candles when burned because they burn at a cooler temperature. They also have a lower melting point. This causes the candles to burn more slowly, and also helps to spread essential oils more quickly through the air when used for aromatherapy. The cooler burning rate also helps prevent the tunnel that sometimes forms in the middle of a candle as it burns.

Soy beans.
Soy beans.

Some citizens of the United States prefer to purchase candles made from soy wax in order to help support their county. Since the majority of soybeans are grown in the United States, purchasing this type of candle supports farmers and the economy. Soy candles are not usually available at most retail outlets, but can be purchased from specialty candle shops, health food stores, or online.

Discussion Comments

LisaLou

It seems like I remember reading that you can't make soy pillar candles - something about the wax not being molded into the pillar shape. If you see pillar candles that claim to be soy candles, they are probably a blend, and not pure soy.

If you buy a 100% pure soy candle, you will pay more for it than a paraffin candle. Soy candles have become quite popular and have many benefits, but I would make sure you know whether you are getting pure soy or a blend before purchasing them.

Mykol

The first time I burned a soy candle I was hooked. I purchased some at a craft show and was impressed by how much longer they were supposed to burn and that they would not leave a black ring around the jar after being burned.

Another great benefit of soy candles is how fragrant they are. I don't know if it is the particular scents I bought or not, but it just seemed like the whole room smelled good.

I have burned some soy candles that did leave a small black ring and was told this might be because of the metal in the wick. Either way, there is much less of that than when burning a paraffin candle.

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      Some people choose to make their own candles by buying whole sale essential oils and candle-making supplies.