Soy Candles - 10 Reasons Why They are the Smarter Choice

Lately, I've been noticing more and more of my friends and family making the switch to soy candles, and let me tell you - I am so on board with this trend! Not only are these little wonders a gorgeous way to add warmth and ambiance to any space, but they also come packed with a ton of benefits that make them a way better choice than those old-school paraffin candles. In fact, the popularity of soy candles has been steadily rising as people become more eco-conscious and seek out healthier, more sustainable options for their homes.

Let’s unpack what makes soy candles so special and why you need to add them to your home ASAP. Ready for some serious candle inspo? 🕯️

What Are Soy Candles, Anyway? 

Soy candles are candles made from - you guessed it - soy wax instead of the typical paraffin wax. This simple swap makes all the difference. Soy wax is derived from soybeans, which are a renewable and biodegradable crop. 🌱 So right off the bat, soy candles are a way more eco-friendly option than their paraffin counterparts.

But the benefits of soy candles don't stop there!. Soy wax burns cleaner, lasts longer, and even holds fragrances better than paraffin. Plus, soy candles are free from the harmful chemicals often found in traditional candles. 

Top 10 Reasons to Switch to Soy Candles

1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable 🌿 Soy wax is plant-based and biodegradable, which means it's a total win for the planet. Even better soy candles can create up to 90% less soot than regular candles. Talk about a clean burn! 🌍 Paraffin wax, on the other hand, is derived from petroleum, which is a non-renewable resource that contributes to environmental pollution. By choosing soy, you're making a conscious effort to reduce your carbon footprint and support more sustainable practices.
   
   
2. Longer Burn Time Soy wax burns slower and more evenly than paraffin, so your candles will last way longer. We're talking an average of 30-50% longer burn time! That means more value for your money and less waste in the long run.💸  No more constantly having to replace candles as they burn down - with soy, you can enjoy the ambiance for much longer.
   
   
3. Cleaner Burn  One of my favorite things about soy candles is how much cleaner they burn. No more gross black soot buildup on your walls or furniture - just a nice, even flame that keeps your air fresh and your space looking spotless. Paraffin candles, on the other hand, can release harmful toxins and contribute to indoor air pollution. Soy candles are a healthier choice for you and your family.
   
   

4. Better Scent Throw Soy wax is amazing at holding onto fragrance, so the scent of your candle will be rich, consistent, and fill the whole room. Goodbye, sad, weak candle scents! The even burn of soy wax also ensures that the fragrance is distributed evenly, so you can enjoy the full aroma from the first light to the very last flicker.

5. Non-Toxic  Paraffin candles can contain all kinds of nasty chemicals like lead and benzene, but soy wax is totally free of those toxins. That makes soy candles a must for homes with kids and pets, who are especially vulnerable to potentially harmful substances. You can light these babies with peace of mind, knowing you're creating a safe, healthy environment.
   
   

6. Renewable and Biodegradable Since soy wax comes from soybeans, it's a renewable, sustainable, and biodegradable material. Burning soy candles is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint and do your part for the planet. 🌍 Once the candle has burned down, the remaining wax can even be repurposed or composted. Compare that to paraffin, which is derived from fossil fuels and takes a toll on the environment.

7. Supports Local Farmers 🚜 A lot of the soy used in candles comes from local farms, so buying soy candles helps support those agricultural communities. It's a win-win for your home and the planet! By choosing soy, you're not only reducing your environmental impact, but you're also contributing to the livelihoods of hardworking farmers in your area.

8. Versatility in Scents and Designs Soy candles come in an amazing variety of natural, delightful fragrances, from relaxing lavender to energizing citrus. And the designs are super chic too, so you can find the perfect fit for your personal style and home decor. Whether you're looking for a simple, minimalist vibe or something more bold and statement-making, there's a soy candle out there for you.

9. Hypoallergenic😌 Soy wax is gentle on the skin and respiratory system, making it an excellent choice for people with allergies or sensitivities. Paraffin candles, on the other hand, can release irritating chemicals and fragrances into the air. Soy candles, with their clean-burning properties and lack of harsh additives, are a much safer option if you or your loved ones struggle with allergies or asthma.

10. Easy to Clean Spills and drips are just part of the candle-burning experience, but soy wax makes clean-up a breeze. Unlike stubborn paraffin wax, soy wax can be easily removed with just some soap and water. No more scrubbing at pesky stains or dealing with oily residue. Your surfaces will stay looking pristine, even after enjoying your favorite soy candle.

Convinced yet? Soy candles have so many incredible benefits, and if you're looking for some high-quality, eco-friendly soy candles to try, I highly recommend checking out the beautiful selection from The Handmade Soap Company. 

How to Choose the Right Soy Candle

Okay, so you're ready to dive into the world of soy candles - but how do you choose the perfect one for your needs? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Fragrance Selection 🌺 Soy candles come in a wide array of natural, mood-boosting fragrances, so you're sure to find one (or a few!) that speak to you. For a relaxing vibe, try calming scents like lavender or chamomile. Need an energizing pick-me-up? Go for something citrusy or minty. And don't forget about those cozy, comforting aromas like vanilla, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice. Take some time to explore the different fragrance options and choose ones that align with your personal preferences and the atmosphere you want to create in your space.

Quality Indicators ✨ When shopping for soy candles, look for ones made with 100% pure soy wax and natural wicks, like cotton or wood. Avoid candles that use paraffin wax or synthetic fragrances, as those can release harmful chemicals. You'll also want to check the candle label for any certifications or seals of approval, like being made with organic or sustainable ingredients. The higher the quality of the candle, the better it will burn and the more you'll be able to enjoy all the amazing benefits of soy.

 

What are you waiting for? Treat yourself (or a loved one!) to the gift of soy candles and experience the difference for yourself. Your home - and the planet - will thank you! 💚 And with a few easy candle care tips, you can make your soy candles last even longer, so you can enjoy their beautiful glow and soothing scents for even more time.

Proper Candle Care:

Trim Your Wick Before Each Use: Always trim the wick to about 0.5 cm (or ¼ inch) before lighting your candle. This helps prevent soot build-up and ensures a steady, even flame.

Allow a Full Melt Pool: On each burn, make sure the candle burns long enough for the entire top layer of wax to melt into a pool that reaches the edges of the container. This helps prevent tunnelling and ensures that your candle burns evenly all the way down.

Limit Burn Time to Preserve Fragrance: Try not to burn the candle for more than 3-4 hours at a time. Burning it for longer can cause the essential oils to evaporate too quickly and can affect the performance of the candle.

Keep Candles Away from Drafts: Position your candles away from windows, vents, and fans to ensure an even, consistent burn. Drafts can cause the flame to flicker and lead to uneven wax melting.

Extinguish Candles Properly: When you're done enjoying your candle, be sure to extinguish it properly by snuffing out the flame with a wick dipper or the lid of the container. Never blow out a candle, as this can cause hot wax to splash.

By following these simple candle care tips, you can maximize the lifespan and performance of your soy candles, ensuring you get the most out of their incredible benefits.