Soy Wax vs. Paraffin Wax: Which is Best for Candle Melts?
When it comes to candle making, the age-old debate of soy wax vs. paraffin wax continues on. Soy wax, made from natural soybeans, is all the rage today thanks to its eco-friendly vibe and clean burn. Meanwhile, paraffin wax, a classic derived from petroleum, still holds its ground with candle enthusiasts for being budget-friendly and super versatile. The choice between these two isn’t just about the wax itself; it’s about everything from how long your candle will burn to the way it scents your space, and yes, even the environmental impact.
Nowadays, with everyone trying to make more natural choices, soy wax has a lot of love for being renewable. But don’t count out paraffin wax yet; it carries it’s own with its strong scent throw and longevity, making it a staple in many households. In this article, I will dive deep into the nitty-gritty of soy vs. paraffin, weighing the pros and cons to help you determine the best fit for your candle-burning needs.
What is Soy Wax?
Soy wax is a natural, plant-based wax made from soybean oil. It is biodegradable, renewable, and a more sustainable alternative to paraffin wax. Because soy wax is derived from soybeans, it supports local farmers and reduces reliance on petroleum-based products.
How is Soy Wax Sold?
Soy wax is most commonly sold in the following forms:
– Flakes: These are the most popular and widely available form. It is easy to measure, melt quickly, and mix well with additives like fragrances and dyes.
– Pellets: Similar to flakes, pellets are convenient and often used for precise measurements.
– Blocks/Slabs: Can also be sold in solid blocks or slabs. This is less common since it requires cutting or breaking into smaller pieces before melting.
– Pre-blended: Some soy wax is sold pre-blended with additives to achieve specific properties, such as a higher melting point or better fragrance throw.
Flakes and pellets are the most user-friendly and versatile forms, especially for beginners.
Pros and Cons of Soy Wax
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Burns clean with minimal soot | Can be more expensive than paraffin wax |
| Made from renewable, biodegradable soybeans | Has a softer texture, making it less ideal for some candle types |
| Long-lasting burn time | May require additives for better scent throw |
| More eco-friendly and sustainable | |
| Releases fragrance evenly for a balanced scent throw | |
| Safer for indoor air quality |
What is Paraffin Wax?
Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum refining. It is widely used in the candle industry because it is inexpensive and readily available. However, since it is derived from fossil fuels, paraffin wax contributes to environmental concerns, including carbon emissions and non-renewable resource consumption.
How is Paraffin Wax Sold?
– Pellets/Beads: These are compact and easy to measure, making them popular for large-scale manufacturing and home candle-making.
– Flakes: Similar to pellets, flakes are easy to work with, melt quickly, and are widely available for crafting.
– Blocks/Slabs: Paraffin wax is often sold in larger solid blocks or slabs, which need to be cut or broken into smaller pieces before use. This form is common for industrial purposes.
– Pre-blended Varieties: Some paraffin wax is sold already mixed with additives or other waxes to enhance specific properties, such as scent throw or burn quality.
Pellets and flakes tend to be more user-friendly for DIY projects due to their manageable size and quick melting characteristics.
Pros and Cons of Paraffin Wax
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheaper and widely available | Derived from petroleum, making it non-renewable |
| Strong scent throw | Produces more soot, which can stain walls and furniture |
| Works well for various candle types, including pillars and votives | Releases toxins like benzene and toluene when burned |
| Can produce a smooth, glossy finish | Burns faster than soy wax, meaning a shorter candle lifespan |
Differences Between Soy and Paraffin Wax
| Feature | Soy Wax | Paraffin Wax |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Natural, made from soybeans | Petroleum byproduct |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly, renewable | Less eco-friendly, non-renewable |
| Burn Time | Longer | Shorter |
| Scent Throw | Moderate | Strong |
| Cleanliness | Burns cleaner, less soot | More soot, can release toxins |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | Typically cheaper |
Choosing the right candle wax can make a significant difference in the quality of your home’s air, the longevity of your candles, and the impact on the environment. At Satisfying Scents, we are committed to using soy wax because of its many benefits, from cleaner burning to sustainability. By opting for soy wax candles, you can enjoy a safer, eco-friendly, and high-quality home fragrance experience.
At Satisfying Scents, quality is my top priority. That’s why I use soy wax for all my candles. They give off a strong, balanced scent without being too much. Plus, they burn clean and last longer.
