Soy Wax In Candles And Wax Melts: Why It’s So Popular

In the world of candle and wax melt crafting, there’s a lively discussion that often lights up: should makers use soy wax or paraffin wax? On one side, we have soy wax, celebrated for its green credentials and gentleness on the planet. On the other, there’s paraffin wax, a long-time favourite for its bright burn and sturdy performance. But as more folks lean towards natural and eco-friendly options, soy wax shines brighter in the spotlight. This growing preference for soy wax isn’t just a trend; it’s a reflection of a deeper desire to choose products that are kinder to our earth and healthier for our homes.

What is Soy Wax?

Soy wax is a type of wax made from soybeans, making it a vegetable-based wax. Think of it as a natural gift from soybeans that we turn into soy candles and soy wax melts. The journey of soy wax starts in the fields, where soybeans grow until they’re ready to be harvested. After picking, these beans are cleaned, cracked open, and pressed to extract their oil. This oil then goes through a process called hydrogenation, which changes it into the solid form we know as soy wax.

What’s really cool about soy wax is that it comes from a renewable resource – soybeans! These little beans pack a big punch, not just as a food source but also as an efficient crop that can be replanted and harvested over and over again. Plus, they’re pretty kind to our planet, using less land and water compared to some other crops.

But not all soy wax is created equal. The best kind of soy wax is the kind that’s ethically and responsibly sourced. This means paying attention to how and where the soybeans are grown, ensuring they don’t harm the environment or the communities that grow them. Choosing candles and wax melts made with this kind of soy wax helps support a healthier planet and a fairer agricultural system. So, when you light up a soy wax candle, you’re not just enjoying a cosy atmosphere; you’re also casting a vote for a greener and more ethical world.

Advantages of Soy Wax

Health and Safety

Soy wax takes the win again when it comes to keeping things clean and healthy, especially compared to paraffin wax. Here’s why soy wax is the healthier choice for your home:

Non-Toxic Properties

Soy wax is like the friendly neighbor that never causes trouble. It’s made from soybeans, which means it’s natural and doesn’t bring any nasty chemicals to the party. Paraffin wax, on the other hand, is a bit like that neighbor who’s always causing a stir. It’s made from petroleum and can release some unwanted chemicals when it burns.

Better for Indoor Air Quality

Burning soy wax candles is kind of like choosing a fresh breeze over a smoggy day. They burn cleaner, meaning they don’t release as much soot or smoke into your home. This is great news for your air quality. Paraffin candles can leave behind a bit of a mess in the air, which isn’t the best for keeping your living space fresh and clean.

Kinder to Your Lungs

Since soy wax is non-toxic and burns cleaner, it’s much kinder to your respiratory system. Think of it as a gentle, soothing presence that doesn’t overwhelm or irritate your lungs. With no carcinogens, toxins, or major pollutants to worry about, soy wax candles are a breath of fresh air – literally. In contrast, the stuff that paraffin candles can emit might make your lungs work a bit harder than they should.

Environmental Benefits

Soy wax is like the superhero of the candle world, especially when we talk about its powers for the environment. It’s made from soybeans, which are not only a renewable resource but also have a smaller carbon footprint compared to its arch-nemesis, paraffin wax. Paraffin wax, on the other hand, is made from fossil fuels, which are definitely not renewable and not too kind to our planet.

Here’s a simple table to show you how soy wax and paraffin wax compare in terms of their environmental impact:

Choosing soy wax candles isn’t just about the warm glow they provide. It’s also a big thumbs up to being more eco-friendly. Soy wax burns cleaner, meaning it doesn’t release as much soot or harmful chemicals into the air. Plus, because soybeans can be grown over and over again, using soy wax helps reduce the demand for fossil fuels, making it a sustainable option for the earth.

The cherry on top? When soy wax is responsibly sourced, it means that the soybeans are grown in a way that doesn’t harm the environment or the people farming them. This kind of care ensures that we’re not just taking from the planet but giving back to it, helping reduce our environmental impact even further. So, by choosing candles made with soy wax, you’re lighting up a path to a greener world.

Performance and Quality

When it comes to performance and quality, soy wax is kind of like the marathon runner of the wax world -it goes the distance, and it does so cleanly and effectively.

Longer Burn Time

One of the coolest things about soy wax is that it doesn’t rush through its performance. It takes its time, burning slower than paraffin wax. This means that your soy wax candle is like a long-lasting battery, giving you more cosy, candle-lit hours compared to a paraffin wax candle of the same size. More bang for your buck, right?

Clean Burn Experience

Soy wax candles are like the clean eaters of the candle world. They burn cleanly, meaning they produce minimal soot. This is great because it keeps your walls, ceilings, and the air in your home cleaner. You know how some candles leave a black residue on the glass or nearby surfaces? Soy wax candles are much less likely to do that, so your home stays cleaner.

Scent Throw Effectiveness

“Scent throw” is a fancy way of saying how well a candle fills a room with its fragrance. Soy wax is like the friend who knows just the right amount to share in a conversation – not too overpowering but definitely noticeable. Soy wax candles often provide a more even and pleasant scent throw compared to paraffin. They release the scent gradually and evenly, making your space smell great without overwhelming your senses. Paraffin candles can sometimes release the scent in a more intense burst, which might not be as gentle or as evenly distributed.

Ease of Use and Versatility

When it comes to using soy wax, think of it as the friendly, easy-going type that gets along with everyone and everything. Whether you’re a candle-making pro or just love using them, soy wax has some pretty neat perks in terms of ease of use and versatility.

Cleaning Advantages

Ever had a candle spill and thought, “Well, that’s not coming out”? Soy wax spills are way less of a headache. Because soy wax is water-soluble, cleaning it up is as easy as using some warm water and soap. Paraffin wax, on the other hand, is like that stubborn stain that refuses to leave, requiring more elbow grease to remove from fabrics or surfaces.

Versatility in Candle and Melt Making

Soy wax doesn’t just stick to one style; it’s like the fashion-forward friend who looks good in everything. This wax works beautifully in a variety of candle and wax melt forms, whether you’re into tealights that add a subtle glow, pillars that stand tall and proud, or votives that create a cosy ambience. Soy wax holds colour and scent well, so it’s great for crafting candles that not only light up the room but also smell amazing.

Beyond Candles

Soy wax’s talents don’t end with candles and wax melts. This versatile wax also stars in other roles, such as in soy crayons that glide smoothly across paper, in lotion bars that nourish your skin, and in lip balms that keep your lips soft. Its natural, gentle formula makes it a fantastic choice for products that come in contact with your skin.

Soy Wax for Vegans and Eco-Conscious Consumers

Soy wax is a real game-changer for folks who live by vegan and eco-conscious values. It’s like finding out your favourite snack is not only delicious but also super healthy.

A Vegan and Cruelty-Free Choice

For vegans and anyone committed to cruelty-free living, soy wax fits the bill perfectly. Since it’s made from soybeans, it doesn’t involve any animal products or by-products, which means it aligns with a compassionate lifestyle. Choosing soy wax candles is a way to ensure that your home ambiance is created ethically and kindly. It’s like wearing a comfy, ethical sweater for your soul – warm, cosy, and guilt-free.

Enhanced with Natural Essential Oils

Now, imagine combining the clean, green power of soy wax with the natural magic of essential oils. This duo is like the superhero team of the aromatherapy world. Botanical candles or botanical soy wax melts infused with natural essential oils can transform your space with soothing, uplifting, or refreshing scents, all while sticking to those vegan and eco-friendly principles. Whether you’re looking to relax with some lavender or get energized with citrus, soy wax and essential oils make it happen in the most natural way possible.

Choosing Responsibly Sourced Soy Wax

As the demand for soybeans grows, so does the pressure on the land. In some parts of the world, forests are being cut down to make way for soy farms, leading to loss of biodiversity and habitat. Plus, soybean farming can contribute to soil erosion, stripping the land of its topsoil and nutrients. It’s like taking away the Earth’s protective layer and leaving it bare and vulnerable.

Given these concerns, picking candles and wax melts made from responsibly sourced soy wax isn’t just good; it’s crucial. Here’s why:

• Supports Sustainable Farming: Opting for responsibly sourced soy wax helps promote farming practices that are kinder to the Earth, preserving forests and keeping the soil healthy.
• Protects Ecosystems: By choosing products that avoid contributing to deforestation, you’re voting for the protection of wildlife and their habitats.
• Encourages Ethical Practices: Responsibly sourced soy wax often comes from farms that prioritize workers’ rights and community well-being, ensuring that the people behind the product are treated fairly.
• Reduces Environmental Impact: Responsible sourcing means less soil erosion and better land use, helping to maintain the planet’s health for future generations.

You Deserve Better!

Now, hopefully, you understand why we at Snug Scent have chosen soy wax for our botanical wax melts and candles. It’s not just a matter of preference; it’s about aligning with our commitment to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle – not just for us, but for the planet too.

Choosing soy wax candles and wax melts isn’t just about enjoying their glow and fragrance; it’s about making a conscious decision to support products that have a positive impact. Every time you light a Snug Scent soy candle or soy wax melt, you’re not just setting a mood; you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. It’s these small, responsible choices in our everyday consumer habits that add up to big changes for our health and the health of our planet. Your lungs, your furniture and the Planet will thank you!