4 min read / 4 July 2023 / Laura Garvin Gomez
Benefits Of Using Soy Wax for Candles & Wax Melts
Uncover the advantages of choosing soy wax for your candles and wax melts in our informative blog.
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It’s important to learn if there are any soy wax benefits you should be aware of before deciding which type of wax to use for candles or melts.
You’ll find it mentioned in a host of candle making and wax melt recipes, although there is usually only a passing reference about why it has been chosen. So, to make things easier, we’ve decided to gather together all the information you need to know about soy wax to see if it ticks all the right boxes for you.
What is soy wax?Soy wax is vegetable wax derived from the oil of soybeans and is mostly used in candles. When soybeans are made into wax, they are harvested and cleaned before being cracked, de-hulled and rolled into flakes. The oil is extracted from the flakes before being hydrogenated, which involves the conversion of some unsaturated fatty acids into saturated fatty acids. This creates a higher melting point for the oil so it can remain solid at room temperature. |
What are the benefits of soy wax?
Some of the main benefits of using soy wax for candles and melts include:
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly: One of the main soy wax benefits is that it is 100% natural and does not contain any toxins, carcinogens, or pollutants. This makes them an eco-friendly option and ideal for anyone with allergies, as they are less likely to set them off. Soy wax is vegetable-based, so it does not give off any harmful byproducts whilst being burnt or produce black soot, which is also good news for curtains and walls as they cannot be stained.
- Lower melting point: Compared to paraffin wax candles and melts, soy wax has a lower melting point, which gives it a slower burn, so it lasts longer. This also benefits oils, as it helps to create a large melt pool, so when combined with a lower heat, the scent can be stronger and even more enjoyable.
- Natural and vegan-based: Soy wax is essentially a hydrogenated vegetable oil (derived from soybeans) that turns solid at room temperature. If you have the right equipment and ingredients, you could also choose to make your own soy wax from scratch at home.
- Easy to clean after use: After they have finished burning, some waxes can be very difficult to clean from candle holders and oil burners. However, because soy wax is biodegradable it can be much easier to clean, and you only need to use warm, soapy water to wash it away.
- Better value for money: Many people buy paraffin wax because it is usually the cheaper option, but when you factor in the toxins it produces and its faster burn rate compared to soy wax, it doesn’t prove to be as cost effective. Whilst you may initially spend a little more for soy wax, you are paying for an eco-friendly wax that will also last for longer.
Are soy candles better to use at home?
Not only is soy wax a natural, non-toxic option that offers better value for money, but there are also plenty of soy wax benefits you can enjoy by burning candles or wax melts:
- Relax and unwind: When you light a soy wax candle or melt you can enjoy your favourite essential oil or fragrance oil in the comfort of your own home. Candles are also extremely relaxing without any fragrance, helping to create a soothing atmosphere you can relax in after a long day.
- Set the mood: There are few things better than lighting a soy wax candle, with the slow burning flame instantly helping to change the ambiance. Whether you want to set the mood for a romantic candle-lit dinner or just want more mellow lighting in the room, you can do so in an instant.
- Great for mental health: If you are burning soy wax candles that contain an essential oil, you can experience the aromatherapeutic benefits they are able to offer. For example, Lavender Essential Oil is great for bringing down stress and anxiety levels and is also used by many people before bedtime to relax and encourage a better night’s sleep.
- Add a little style: Soy candles are also wonderful home décor items that allow you to add even more style to your home without having to spend a fortune. Whether you burn them on decadent candle stands in the living room or want to create a spa haven in the bathroom, you’re certainly not short of options.
From being a 100% natural material and kinder to the environment to offering a longer burn time (compared to paraffin candles) and better value for money, soy wax has a lot going for it. When combined with essential oils or fragrance oils it can also produce a host of aromatherapeutic benefits and a touch of style for any room. So, when you weigh everything up, it’s pretty difficult to find a reason not to use soy wax ahead of any other type of wax.
