Making Soy Candles with a Microwave

Making candles at home is a lot of fun and it’s a skill that is also very easy to learn.

While initially it may seem complicated, the candle making process is pretty simple and there are also some shortcuts you can use to make things even easier.

For example, if you are going the eco-friendly route and are planning to make soy candles, you could melt the wax using a microwave.

In this guide, we explain how to make soy candles with a microwave and offer some other candle making hacks and safety tips to guide you along the way.

What are the benefits of soy candles?

Natural and eco-friendly

Soy wax candles are made from soybeans which are grown without pesticides and herbicides, making them an eco-friendlier choice.

Soybeans are also non-toxic, biodegradable and non-carcinogenic, while also being vegan-friendly, which means your candles will not contain any animal products or by-products.

Enhanced scent throw

Compared to paraffin wax candles, soy wax candles have a stronger scent throw, allowing you to get more from each burn.

The scent throw refers to how effectively the fragrance is released into the room once the candle has been lit. And because soy candles are better at holding their scent, this extends the life of the fragrance so you can enjoy its aroma for longer.

Cleaner burns

You’ll also benefit from a longer, cleaner burn with soy wax candles. Unlike paraffin candles, soy candles do not produce soot or emit smoke, which results in cleaner air around your home, so it is less likely to cause any respiratory issues.

Another big plus is that soy candles release fewer toxins and carbon dioxide into the air, so not only are they healthier for you and your family, but they are also kinder to the environment.

Cost effective

Cost is always a factor when it comes to buying candles and whilst soy wax candles are often slightly more expensive than paraffin candles, you should get better value for money in the long run.

Soy wax candles have a slower burn rate, which means you won’t have to replace them as often. You should also see less wax wastage, as they burn more evenly, so you get more from each session.

Can you melt candle wax in a microwave?

As we are discussing soy wax candles, perhaps a more specific question would be, “Can you melt soy wax in the microwave?”

The simple answer is yes – and using a microwave can make the candle making process much faster and convenient.

It’s especially helpful if you want to make a smaller batch of candles or a test candle to experiment and trial materials and ideas.

In the section below we’ll give you step-by-step instructions and some guidance on how long to heat wax in a microwave.

How to make soy candles with a microwave

If you love making candles at home, you can use our step-by-step guide on how to craft soy candles with a microwave.

Materials needed

• Microwave safe plastic or silicone jug or container (don’t use a glass jug, as the wax tends to get very hot and could potentially shatter the glass)
• 454g (16 ounces) of soy wax which is perfect for melting soy wax in a microwave.
• 28g (1 ounce) of fragrance oil or essential oil
• 3 x wick bars
• 3 x 227g (8 ounce) tins prepped with CD-18 wicks
• Weighing scale
• Stirring utensil
• Warning labels (if you intend to sell the candles)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Weigh the soy wax and place into a microwave-safe plastic or silicone container.
2. Put the container in the microwave and set to a high heat for five minutes (heating times can vary depending on the wattage, so when melting soy wax in a microwave keep a close eye on your wax and do not leave it unattended). Stir after every minute or so to promote even melting distribution.
3. Once the wax has melted, carefully remove the container using a towel or potholders. If the wax hasn’t fully melted, give it a quick stir and put it back into the microwave for 30 seconds and continue to observe. Repeat as needed.
4. When the wax has melted, place the container on a level surface and add 28g of fragrance oil or essential oil, before stirring for a few minutes, which will help the wax to cool.
5. With the wax cooled you can then pour it into the pre-prepared wicked tins, leaving a small space at the top to avoid spillages.
6. Use the wick bars to centre the wicks in the containers, and leave them to cool overnight.
7. In the morning, remove the wick bars and trim them down to about ¼ of an inch.
8. Place the lid onto the containers and leave the soy wax candles to cure for 1-2 weeks, as this will help to produce a strong, longer-lasting fragrance.

Tips and tricks

• Test the wax before making your candles, as experimenting a little will help you get the best results. This is especially helpful if you are using bulk-bought wholesale wax to make products for sale.
• When mixing the melting wax try not to stir too vigorously, as this can contribute to wax frosting on the tops and sides of soy candles.
• Slowly pour the wax into your containers to reduce the amount of air that gets into the wax, which can reduce ‘wet spots’ (the formation of air bubbles).
• If you see a ‘rough top’ appear – which is caused by rising air escaping from the surface of the candle - you can repour the melted wax over these parts.
• Similarly, if you notice any sinkholes (cracks or holes on the surface) you can fill these in using some more melted soy wax.

Safety Tips

• As stated above, do not use a glass container to melt your wax. Use a microwave safe plastic or silicone container to avoid potential heat-related accidents.
• Use safety goggles to protect your eyes and wear clothes with long sleeves and legs to protect your skin.
• Have a first aid kit to hand in case you need to deal with any minor injuries.
• Keep young children and pets away from your candle making space to reduce the risk of any burns or injuries.
• Take care when handling fragrance oils as they are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation. If using a fragrance oil for the first time, it’s a good idea to carry out a patch test to check its compatibility with your skin.
• Keeping your workspace as tidy as possible will help you feel more organised. Also do not leave your workspace unattended at any point during the candle making process.

Final thoughts

Making candles at home with a microwave can be a game changer, helping you avoid standing over a hot stove waiting for the wax to melt.

Whether you are using wholesale wax to make candles to sell or making candles for personal use at home, all you have to do is set the time, press a button and wait for the wax to melt.

Take a look at our tips and tricks section to avoid some of the common issues faced with soy candles, and read through our safety tips to protect yourself and those around you.