Free Shipping within the US on orders over $100
At some point, you’ve probably turned down a random aisle in a home decor store and run into rows and rows of candles. These little wax lights come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, scents, and well, types of wax.
Two popular choices are regular (paraffin) candles and soy candles. But which one is the better pick for your home? Perhaps more importantly, which one is better for your health? Let’s take a deeper look at the difference between paraffin and soy candles and settle this once and for all.
Before we wade too far into the deep end, let's talk briefly about wax, the essence of candles. It's more than just a melting cylinder with a flame on top that makes your home smell dreamy. It affects how your candle burns, how long it lasts, and even how it impacts the environment.
Soy wax is, well, made from soybeans – humble yet versatile beans that pack a powerful punch. This natural, plant-based wax is renewable and biodegradable, making it an eco-conscious choice. Your soy candle begins its journey in a field of soybean plants swaying in the breeze.
On the other hand, we have paraffin wax, which has been used in candle production since the 1850s. It comes from the fossil fuel petroleum, which means it's not the most sustainable option. It’s a reliable workhorse that gets the job done, but it’s not winning any environmental awards.
Who doesn’t want their home to smell like an epic spa retreat or a tantalizing coffee shop? Most of us do, but not if it risks our health. So, how do soy and paraffin candles differ in terms of their health effects?
Soy candles: These are pretty clean-burning candles. Think of them as the marathon runners of candles – they go the distance without getting winded (or very smoky).
They release fewer soot and toxins into the air compared to paraffin versions. Many soy candles also use natural essential oils for fragrance, which is beneficial for anyone with allergies or sensitivities.
Regular candles: They can make your house smell great, but they aren't as clean as soy. They can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned – not exactly something you want to regularly breathe in.
It's sort of like letting a chain smoker plow through a pack in your living room. Consistent inhalation could lead to problems down the road.
More and more people are becoming passionate about protecting the planet’s future, so the environmental impact of candles is weighing on a lot of people’s minds. Let's size up soy and paraffin in the context of eco-friendliness.
Soy candles: These babies are advocates of Earth’s health. Soybeans are a renewable resource that can be grown and harvested annually. They're also frequently packaged in recyclable materials, which makes them even more attractive to eco-conscious consumers.
But it's not just about packaging and raw materials. Since soy candles burn cleaner than paraffin, they end up releasing less soot and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Soy candles are the hybrid cars of home fragrance.
Regular candles: They’re classic, but they’re certainly not as clean as soy. Paraffin wax is the main ingredient of these candles, but it’s a byproduct of refining petroleum.
Extracting and processing petroleum takes a big toll on the planet, contributing to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, paraffin candles generally produce more soot than soy candles, negatively impacting air quality.
Now that that’s all out of the way, let’s have some fun. How do these candles compare when it comes to filling your home with those oh-so-delicious scents?
Soy candles: After lighting a soy candle, your entire living room transforms into a lavender field in Provence or a cozy cabin filled with warm vanilla and cinnamon aromas.
That's the beauty of soy wax. The lower melting point allows fragrance oils to blend seamlessly, releasing a consistently strong scent that fills the room. The fragrance of soy candles helps create an immersive sensory experience.
Regular candles: Don't count them out just yet! Regular candles offer seriously intoxicating scents, especially if you like bold, heady smells. That said, paraffin wax’s higher melting point can sometimes cause the fragrance to get a little lost in translation.
It's like the fragrance is trying to sing a beautiful song, but it gets a little muffled by the wax. You might still get a good whiff, but it might not be as clear or as vibrant as the scent you get from a soy candle.
Let's be honest, we all want our candles to last as long as a Netflix binge-watching session, right? Nobody wants to be left in the dark (literally) just as their candle is getting good. So, how do soy and regular candles compare in the burn time department?
Soy candles: The slow and steady tortoises of the candle world, are known for their long-lasting burn.
You light a soy candle on a Friday night, and it's still flickering away when you wake up on Sunday morning. That's the power of soy wax. It burns at a lower temperature than paraffin wax, meaning it takes its sweet time to melt.
This slow and steady burn not only gives you more hours of enjoyment from your candle but also ensures a more even burn pool, preventing that dreaded tunneling effect.
Regular candles: Regular candles are the hares of the candle world. They burn faster and hotter, which seems like a good thing, but it also means they fizzle out sooner. Think of sprinting versus jogging – sprinters might get ahead initially, but the jogger will ultimately go the distance.
Of course, cost is always a consideration. Let's see how these candles compare in terms of price.
Soy candles: The fancy-pants of the candle world, tend to be a bit pricier than their regular counterparts. Think of them as the organic produce of candles – you're paying a premium for higher-quality ingredients.
The soy wax itself is more expensive than paraffin wax, and many soy candle makers also use natural essential oils for fragrance, which can add to the cost.
But hey, you get what you pay for, right? Soy candles often burn longer, so you might not have to replace them as often, which could balance out the cost over time.
Regular candles: They're generally more affordable, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. However, their shorter burn time means you'll likely be replacing them more frequently, which could end up costing you more in the long run.
It's like buying cheap shoes – they might be easy on your wallet at first, but they'll wear out faster and you'll end up spending more in the long run.
Drumroll, please! But wait, there's no clear-cut winner in this fragrant face-off. It's like choosing between a cozy cabin getaway and a luxurious beach vacation – both have their perks, and the best choice ultimately depends on what you're looking for.
If you're the eco-conscious type who values clean air and a healthy home, soy candles are your knight in shining armor.
They're the sustainable superstar, made from renewable resources and burning cleaner than their paraffin counterparts. Plus, they often come in recyclable or reusable containers, making them a feel-good choice for both your home and the planet.
Winner: Soy candles
But if you're ballin' on a budget (hey, we've all been there), regular candles might be your go-to.
They're the budget-friendly option, offering a wide range of scents at a fraction of the cost of soy candles. Sure, they might not be as eco-friendly or burn as cleanly, but they can still add a touch of ambiance and fragrance to your space without breaking the bank.
Winner: Regular candles
For those who crave a truly immersive fragrance experience and want their candles to burn for hours on end, soy candles reign supreme.
They offer a stronger, truer scent that fills your home with delicious aromas, and they burn slower and longer, giving you more bang for your buck in the long run.
Winner: Soy candles
So, there you have it. The choice is yours, my friend. Weigh your priorities, consider your budget, and let your nose guide you to the perfect candle companion for your home.
Ultimately, the best candle for you is the one that best suits your needs and values. Consider what's most important to you – health, sustainability, fragrance, or cost – and choose accordingly.
And remember, there's no shame in mixing and matching! You might love the long-lasting scent of a soy candle in your bedroom but opt for a more affordable regular candle in your bathroom. It's all about finding what works best for you and your home.
I hope this deep dive into the world of soy and regular candles helps you make an informed decision and find the perfect flickering flames to illuminate your home!