Soy Versus Paraffin: The Choice Is Clear

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If you are someone who enjoys the fresh scents of burning candles in your home, you likely have a preferred brand that you purchase regularly. However, did you know that there are new candles on the market that you may actually enjoy more? Soy candles are becoming increasingly popular among candle burners, and there are many good reasons why you may love them too. To help you figure out which candle would be best for your home and the environment, here is a side-by-side comparison of soy candles versus the most common generic candle, paraffin.

What Are They Made Of?

Most generic candles that people purchase are made of paraffin, a byproduct of the oil industry. Have you ever had a candle that left a soot mark on the cabinet that was above it or the wall beside it? Paraffin candles may smell delicious, but they actually have chemicals within them that could be harmful to your family or the environment, as is shown by soot trails. Soy candles, on the other hand, are made of natural soybeans (basically vegetable oil) and are scented with essential oils that burn clean, yet still pack a powerful fresh scent punch. 

How Long Do They Last?

Every candle size will burn for a different length of time, though some paraffin candles may say that they burn longer than soy. However, this is a bit of false advertising, since paraffin candles do not burn evenly and will eventually leave a thick layer of wax around the circumference of the container while the wick has tunneled down to the bottom. Are paraffin candle companies taking the leftover wax into account in their burn estimate? Soy candles burn evenly, allowing almost every ounce of wax to be used in the process. The actual burn time of soy and paraffin candles is very comparable, with some soy candles burning longer. 

How Much Do They Cost?

Soy candles are no more expensive than your run-of-the-mill paraffin candles, though they burn longer and are better for you. 

Overall, soy candles look and sound substantially better than generic paraffin candles. If you have not yet made the switch, maybe it's time. Next time you are at your favorite place to buy candles, take the time to find one that is 100% soy. Then sit back and enjoy your delicious-smelling home, knowing that the candle you are burning is all-natural. For more information, contact a company like Vintage Products.


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