FAQs About Soy Wax Candles

Soy wax candles have gained popularity in recent years as a natural and eco-friendly alternative to traditional paraffin wax candles. If you’re curious about soy wax candles but have some questions, this article aims to answer the most frequently asked questions to help you make informed choices.

What is soy wax?

Soy wax is a vegetable wax derived from soybean oil, making it a natural and renewable resource. It’s created through a process of hydrogenation of soybean oil, which transforms it into a solid form suitable for candle making.

1. Are soy wax candles better than paraffin wax candles?

• No, they are not.  See our related article.

2. Do soy wax candles scent the room effectively?

Yes, soy wax candles can subtly scent a closed room. They hold onto fragrance oils well, which means they can release a pleasant aroma when burned. However, the effectiveness of scent throw (how well the scent fills a room) can vary depending on factors like the quality of the fragrance oils used and the size of the candle.

3. Are soy wax candles safe to use?

To ensure safety, it’s essential to follow general candle safety guidelines, such as trimming the wick before each use and placing the candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface.

4. Do soy wax candles produce smoke?

Soy wax candles should not produce smoke when burned properly. If a candle is producing smoke, it could be due to issues such as an improperly trimmed wick, drafty conditions, or an incorrect wick size. Trim the wick to about half a centimetre before lighting to prevent excessive smoke.

5. Are soy wax candles more expensive?

Soy wax candles can be more expensive than paraffin wax candles due to the cost of soybean oil and the production process. However, the price difference can vary depending on factors such as the size of the candle and the quality of the fragrance oil used. Some consumers are willing to pay a premium for soy wax candles.

6. Can soy wax be used for aromatherapy?

Yes, soy wax can be used to make aromatherapy candles if the soy wax is scented with essential oils or specific fragrance blends designed for relaxation, stress relief, or other therapeutic purposes. Ensure that the candles are labeled as suitable for aromatherapy if you intend to create candles for this purpose.

7. How should soy wax candles be stored?

Store soy wax candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This prevents the candles from melting or warping. Keep them in their original packaging or airtight containers to preserve their fragrance oil content.

8. Are there any disadvantages to using soy wax?

While some people prefer soy wax candles, some potential disadvantages include:

• Fragrance variability: The scent throw of soy wax candles can vary based on factors like the quality of the fragrance oil and variations in different people’s olfactory perception.  Some people will respond strongly to a certain top note or base note, while others might hardly perceive these notes.
  
• Price:  Soy wax is generally more expensive than paraffin wax.
• Soy allergies: While rare, some individuals may be allergic to soy.  Be careful when using soy wax to make massage candles.  It is advisable to speak to your soy wax supplier for guidelines.
  

9. Do soy wax candles have a longer or shorter burn time compared to paraffin wax candles?

Paraffin wax candles have a far superior burning time compared to soy wax candles of the same size. Soy wax candles truly are a luxury product.  In our opinion, paraffin wax is a far superior material for candle making.

10. Are soy wax candles easy to clean if they spill?

Soy wax is relatively easy to clean compared to paraffin wax. If a soy wax candle spills, you can usually clean it up by scraping it off once set.

11. Can soy wax candles be used outdoors?

Soy wax candles can be used outdoors, but their performance may be affected by environmental factors such as wind and temperature. It’s important to protect the candle from drafts and to place it on a stable surface to ensure an even burn.

12. Can soy wax be coloured and moulded?

Yes, soy wax can be coloured with suitable high quality candle dye flakes.  Some soy waxes can be moulded.  However, paraffin wax is a far better choice if you would like to create moulded candles.  Candle Deli’s soy wax is soft and creamy.  Our soy wax is specifically designed to hold fragrance well and therefore should be used only in containers.   Soft soy waxes, i.e. with a low melting point, should not be moulded.

13. Do soy wax candles produce less soot than other types of candles?

No.  Regularly trim the candle wick if you would like to minimise soot.

14. Can soy wax candles be used for decorative purposes?

Yes, soy wax candles are often used as decorative elements in home décor.  A beautiful soy candle strategically displayed can create a stylish  for decorative purposes due to their aesthetic appeal and availability in various designs. They can enhance the ambiance of a room and serve.

15. How can I make sure I’m buying high-quality soy wax?

To ensure you’re purchasing high-quality soy wax:

• Look for 100% pure soy wax
• Use quality fragrance oils when creating soy wax candles.
  
• Speak to your wax supplier if you would like additional product specifcations or usage guidelines.
  
• Do not add any additives like dyes if you prefer making a completely natural product.

16. Are there any special considerations for burning soy wax candles?

When burning soy wax candles, it’s important to:

• Trim the wick to about half a centimetre before each use to prevent smoking and ensure an even burn.
• Allow the candle to create a full melt pool (liquefied wax to the edge of the container) on the first burn to prevent tunneling.
• Avoid burning candles for more than 4 hours at a time to prevent overheating and ensure safety.

Conclusion

Soy wax candles are a luxury alternative to paraffin wax candles. They’re a popular choice for those prioritizing home fragrance products, like scented soy wax candles and scented soy wax melts.