The difference between soy, paraffin, and beeswax candles

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The day is finally winding down.

You sink into your favorite cozy chair, a book in hand, wrapped in a soft, well-loved blanket. The flicker of candlelight casts a warm glow, filling the air with a calming scent that signals to your mind and body—it’s time to relax. But have you ever stopped to wonder what’s actually burning in that candle beside you?

Not all candles are created equal. The wax they’re made from—soy, paraffin, or beeswax—can impact your indoor air quality, the environment, and even the way you feel during your quiet moments of self-care. Let’s break it down so you can choose candles that align with your values and create a more sustainable, mindful space.

Paraffin, Soy, and Beeswax: What’s the Difference?

Paraffin Wax: The Conventional Choice

Paraffin wax is the most common candle material, but it’s derived from petroleum—yes, the same fossil fuel used for gasoline. While paraffin candles are often inexpensive and widely available, they can release toxins like benzene and toluene when burned, affecting indoor air quality. If you’ve ever noticed black soot gathering around the rim of a candle jar or on your walls, it’s likely from paraffin.

The Bottom Line: Paraffin candles may be budget-friendly, but they come with potential indoor air pollutants and a higher environmental cost.

Soy Wax: A Cleaner, More Sustainable Option

Soy candles are made from soybean oil, making them a plant-based and more eco-friendly alternative. Unlike paraffin, soy wax burns cleaner, producing little to no soot, and has a longer burn time. Because soy is biodegradable and renewable, it supports a more sustainable home environment.

That said, not all soy candles are created equal. Some may still contain a blend of paraffin wax, so look for candles made with 100% soy wax and free from synthetic additives.

The Bottom Line: A great choice for cleaner indoor air and a sustainable home, as long as you opt for pure soy wax.

Beeswax: The Natural Air Purifier

Beeswax is one of the oldest candle-making materials, sourced directly from beehives. It burns with a warm, golden glow and emits a naturally sweet, honey-like scent without added fragrance. But perhaps its most fascinating feature is that beeswax candles can actually help clean the air by releasing negative ions, which bond with dust and allergens to remove them from your space.

Beeswax is a completely natural and renewable resource, but because it takes a significant amount of effort from bees to produce, these candles can be pricier. However, many people find the investment worth it for the benefits they bring to their self-care rituals and the environment.

The Bottom Line: A holistic, eco-friendly choice that purifies the air and creates a cozy, ambient space.

Choosing the Best Wax for Your Self-Care Ritual

If you’re aiming for a clean, eco-friendly home while prioritizing mindful living, soy and beeswax candles are the best options. They’ll not only enhance your environment but also ensure that your peaceful moments—whether reading, meditating, or taking a soothing bath—are free from harsh chemicals.

Here are a few simple ways to incorporate candles into a mindful self-care routine:

• Create a bedtime wind-down ritual: Light a candle with a calming scent like lavender or sandalwood, turn off overhead lights, and allow yourself to unplug before sleep.
• Enhance your meditation or journaling practice: A flickering flame can serve as a point of focus that helps ground your thoughts.
• Make everyday moments special: Light a candle while enjoying your morning coffee, stretching, or doing deep breathing exercises to set a positive tone for the day.
• Be intentional about scent: Choose natural fragrances that evoke relaxation or energy, depending on your needs.

Switching to sustainable candles is a small change that can make a big impact in both your immediate space and the environment. If you’re looking for beautifully crafted, eco-conscious options, explore our most-loved candles and make your rituals even more restorative.

FAQ

Are soy and beeswax candles completely soot-free?

While soy and beeswax candles produce significantly less soot than paraffin, no candle is 100% soot-free. To reduce soot, trim your wicks to about ¼ inch before each burn and avoid drafts that cause uneven burning.

Is soy wax always sustainable?

Soy wax is more sustainable than paraffin, but it depends on sourcing. Look for candles made with responsibly sourced, non-GMO soy to ensure minimal environmental impact.

Do beeswax candles harm bees or their colonies?

Ethically sourced beeswax comes from beekeepers who harvest excess wax without harming the bees. Supporting responsible beekeeping helps protect bee populations and their vital role in the ecosystem.

Why do some soy wax candles have a frosted or uneven appearance?

This is a natural occurrence in pure soy wax because it lacks synthetic additives. It does not affect the burn quality—it’s actually a sign that the candle is free of unnecessary chemicals!

Can I mix different candle types in my home?

Absolutely! Many people use a mix—soy for everyday use, beeswax for relaxation, and unscented versions for dinner tables to avoid competing with food aromas.

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