Soy Candles: The Best Choice for Your Home and Health

When it comes to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home, nothing beats the gentle flicker and comforting glow of a candle. Candles transform your mood and overall environment. However, not all candles are created equal. Traditional paraffin candles, (which are 90% of store bought candles) and made from petroleum oil, may release harmful by-products when burned, posing risks to both your health and the environment. That includes our furry friends, and was the main reason I started Hand Poured Peace. This is where soy wax candles come in! Derived from soybeans, soy wax offers a natural and cleaner alternative to paraffin. In this article, we will talk about the benefits of soy wax candles and why they should be your top choice for creating the ideal peaceful, safe environment.

The Natural Choice: Soy Wax

Soy wax is a hydrogenated vegetable oil that solidifies at room temperature. Unlike paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum oil and contains artificial additives, soy wax is completely natural. It is derived from soybeans, a renewable resource that is both eco-friendly and sustainable. By choosing to burn soy wax candles, you are making a conscious decision to support a greener and cleaner environment!

Environmental Impact

One of the key advantages of soy wax candles is their minimal impact on the environment. Unlike paraffin candles, which contribute to the depletion of non-renewable resources, soy wax candles are made from a renewable resource - soybeans. According to the National Geographic, renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally over time. By opting for soy wax candles, you are not only  reducing your carbon footprint, you're also promoting a more sustainable future.

Health Benefits

As well as being environmentally friendly, soy wax candles also offer various health benefits. Unlike paraffin candles, (which release harmful substances when burned) soy wax candles are non-toxic. South Carolina State University said, burning paraffin wax candles can emit benzene, a carcinogen that promotes the growth of cancer cells. On the other hand, soy wax candles do not release benzene, making them a safer choice for your health and well-being.

The Downside of Paraffin Wax Candles

Now that we have highlighted the advantages of soy wax candles, let's take a closer look at the downside of traditional paraffin wax candles, (which are 90% of store bought candles). Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum, raises several concerns when it comes to your health and the environment.

Harmful By-Products

Paraffin wax is a chemical compound. Paraffin wax candles may release harmful by-products when burned. These by-products include benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde, which are known to have adverse effects on respiratory health. When you light a paraffin candle, you are essentially filling your home with these potentially harmful chemicals, which can cause respiratory irritation and trigger allergies. Additionally, paraffin candles produce black soot when burned, which can stain walls, ceilings, and furniture. In contrast, soy wax candles burn cleaner, leaving little to no soot residue and minimizing their environmental impact. In contrast, soy wax candles do not emit these harmful substances, making them a healthier choice for you and your loved ones.

The Benefits of Soy Wax Candles

Now that we have explored the drawbacks of paraffin wax candles, let's delve into the many benefits of soy wax candles. From their clean burn to their long-lasting fragrance, soy wax candles offer a superior experience for candle enthusiasts. 

Clean Burn

Soy wax candles burn cleaner than paraffin candles, resulting in minimal soot and smoke. This clean burn not only ensures a healthier indoor environment but also reduces the need for frequent cleaning. Say goodbye to black soot stains on your walls and ceilings, and enjoy the pure glow of soy wax candles without any unwanted residue.

Longer Burn Time

Soy wax candles have a longer burn time compared to paraffin candles (45% longer!). Due to their lower melting point, soy wax candles burn slower, allowing you to enjoy their warm ambiance for extended periods. This means you can savor the soothing glow of your favorite soy wax candle for longer, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Stronger Fragrance

Another advantage of soy wax candles is their ability to hold and release fragrance more effectively. The porous nature of soy wax allows it to absorb fragrance oils, resulting in a stronger and longer-lasting scent. Whether you prefer floral, fruity, or woody aromas, soy wax candles will fill your space with captivating fragrances that create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. At Hand Poured Peace, we use premium non-toxic fragrance blends to keep our candles clean!

Easy Clean-up

Accidental spills or drips are inevitable when using candles. However, cleaning up after a soy wax candle is much easier compared to paraffin wax. Soy wax is water-soluble, making it a breeze to remove any spills or residue. Simply wipe away the soy wax with warm water and mild soap, and your surfaces will be as good as new. Depending on the surface, a heat gun is also an option!

In conclusion, soy wax candles offer a multitude of benefits for your home and health. By choosing soy wax over paraffin, you are making a conscious decision to support the environment, reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals, and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. So, light up a soy wax candle, sit back, and indulge in the warm ambiance and captivating fragrances Hand Poured Peace brings! Shop Soy Candles Today! 

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