Soy vs. Paraffin Wax: The Truth About What You’re Breathing

Walk down the aisle of a big-box store, and you’ll see candles for £5. Look at a hand-poured artisan candle, and it might be £25. Why the difference?

It all comes down to the ingredients. Specifically: The Wax.

Most cheap candles are made of Paraffin Wax. Paraffin is a byproduct of the oil purification process—literally the sludge at the bottom of the barrel when making gasoline. When you burn it, it releases petro-carbon soot (that black stuff that stains your jar) and can release toxic chemicals into your air.

The Soy Difference

Soy wax is completely natural. It is made from hydrogenated soybean oil. Here is why that matters for you:

1. A Cleaner Burn Soy wax burns clean. You won't see that thick black smoke or soot coating your walls and curtains. It is non-toxic and biodegradable.

2. Longer Burn Time This is where you get your money’s worth. Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin. This means it burns cooler and slower. A 10oz soy candle can last 30-50% longer than a paraffin candle of the same size. You are buying more hours of enjoyment.

3. Better Scent (The "True" Scent) Paraffin relies on chemical boosters to push scent. Soy wax holds fragrance naturally. While the scent might seem more subtle at first, it is a more "true" scent that doesn't smell like artificial chemicals.

Conclusion We believe that what you breathe matters. That’s why we never cut corners with cheap fillers. When you light one of our candles, you are lighting a product made from the earth, not a factory floor.

Ready to experience the difference? Shop our Best Sellers Collection here.