When it comes to creating the perfect ambiance for your space, the right candle can make all the difference. The debate continues: soy vs beeswax candles. Two eco-friendly candle contenders vying to illuminate your health and home.

Soy candles are celebrated for their clean and long-lasting burn, often infused with essential oils to enhance the atmosphere. On the other hand, beeswax candles emit a natural honey-like aroma and are known for their air-purifying properties. In this comprehensive article, we’ll shed light on the disparities between soy and beeswax candles to empower your decision-making process to guide you towards the most sustainable candle options.

Join us as we illuminate the debate between soy and beeswax candles, shedding light on their candle material comparison, environmental impact, candle industry insights, health benefits, and overall performance. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to pick the brightest option for your well-being and home.

RELATED: 12 Best Non-Toxic Candles For Allergies And Cleaner Air

Benefits of Soy Candles

Soy candles are natural wax candles and have gained popularity for several compelling reasons. Firstly, they are made from natural soybean oil, making them a renewable and sustainable choice. Unlike paraffin candles, soy candles burn cleanly, without emitting harmful toxins into the air. This not only benefits the environment but also ensures that the air in your home remains free from pollutants.

Furthermore, soy candles typically have a longer burn time compared to other types of candles. There are many organic candles choices as well. These eco-friendly candles can help you to enjoy their warm glow and soothing scents for extended periods, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. Additionally, soy candles are known for their ability to hold and disperse fragrance effectively, creating a delightful olfactory experience in any room.

Moreover, soy candles are often hand-poured, adding a personal touch to each candle, giving you an environmentally friendly candle option. The process of creating soy candles allows for a wide range of creative designs and scents, catering to various preferences and styles. Whether you prefer floral, woody, or fresh scents, there’s a soy candle to suit every mood and occasion.

Want to know more about how soy oil is produced, take a look at this video here about sustainable candle making practices:

Here are some of our favorite non-toxic soy candles:

Wax Buffalo

Brooklyn Candle Studio

Anecdote Candles

Benefits of Beeswax Candles

Beeswax candles, derived from the honeycomb of bees, offer a unique set of benefits that set them apart from other types of candles. One of the most notable advantages of beeswax candles is their natural air-purifying properties. When burned, beeswax releases negative ions that can neutralize pollutants in the air, promoting a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.

In addition to their air-purifying qualities, beeswax candles emit a subtle, natural fragrance reminiscent of honey. This delicate aroma adds a warm and inviting ambiance to any space, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond just the visual appeal of candlelight. Furthermore, beeswax candles have a longer burn time compared to paraffin candles, ensuring that you can enjoy their gentle glow for extended periods.

Another benefit of beeswax candles is their dripless nature, making them a practical choice for those who value cleanliness and minimal maintenance. The slow, clean burn of beeswax candles means you can enjoy their luminous presence without having to worry about wax spills or dripping, preserving the aesthetics of your candlelit setting.

Want to know how they get raw beeswax and turn it into candles? Take a look at this video:

Here are some of our favorite non-toxic beeswax candles:

Clean Bee

Bluecorn

Brooklyn Made Natural

Soy vs Beeswax Candles

Environmental Impact of Soy vs Beeswax Candles

When it comes to considering the environmental impact of candles, both soy and beeswax options offer eco-friendly advantages. Soy candles are primarily made from soybean oil, a renewable resource that can be sustainably harvested. This makes soy candles a greener alternative to paraffin candles, which are derived from non-renewable petroleum.

Furthermore, the cultivation of soybeans for candle production can contribute to agricultural sustainability, provided that responsible farming practices are employed. Choosing soy candles can therefore support environmentally conscious agricultural methods and reduce the reliance on finite fossil fuels, aligning with a more sustainable approach to candle manufacturing.

On the other hand, beeswax candles are also considered environmentally friendly due to their natural sourcing. Beeswax is a byproduct of honey production by bees, and its extraction does not harm the bees or their hives when done responsibly. By opting for beeswax candles, you’re supporting the work of bees and promoting the conservation of natural resources.

Health Considerations: Soy vs Beeswax Candles

When it comes to your health and well-being, the type of candles you choose can have a significant impact according to indoor air quality guidelines. Soy candles, being made from natural soybean oil, do not release harmful chemicals or soot when burned. This means that the air in your home remains free from potentially harmful pollutants, promoting better indoor air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory irritation.

Additionally, soy candles are often scented with essential oils, which can offer therapeutic benefits such as relaxation, stress relief, and mood enhancement. Be careful though, many soy candles are fragranced with synthetic fragrances, making them less safe for your consumption. Synthetic scents have been linked to health and respiratory problems. [1]

Similarly, beeswax candles are lauded for their health-friendly properties. When burned, beeswax emits negative ions that can bind with airborne contaminants, effectively removing them from the air. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to indoor pollutants, as the air-purifying action of beeswax candles may help alleviate symptoms and create a cleaner breathing environment. Beeswax candles are less likely to have artificial and synthetic scents, making them entirely clean burning and safe for your health.

Beeswax is a natural and non-toxic substance, making it a safe choice for those who are conscious of minimizing their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. By choosing beeswax candles, you can enjoy the warm glow of candlelight without compromising on air quality or health considerations.

Scent and Aesthetics: Soy vs Beeswax Candles

The aroma and visual appeal of candles play a significant role in creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere. Soy candles are renowned for their ability to hold and disperse fragrance effectively, offering a wide range of scents to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer floral, citrus, earthy, or sweet aromas, there’s a diverse selection of soy candles to cater to various moods and occasions.

Moreover, the clean and natural burn of soy candles ensures that the true essence of the fragrance is preserved, allowing you to fully experience the intended scent profile without any interference from soot or chemical residues. This purity of fragrance adds to the overall sensory experience, enhancing the ambiance of your living spaces.

In contrast, beeswax candles emit a subtle, natural fragrance that reflects the sweet aroma of honey. This gentle scent adds a touch of warmth and authenticity to any setting, evoking a sense of natural beauty and simplicity. The natural fragrance of beeswax candles complements a wide range of interior styles, from modern and minimalist to cozy and rustic, making them a versatile choice for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home.

Furthermore, the golden glow of beeswax candles creates a soft and inviting ambiance, casting a warm light that enhances the visual charm of your surroundings. Whether used as a centerpiece for intimate gatherings or as a soothing presence during quiet moments, beeswax candles contribute to a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Cost Comparison: Soy vs Beeswax Candles

When considering the cost of candles, it’s essential to evaluate their long-term value in addition to their initial price. Soy candles, known for their longer burn time compared to paraffin candles, offer a cost-effective choice for those seeking prolonged enjoyment of candlelight and fragrances. While the upfront cost of soy candles may be slightly higher than paraffin alternatives, their extended burn time can result in overall savings in the long run.

Moreover, the clean burn of soy candles means that they produce minimal soot and residue, reducing the need for frequent cleaning or maintenance. This can contribute to cost savings in terms of time and effort spent on upkeep, making soy candles a practical and economical choice for individuals who value convenience and efficiency.

On the other hand, beeswax candles, while often priced higher than soy or paraffin options, offer exceptional value due to their long burn time and air-purifying properties. The extended durability of beeswax candles means that they can provide lasting illumination and fragrance, making them a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize longevity and quality.

Additionally, the dripless nature of beeswax candles minimizes waste and ensures that each candle burns efficiently, further enhancing their cost-effectiveness over time. By factoring in the longevity and performance of beeswax candles, their higher initial cost can be justified by the enduring benefits they offer.

Choosing the Right Candle for Your Home

As you navigate the choice between soy and beeswax candles, it’s important to consider your specific preferences and priorities. If you prioritize clean and sustainable options that offer a diverse range of scents, soy candles may align with your values and lifestyle. Their affordability, long burn time, and environmental benefits make them a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and eco-friendly candle solution.

On the other hand, if you value natural air purification, subtle honey-like fragrance, and a timeless aesthetic appeal, beeswax candles may be the ideal fit for your home. Their air-purifying properties, long-lasting burn, and dripless nature make them a luxurious yet practical addition to any space, enhancing the sensory experience and visual charm of candlelight.

Ultimately, the right candle for your home is one that resonates with your values, enhances your well-being, and contributes to the ambiance you wish to create. Whether you opt for the clean and contemporary allure of soy candles or the timeless elegance of beeswax candles, both options offer unique benefits that can enrich your daily rituals and elevate the atmosphere of your living spaces.

Soy vs Beeswax Candles: FAQ

Which candles are better soy or beeswax?

Personally I prefer beeswax candles because they are usually naturally scented and do not have any artificial scents added to them, which can be harmful to your health. They also have natural air purification properties, longer burn times, and a subtle honey-like aroma. If soy candles are scented with essential oils they can also be clean burning, longer-lasting scents, and more affordable than beeswax candles.

Consider factors like environmental impact, scent preferences, and budget to choose the candle that aligns best with your priorities.

Which burns cleaner soy candles or beeswax candles?

Both beeswax and soy wax are considered clean-burning options compared to paraffin wax. However, in terms of which burns cleaner:

• Beeswax Candles: Generally produce less soot and smoke compared to soy candles. They have natural components that aid in cleaner combustion.
• Soy Candles: Also burn cleanly but might produce slightly more soot compared to beeswax. However, this can vary based on the specific formulation and additives used in the candle.

What is the best healthiest candle wax?

Beeswax candles are often regarded as one of the healthiest options. Beeswax is a natural substance that emits little to no smoke or soot. It also has air-purifying properties and doesn’t release harmful toxins when burned. They are also better for those suffering from allergies and asthma.

Candle Usage Tips for Optimal Performance and Safety:

For Soy Candles:

• Trim the wick to approximately 1/4 inch before each use to prevent excessive smoke and ensure an even burn throughout the candle’s lifespan.
• Allow the soy candle to form a full melt pool during each use by letting the wax liquefy to the edges of the container. This prevents tunneling and extends the candle’s lifespan.
• Place the candle on stable, heat-resistant surfaces away from drafts or flammable materials to maintain a safe environment during use.

For Beeswax Candles:

• Maintain a trimmed wick of around 1/4 inch to promote a steady and efficient burn, reducing the risk of soot or uneven melting.
• Similar to soy candles, ensure the beeswax candle forms a full melt pool to prevent tunneling and maximize its burning efficiency.
• Always place beeswax candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces away from drafts or flammable materials to prevent accidents.

General Tips for Both Types:

• Store candles away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to preserve their fragrance and structural integrity over time.
• Following these simple yet effective precautions will ensure you enjoy the full benefits of soy and beeswax candles while enhancing safety and longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both soy and beeswax candles offer distinct advantages catering to diverse preferences. Soy candles, known for their renewable nature and diverse scents, present a modern and eco-friendly choice. They promote sustainable practices and clean burning, appealing to those conscious of environmental impact.

Conversely, beeswax candles boast natural air-purifying properties and a subtle honey-like fragrance, offering a luxurious and health-conscious option. With their long-lasting burn time and elegant glow, they enhance any setting, prioritizing both aesthetics and well-being.

By assessing their environmental impact, health benefits, scents, costs, and usage tips, you can select the ideal candle to illuminate your space. Whether opting for the contemporary allure of soy or the timeless elegance of beeswax, each choice brightens your environment, aligning with your unique style and values.