Soy vs Paraffin: Which wax is better for you and the planet?

Why are candles made with soy wax better for you (and the planet!) than ones made with paraffin? Soy wax is made from soybeans, which are a natural and renewable resource that can be easily grown and harvested while paraffin wax is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. This means that soy wax is a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly option by helping reduce our reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels.

Soy wax is biodegradable, while paraffin wax is not. This means that soy wax will break down and decompose naturally over time, whereas paraffin wax will not. This makes soy wax a better choice for those who are concerned about the environment and want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Soy wax is also non-toxic, while paraffin wax can contain harmful chemicals such as benzene and toluene. When burned, paraffin wax can release these chemicals into the air, which can be harmful to humans and animals. In contrast, soy wax is clean-burning and does not release any harmful chemicals when burned.

In addition to being more environmentally friendly, soy wax also has benefits over paraffin wax when it comes to candle-making.  Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, which means that soy wax candles burn at a cooler temperature.  This makes it safer to use and handle, it can be easily cleaned up with soap and water, and is less likely to cause a fire hazard.

Finally, soy wax has a longer burn time than paraffin wax. This means that candles made with soy wax will last longer and provide more value for money. Additionally, soy wax candles burn evenly and do not create any soot or other residue, and they are less likely to blacken walls or surfaces.  Here at Winniefred we only use 100% soy wax because of its health and environmental benefits!