Soy candles have won the hearts of many in recent years due to their subtle fragrance and eco-friendly composition. This type of candle has become a popular choice in the craft and commercial industries due to its health and environmental benefits. Soy wax, in fact, is a material that has changed the candle market, being more sustainable and safer compared to conventional waxes such as paraffin.
What is Soy Candle Wax?
Definition and Origin
It is a vegetable wax obtained from soybean oil, a natural and renewable product. Soybeans, native to Asia, are cultivated in many parts of the world, especially in North America. The extraction process involves grinding soybeans to obtain the oil, which is then converted into wax through a hydrogenation process. The result is a soft, malleable wax that solidifies at room temperature, making it ideal for candlemaking.
Characteristics of Soy Wax
The characteristics of soy wax are what make it so attractive as a candle base:
- Natural and Ecological : It is biodegradable and comes from a renewable source, which means that its production has a lower impact on the environment compared to petroleum-derived waxes.
- Low Melting Temperature : Unlike other waxes, soy wax melts at a lower temperature, allowing for easier handling and a more controlled burning experience.
- Clean and Sustainable Burning : They are known for not emitting smoke or toxic residue, unlike candles made with paraffin.
- Long-lasting : They tend to last longer due to their slow burn rate. This means that the same size soy wax candle can last longer than a conventional candle.
- Better Fragrance Retention : It has a unique ability to absorb and release fragrances more efficiently, making scented candles more intense and long-lasting.
Benefits of Using Soy Wax for Candles
1. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
One of the reasons soy wax has gained so much interest in candle making is its eco-friendly nature. Because it comes from a renewable plant source, soy can be grown sustainably, helping to reduce dependence on non-renewable resources like petroleum. It's also completely biodegradable, meaning its decomposition won't contribute to soil pollution or the accumulation of non-recyclable waste.
By choosing soy candles over paraffin candles, consumers are choosing a more environmentally friendly option, which is a huge plus for those committed to a green lifestyle and sustainable practices.
2. Burn Cleaner and Healthier
Paraffin candles, which are commonly made from petroleum products, emit toxic chemicals when burned. These compounds, such as benzene and toluene, can be harmful to human health and the environment. Soy wax, on the other hand, is completely natural and does not release these chemicals when burned.
This is especially important for people with allergies or respiratory problems. They're a much healthier option for keeping the air in your home clean and free of pollutants.
3. Long Duration
They tend to last much longer than conventional wax candles due to the way soy wax burns. It has a lower melting temperature, meaning it melts at a slower rate, resulting in a longer burn time. As a result, soy candles are not only more efficient but also offer more hours of light and fragrance.
4. Better Fragrance Retention
Soy wax has an excellent ability to retain essential oils and fragrances, releasing them continuously and for a long time as it burns. This allows soy-scented candles to offer a more complete experience, where the aroma is released gradually and evenly over a long period of time.
This is a great advantage, as soy candles allow you to enjoy an intense fragrance without being overpowering. Natural scents from essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or rosehip blend perfectly with soy wax to create a relaxing and cozy atmosphere in any space.
How to Make Soy Wax Candles : A Step-by-Step Guide
If you want to learn how to make your own candles at home, the process is quite simple and only requires a few basic materials. Below is a detailed guide to get you started.
Necessary Materials
- Soy wax (available in flakes or blocks).
- Cotton wicks (can be purchased at specialty stores).
- Essential oils or fragrances (optional).
- Candle dye (optional).
- Containers (can be glass jars, cans, or any heat-resistant container).
- Cooking thermometer.
- Container for melting the wax (a glass or metal bowl).
Step 1: Prepare the Materials
Start by gathering all the necessary materials. To know how much wax to use, measure the containers you'll be using. A good tip is to fill the container with melted wax to the desired level, then multiply that amount by 1.5 to account for the wax's expansion.
Step 2: Melt the Soy Wax
Place the soy wax in a double boiler. If you don't have a double boiler, you can melt it in a saucepan over low heat, but be careful not to overheat it. The ideal temperature for melting soy wax is between 70-80°C. A cooking thermometer is useful for monitoring the temperature and preventing the wax from burning.
Step 3: Add Fragrance and Color (Optional)
Once the wax has melted, you can add essential oils or fragrances to scent your candles. The amount you add depends on the intensity of the fragrance you desire. Generally, a 6-10% essential oil/wax ratio is recommended. You can also add food coloring if you want to tint the wax.
Mix well to ensure the fragrance and colorant are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Prepare the Wick
While the wax is melting, prepare the wicks. Cut them to a length appropriate for the container you're using. A good rule of thumb is to leave about 2-3 cm extra at the top of the container so you can adjust the wick later.
Secure the wick to the center of the container. You can use a bit of melted wax to stick it to the bottom of the jar, or you can also use a toothpick or tweezers to keep the wick centered while you pour the wax.
Step 5: Pour the Wax
Once the wax is completely melted and mixed with the oils and colorants (if using), slowly pour the wax into the prepared container. Make sure to fill the container to within about 1 cm of the rim to avoid spills. Let the wax cool for a few hours until it completely hardens.
Step 6: Trim the Wick
Once the candle has cooled and the wax has solidified, trim the wick to about 2-3 cm above the surface of the wax. This will ensure a proper burn and prevent the wick from overheating or causing excessive smoke.
Care and Maintenance of Soy Wax Candles
1. Keep the Wick Trimmed
To ensure soy candles burn efficiently, it's important to trim the wick before each use. This prevents the wick from burning too quickly and also helps reduce the amount of smoke produced. Keep the wick about 2-3 cm long.
2. Avoid Burning the Candle for Long Periods
Although they burn slower than traditional candles, it's recommended not to leave a candle burning for more than 4 hours at a time. This helps prolong the candle's life and prevents the wax from melting unevenly.
3. Store Correctly
To maintain the quality of your soy candles, store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will prevent the wax from discoloring or melting.
Where to Buy Soy Wax for Candles?
Soy wax can be found in specialty stores both online and in-person. Many websites and craft stores offer soy wax in various forms, such as flakes or blocks, and also sell the complementary materials needed for candle making, such as wicks and fragrances.
Additionally, more and more commercial candle brands are opting for soy wax, so you can also purchase pre-made soy candles in organic stores and many markets.
Soy Wax for Candles, the Ecological and Long-Lasting Option
It's an excellent alternative for those looking for a healthier and more environmentally friendly option when choosing their candles. Not only does it last longer and burn cleaner, but it also provides a richer and longer-lasting fragrance experience. Furthermore, its ease of manufacture makes it a popular choice for those who enjoy creating homemade candles.
If you're looking to make the switch to more eco-friendly candles and enjoy their benefits, soy wax is the ideal choice. From their sustainability to their ability to provide a warm and cozy light, soy wax candles are a choice that truly makes a difference.