Monday 17 December 2012

Why don't I use paraffin when making candles?

As you can no doubt tell, I like to make candles from soy wax. I would like to take a minute and explain to you why that is.

Make Candles At Home
Soy pillar candle
  1. Soy is 100% natural. Yes, I have seen the arguments that paraffin is natural as it originates with the decomposition of organic matter. But seriously, how many of us consider petroleum to be a natural product? Paraffin is a by-product of the petroleum industry. Yes, paraffin is used in a lot of women's health and beauty products but that doesn't necessarily make it natural or good for you. Take a quick look at any cosmetic item you use and you will see an extensive list of chemical compounds. Why would you want to burn chemicals in your home? Surely a 100% natural wax is a healthier choice.
  2. Soy is renewable. Soy beans can be harvested and then more grown the following season. It takes millions of years to make the petroleum necessary for the production of paraffin.
  3. The use of soy beans to make wax for candle making helps local farmers in the USA and many other countries
  4. Soy wax works in so many forms. You can use soy to make pillar, container and molded candles. I use to worry about using soy in silicone molds but really works well. Soy wax is softer than paraffin and it is a white wax, therefore the colors are not as vivid, but it is a great wax for making candles.
  5. Soy candles burn cleaner than paraffin candles. I burn candles everyday and I am often surprised when I see other people's candles with black sooty residues around the edges. I never have black soot on my soy candles.
  6. Soy candles burn slower and therefore they last longer. This makes soy candles a good economic choice as you are getting a longer burn time for your dollar.
  7. Soy has an excellent scent throw. Most of us burn candles for the beautiful scent they give off around the home. Soy wax has an excellent cold and warm scent throw meaning your house will smell delicious in no time at all.
Make candles at home
Soy Candle using Silicone Mold
As you can see, there are so many reasons why soy wax is a great decision when making candles. Soy wax is better for you, your family and the environment. You know when you use soy wax you will get great looking candles and a candle that will burn well.

Great ideas on using soy wax in candle making can be found at Candle Making Skills

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