A friend of ours conducted a science fair project looking at the difference between soy wax and paraffin wax.  Both jars were vintage canning jars, had the same amount of the respective waxes along with the same wicks.  These candles were lit at the same time and placed close together. They were each burned for a total of 68 hours when the picture was taken.  As you can see, the paraffin candle has about 1/3 of the wax that the soy candle has.  This confirms that soy wax candles do burn longer than paraffin candles.  You will also observe that the paraffin candle has turned the jar black with carbon and other nasty chemicals.  The soy wax candle, using our soy wax, on the other hand does not have that black substance on it.  This shows that its true that soy candles produce 90% less soot than paraffin candles and because they are all natural do not emit the harmful chemicals into the air.  Also, if a paraffin candle turned the jar black what is it doing to your walls and ceiling?

Benefits of Soy

*Soy candles are more environmentally friendly than other types of candles.  Soy wax is made from soybeans, which are a biodegradable and renewable source.   On the other hand, candles made from paraffin wax contain petroleum, which produces carcinogens when burned.  Soy doesn't contaminate the air with carbon dioxide!

*Soy candles burn slower, lasting 50% longer than candles made of petroleum-based paraffin (which is found in most candles).  And since soybean oil has a lower melting point than paraffin candles, soy candles burn "cooler," which helps distribute more scent into the air at a faster rate.

*Soy candles are inexpensive.  They cost less than paraffin candles.  The only other naturally occurring wax is beeswax.  But to make a 100% beeswax candle would be very expensive!  

*Soy candles produce less soot.  All wax produces some soot, but soy candles don't produce the dense black soot associated with petroleum-based candles.  Instead, soy candles may produce a lighter, white soot... that is free of carcinogens. 

*Soy candle spills are easy to clean. Have you ever spilled regular (paraffin) wax on your counter or furniture?  It's hard to clean off, isn't it? Soy candle spills, though, can be quickly (and effectively!) cleaned with a little soapy water.  

 *Soy candles come in just as many scents as paraffin candles. Just because you are choosing a more environmentally-friendly product doesn't mean you have to give up that delicious, rich scent!  And soy candles retain their scent well-they don't lose it halfway through burning like some paraffin candles.

Soy Candle Burning Tips

• The first time you light your candle, don't trim your wick.
  
  
• Never Burn your candle unattended.  Keep away from children and pets.
  
  
• Burn your container candle until a pool of melted wax completely forms across the top.  This will ensure an even burn all the way down the container.
  
  
• Allow the candle to cool before relighting.
  
  
• When trimming your wick, only trim off the "carbon ball" off the end.  Soy wax is a thick substance and requires extra heat for a complete burn.
  
  
• Discontinue burning container candles when there is a 1/4 inch of wax left in the bottom.