Soy Candles vs. Paraffin Candles: What’s the Difference?
When you think of candles, you probably picture the cozy glow, the flickering flame, and the fragrance that fills your space. But have you ever wondered what’s actually in that candle — and what you’re breathing in as it burns? The type of wax used makes all the difference.
Today, we’re breaking down the two most common options: soy candles and paraffin candles.
What Are Paraffin Candles?
Paraffin wax is the most widely used candle wax in the world. It’s made from petroleum byproducts, which makes it inexpensive to produce and widely available.
Pros of paraffin candles:
Strong initial fragrance throw
Widely available and affordable
Comes in many styles and sizes
Cons of paraffin candles:
Made from non-renewable petroleum sources
Produces more soot, which can stain walls and ceilings
Can release harmful chemicals into the air while burning
What Are Soy Candles?
Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil, a natural and renewable resource. It’s biodegradable, sustainable, and burns more cleanly than paraffin.
Pros of soy candles:
Burns longer and more evenly
Made from renewable, plant-based ingredients
Produces minimal soot
Cleaner air quality and safer for pets and children
Biodegradable and eco-friendly
Cons of soy candles:
Slightly higher price point
Softer wax can make intricate shapes harder to mold
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Paraffin Candles | Soy Candles |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Petroleum byproduct | Plant-based (soybeans) |
| Burn Time | Shorter, burns quickly | Longer, slower burn |
| Soot Production | Higher, can discolor surfaces | Minimal, cleaner burn |
| Fragrance Throw | Strong initial throw | More subtle, steady release |
| Eco-Friendly | Non-renewable, not sustainable | Renewable, biodegradable |
Which Candle Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for the most affordable option, paraffin might seem appealing. But if you care about air quality, sustainability, and a longer-lasting candle, soy is the clear winner.
Soy candles aren’t just a healthier choice — they also provide a luxury experience. With a cleaner burn, subtle fragrance release, and eco-friendly ingredients, soy candles are better for your home and the planet.
Our Commitment at Scent of Home
At Scent of Home, we hand-pour each candle with 100% soy wax and non-toxic ingredients. That means no harmful additives, no overwhelming synthetic scents — just clean, luxury fragrance that makes your home feel warm, cozy, and elevated.
Explore our luxury soy candle collection and experience the difference yourself.
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