Recently, I have had quite a few discussions about what wax we use (organic soy) and why. I love that we are having these conversations! It means people are paying closer attention to what products and energy they are welcoming into their home. While most people are shying away from paraffin wax, given the chemical components, wax options like beeswax and coconut wax blends are options to discuss as well. While your wax preference is absolutely your own prerogative, I’m happy to share some resources with you explaining why we use organic soy and how it aligns with our process.
Where it’s source and the impacts of that choice:
- Soy wax is derived from soybeans, making it 100% plant-based. We source from the same organic soy vendor (family business located in Iowa) who has crop reports accessible. These provide all info on what's used during planting, care, and harvest to ensure there are no chemicals involved.
- Purchasing soy wax from farming operations supports soybean agriculture, which focuses on local economies and contributes to the reduction of dependence on imported petroleum.
- Soybeans are a renewable crop that can be harvested yearly, whereas beeswax production depends on bee populations and is slower and more limited in scale.
How it burns and the impacts of that process:
- It doesn’t release toxic byproducts or harmful carcinogens when burned, unlike paraffin wax, which can emit substances like benzene and toluene.
- High-quality organic soy wax burns cleaner, producing less soot than many waxes, including beeswax. Reduced soot and smoke from soy wax candles mean less irritation to the lungs and eyes, especially for people with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities. It’s almost important to note that the type of wick actually contributes the most to soot and is something you should look at when reviewing your purchase.
- Soy candles typically burn slower and longer than paraffin and beeswax candles, giving you more value and a more extended experience from each candle.
How it reacts to natural scent and the impacts of the aromatherapy:
- Soy wax has a mild, neutral scent, making it ideal for adding oils without interference. *This fact helps have the best throw for scented candles when the oil is added. Beeswax has a natural honey-like scent, which can adjust the scent.
How does it support our goal of product reuse and the impacts of the commitment:
- Being plant-based, soy wax is biodegradable, which means it breaks down naturally over time and has a lower environmental impact.
- Soy wax is water-soluble, making it easier to clean from containers with just hot water for reuse.
Additional factors:
- Soy wax melts at a lower temperature than beeswax, making it safer for use in container candles.
- Soy wax usually has a smooth, creamy appearance, while beeswax can have a more rustic texture and a yellow tint, which may not suit all aesthetic preferences.
- Beeswax may trigger reactions in people with bee or pollen allergies, whereas soy wax is hypoallergenic and generally well-tolerated. I am someone who is severely allergic to bees, so from a solely personal experience, beeswax is not in the cards for me.