Are soy candles better than paraffin candles? Professional comparison

Scented candles accompany us in our daily life - they set the atmosphere, help us relax and emphasize the character of the interior. The question that comes up more often in forums, comments and purchase inquiries is: whether soy candles are really better than paraffin? In this post, we will look at this technically and comprehensively - without generalities, but with specifics.

📜 Brief history waxes for candle making

🕯️ Paraffin - a product of the 20th century

Paraffin as a candle-making material emerged in the 19th century and quickly became a standard due to its availability, low cost and combustion stability. It is a by-product of oil refining, consisting of chains of hydrocarbons. Paraffin candles dominated mass production for many decades. 

🌱 Soy wax - a natural alternative

Soy wax is made from pre-hydrogenated soybean oil, resulting in a solid with a lower melting point than paraffin. Due to its plant origin, it is considered a more natural and renewable resource. 

🔬 Physical properties - soy wax vs. paraffin 🌡️

Melting and combustion temperatures

• Soy wax - has a lower melting point and burns more slowly, which translates into a longer burning time (up to 30-50% longer than paraffin for the same size candle).
• Paraffin - melts faster and gives off an aroma more intensely at the beginning of combustion, but the whole burns for a shorter time. 

🪔 Flame and smoke

• Soy wax - the flame is usually warmer and more stable, and the combustion is cleaner with less soot.
• Paraffin - can emit more soot and smoke if the wax and oils are not of high quality. 

🧪 Emissions and combustion cleanliness

• Parafina - Paraffin is a petrochemical product. Trace amounts of chemicals such as toluene or benzene may be released during combustion, especially if not well purified.
• Soy wax produces less soot and ensures cleaner combustion - this means less deposits on the walls and around the candle. With a lower melting point, fragrances are often released more gently and evenly.

🕰️ Burning time and efficiency

• Soy candles burn longer and more evenly, thanks to the lower melting point and density of the wax.
• Paraffin candles burn faster and may lose flavor intensity faster, which affects the final burning time. 

In practice, this means that despite the higher unit price of a soy candle, burning it longer usually translates into better cost performance.

🌸 Odor transmission / scent throw ("scent throw")

Scent throw is the term used to describe how an odor spreads in a room.

• Parafina - often offers a more intense "cold throw" and "hot throw" - the smell is quickly strongly perceptible and spreads widely. This is due to the chemical structure and ability of paraffin to absorb large amounts of fragrance oils.
• Soy wax - The fragrance tends to develop more gently and naturally - perfect for people who like subtle, non-overpowering aromas and natural compositions. With a lower melting point, the fragrance oils are released slowly and evenly, resulting in a pleasant and consistent fragrance experience. 

A well-made soy candle by a reputable manufacturer, such as Candle World, is sure to provide the same intense, if not more so, fragrance experience.

🎨 Practical and environmental aspects

🌍 Renewability

• Soy wax is derived from vegetable oil - it is biodegradable and renewable.
• Paraffin comes from fossil fuels - does not renew naturally and has a greater environmental impact.

🧼 Cleaning and safety

• Soy wax is easier to remove from surfaces with clean water and soap.
• Paraffin may require solvents and is more difficult to clean. 

🧠 Summary - which candle is "better"?

There is no clear-cut answer for everyone, because "better" depends on your priorities:

🎯 Choose soy wax candles if:

you care about cleaner combustion and less soot;

you want longer smoking time and efficient use;

you value naturalness, renewable raw materials and a more even aroma;

🔥 Choose paraffin if:

the priority is a quick smell;

you care about the lower unit price of the candle;

you want a large amount of intensely perfumed aroma right off the bat.

💡 Shopping tips

✔️ Always read the composition of the candle - "100% soy wax" means no paraffin and greater potential for clean burning.

✔️ Check information on melting point and burning time - these data often determine the quality of the candle.

✔️ Select the candle according to the size of the room - a strong paraffin aroma may be too intense in a small room, and a light soy aroma from a small candle may not be enough in a large space.

🕯️ Frequently Asked Questions: Soy candles vs. paraffin

What is the difference between soy wax and paraffin wax?

Soy wax is a natural plant product extracted from soybeans. Paraffin is a by-product of the petrochemical industry, extracted during the refining of crude oil. They differ not only in origin, but also in combustion behavior.

Are soy candles healthier than paraffin candles?

Yes, soy candles are considered a safer choice, especially for sensitive people, children or those with allergies. When burning, they emit less soot and toxins, especially if they are well made and contain natural fragrances and a cotton wick.

Which type of candle burns longer - soy or paraffin candles?

Soy candles burn slower because they have a lower melting point (approx. 45-55°C), which translates into longer burning time. Paraffin candles melt more quickly, making their useful life shorter.

Do soy candles smell strong?

Contrary to myths - yes, but the smell can be more natural. Soy wax has a cleaner base that does not dampen the scent, but some people accustomed to the "perfume-like" intensity of paraffin wax may initially perceive it as softer.

Why the flame of a soy candle seems warmer?

That's right - soy candles tend to give a softer, yellow-golden light. Paraffin burns faster and brighter, which can make the flame appear cooler and more "white".

Which candles emit less soot and smoke?

Soy candles burn cleanly - if made correctly, they yield minimal soot, especially with the proper wick length. Paraffin candles are more likely to melt, especially if the wick is too long or there are drafts.

What are the ecological aspects of choosing a candle?

Soy wax is biodegradable and renewable. As a petroleum product, paraffin does not break down naturally and has a larger carbon footprint. If you are looking to make a more conscious purchase, choosing a soy candle will be more beneficial to the environment.

Are soy candles more expensive?

The price of soy candles can sometimes be higher, but this is followed by a longer burning time and higher quality ingredients. It's an investment in comfort and health - both for the householder and the planet. At Candle World we have combined the highest quality of 100% soy wax with a low price in our collection Everyday.

Can soy candles be allergenic?

Soy wax itself is rarely allergenic - it is recommended for allergy sufferers and sensitive people. However, it cannot be ruled out that you may be allergic to soy or essential oils or fragrance oils.

Which soy candles are worth choosing to start with?

It's worth reaching for candles with simple composition and clear labeling. At Candle World we create candle collections like Everyday, Vintage and Moments, created on the basis of 100% natural soy wax.

Want to learn more about how to burn soy candles to enjoy them longer? Take a look at our entry: How to burn soy candles - basic rules of burning soy candles