Linea's Lights - They even provide the matches
Why I love Linnea’s Lights and Lafco candles
Being surrounded by flickering Linnea’s Lights and sage scented Lafco candles put me in the mood to look into the history of soy candles.
The traditional way of making candles is by using paraffin wax. Although the material is readily available, use of paraffin has its disadvantages. Over the years, people have sought for better alternatives. One type of candle creating a name in the market involves soy. Soy candles have numerous benefits over its counterparts made from paraffin wax or petroleum. Read on to learn more about why you should consider a soy candle over its traditional counterparts.
Advantages of Soy Candles
• Lasts Longer
Using soy-based candles is more cost-effective. Burning a standard 14 oz. candle made from soy will last 30% to 50% longer than other types of candles of the same size. A paraffin-based candle can last for approximately 75 hours when used non-stop. On the other hand, a soy candle of the same size can last well over 100 hours. The reason for this is that soy burns slower. Although soy-based candles are more expensive, the savings accumulate the longer you use soy candles.
• Burns Cleaner
Paraffin produces black soot when burned or ignited. You can see this as black heavy smoke when the candle is burned. The black residue remains on the candle and around the immediate area where the candle was used. If you are a heavy candle user, you may notice the walls of your home getting darker because of the residue left behind by the paraffin. Although a number of candle manufacturers may claim that their product is completely soot-free, there is no such thing as a soot-free candle. The only way for a candle to be truly soot-free is to produce a blue flame similar to a propane torch. Such high temperature flames would consume the entire candle and not leave any residue behind. Soy-based candles are not completely soot-free but produce a smaller amount of the black residue as compared to candles made with paraffin. Compared to petroleum-based candles, soy candles produce no more than 10 percent of soot. This leaves your home and the air inside it much cleaner.
Another reason for the soot is the type of wick used to make the candle. Some paraffin candles use zinc wicks. These produce more soot than candles that use hemp. If you want candles that produce as little soot as possible, choose soy-based types that use hemp wicks.
• Does Not Produce Carcinogens
Numerous studies have shown that burning charcoal and paraffin or petroleum-based candles also produce carcinogens. These are released into the air. Even with well-ventilated spaces, some of the residue gets left behind. Inhaling the carcinogens increases the chances of developing cancer later on. As the ingredients are commonly found in nature, they cause fewer allergies. This makes the soy candle a healthier alternative for kids and pets as compared to paraffin or other petroleum-based candles.
Lafco Candles with scents of cedar or evergreen
Scented candles use essential oils. The aroma of these oils is released once the candle starts burning. Soy mixes well and works better with essential oils. As soy candles burn slower, the scent lasts longer. The scent is also more subtle as compared to paraffin or petroleum-based candles. This is more suitable for individuals who are more sensitive to strong smells. As the soy-based scent is more delicate, you can use it for candlelight dinners without worrying about the scent overpowering the aroma of the food. Essentially, use of soy candles creates a more soothing environment. Soy-based candles also look more appealing as they mix and retain color well.
• Produces Less Heat
Soy-based candles burn and melt at lower temperatures. This means any type of container, whether it is a jar or candlestick, will not break due to heat. On the other hand, burning candles can still wreak havoc in any home or interior and should not be left unattended. Candles should only be used for a maximum of five hours at a time.
• Easier to Clean
If you have used paraffin candles in the past then you know how tricky it is to clean up the spills they leave behind. The residue produced by a petroleum-based candle is difficult to remove, making lasting stains on the fabric or material. On the other hand, soybean wax stains are easier to remove. Simply use hot water mixed with soap to remove any soy residue.
• Popular and Easy to Make
Soy-based candles are made from soybean wax. Also referred to as hydrogenated soybean oil, it is found in a wide range of foods including oils and animal feed. A wide variety of Asian dishes also include soy products as ingredients. As a widely available natural resource, large companies to hobbyists can make soy candles. Some of the more well-known brands include Linnea’s Lights and Lafco Candles.
• Utilizes Local Resources
Soy can be found and harvested locally. This reduces the need to import raw materials to make candles. The materials do not need to be transported far either. As a renewable resource, this makes it more environmentally-friendly as compared to paraffin or petroleum-based ingredients.
Local farms can easily plant and harvest the material for use in making soy candles, foods and other items. Supporting locally-made products increases the demand for such produce and merchandise. This can help generate more jobs related to harvesting soy and creating soy candles.
Disadvantages of Soy Candles
• More Expensive to Buy
One of the few disadvantages of using soy-based candles is its price. As paraffin candles are more readily available, petroleum-based candles are still slightly cheaper. However, the demand and supply of candles using soybean wax is rising steadily. You may find that both types of candles share the same price range in some stores.
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