Are Soy Candles Safe

If you're wondering, "Are soy candles safe?" you're definitely not alone. Soy candles have become a favorite for people seeking an eco-friendly, healthier alternative to traditional candles. But while they're often praised for being natural, it's important to explore their safety in more detail. This article will give you the full picture of soy candles and why they’re considered a safe option for your home.

What Are Soy Candles?

Soy candles are made from soybean oil, a renewable and natural resource. The process involves extracting oil from soybeans, which is then processed into wax. Unlike traditional paraffin candles that are made from petroleum, soy wax is biodegradable and burns cleaner. This natural ingredient allows soy candles to burn longer and with less soot.

What makes soy candles safe is their clean-burning nature. They don’t release the toxic chemicals associated with paraffin wax, making them a healthier choice for your home.

Are Soy Candles Safe for Your Health?

One of the main reasons people ask, “Are soy candles safe?” is due to concerns about indoor air quality and exposure to harmful chemicals. Here's the good news: soy candles are non-toxic and don’t release harmful substances like toluene or benzene when burned. Paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, can emit these potentially harmful chemicals, which have been linked to respiratory problems and other health concerns.

Soy candles, on the other hand, are made from natural, plant-based ingredients that don't produce the same risks. When burned, soy candles emit minimal soot, which means they are much less likely to affect indoor air quality. For people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory concerns, soy candles provide a safer, healthier option for creating a cozy atmosphere in your home. Some soy candles are made with a tiny amount of food grade paraffin which is also non toxic and phthalate free. Soy blend candles are also a safe option if they use a high quality paraffin wax. 

Moreover, soy candles tend to burn cooler than most paraffin candles, meaning they are less likely to overheat and cause burns if touched accidentally. This makes them safer in homes with children or pets.

Soy Candles and the Environment

If you're wondering, “Are soy candles safe for the environment?”—the answer is yes. Soy candles are far more eco-friendly than 100% paraffin candles. Since soy wax is derived from soybeans, it is a renewable resource, unlike paraffin, which is made from petroleum—a non-renewable, fossil fuel. Soy candles are also biodegradable, meaning they won't harm the environment when disposed of, unlike paraffin candles, which can take years to break down.

Additionally, soy wax burns more efficiently and slowly than paraffin, meaning soy candles last longer. This helps reduce waste because you’ll need fewer candles to achieve the same amount of burn time. By choosing soy candles, you are supporting a more sustainable, eco-conscious product.

Ingredients in Soy Candles

While soy wax itself is safe, it’s important to look at the other ingredients that may be included in soy candles. Some soy candles may contain synthetic fragrances, dyes, or additives that can negatively impact air quality and potentially cause allergic reactions.

For a truly safe, natural candle, always check the label and choose soy candles made with primarily soy wax and natural, non-toxic ingredients. Some soy candles also use natural colorants to avoid the risks associated with artificial dyes. At Fellowship Candle Co, all our candles are non toxic, phthalate free, and are made of primarily soy wax with a small amount of high quality food grade paraffin to promote a better burn. Check put our non toxic soy candles for some great options for your home. 

To ensure you're purchasing a safe soy candle, consider choosing products from reputable brands that are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes. Certified organic or eco-friendly brands are often a good choice.

Are Soy Candles Safe for Pets and Kids?

If you have pets or children, you might be particularly concerned about the safety of your candles. Thankfully, soy candles are a safer option for families with little ones or furry friends. Soy wax is non-toxic, so there’s no need to worry about harmful fumes. However, as with any candle, precautions should be taken to ensure safety in your home.

• Keep Candles Out of Reach: Always place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces, and keep them out of the reach of children and pets. Candles can be a fire hazard if knocked over or played with, so it’s important to ensure they are in safe locations.

• Never Leave Candles Unattended: Never leave a burning candle unattended, particularly if you have curious kids or pets who may accidentally knock it over. Always extinguish the candle before leaving the room or going to bed.

• Trim the Wick: Trimming the wick to about 1/4 inch helps prevent large flames and reduces the amount of soot produced, which is important for maintaining a safe environment.

By following these basic safety guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of soy candles without worrying about the risks for your children or pets.

Tips for Safe Use of Soy Candles

While soy candles are generally considered safe, there are still some best practices you should follow to ensure they burn safely and efficiently:

1. Trim the Wick: Before lighting your soy candle, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This helps prevent excessive flames, soot buildup, and helps the candle burn more evenly.

2. Burn in a Well-Ventilated Area: Even though soy candles produce less soot, it’s still a good idea to burn them in a well-ventilated space. This will help ensure the air stays fresh and clear.

3. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended: As with all candles, it’s important never to leave them unattended. Accidents can happen, and it's always safer to extinguish the candle when you're not around.

4. Keep Candles on a Stable Surface: Always place your candle on a flat, stable surface away from any flammable materials. Make sure the surface is heat-resistant to prevent any accidents.

5. Allow Candles to Cool: After burning your candle, allow it to cool completely before moving or handling it. This will prevent burns or spills.

Final Verdict: Are Soy Candles Safe for You and Your Home?

So, are soy candles safe? Yes, they absolutely are! Soy candles are a great option for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home without the health and environmental concerns associated with traditional paraffin wax candles. They are non-toxic, biodegradable, and produce less soot and harmful chemicals. By choosing high-quality soy candles made with natural ingredients and following safe candle practices, you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable way to light up your space.

In conclusion, soy candles not only provide a safer, more eco-friendly alternative to 100% paraffin candles, but they also offer a longer, cleaner burn. So, the next time you're looking for a candle to brighten your home, you can confidently choose soy candles knowing that they are both safe for your health and the planet.