The Surprising Benefits of Soy Candles (And Why Everyone’s Making the Switch)

Candles have been part of human culture for centuries—used for light, ceremonies, relaxation, and even romance. But recently, there’s been a shift toward more eco-conscious options, and soy candles are leading the charge. If you're still using paraffin wax candles or wondering what all the hype is about, this guide is for you.

What Are Soy Candles?

Soy candles are made from soy wax—a natural, renewable substance derived from soybean oil. Unlike paraffin, which is a by-product of petroleum, soy wax is biodegradable and cleaner burning.

The Benefits of Soy Candles

Using soy candles offers more than just a nice aroma—they come with a suite of benefits that make them better for your health, your home, and the planet.

1. Cleaner Burn

Paraffin wax releases harmful chemicals like toluene and benzene when burned. Soy candles, in contrast, burn cleaner and emit significantly less soot, helping to maintain better air quality in your space.

2. Longer Burn Time

Soy wax burns slower than paraffin, which means your candle lasts longer. While it may seem like you're paying a little more upfront, soy candles give you more hours of burn time—making them more economical in the long run.

3. Better Scent Throw

Soy candles hold fragrance better because they burn more slowly and evenly. That means the aroma is released gradually, providing a pleasant and long-lasting scent experience.

Myth-Busting: Are Soy Candles Bad?

Let’s address the elephant in the room. There’s a growing misconception online questioning, “Why are soy candles bad?” The truth is—they’re not. Let’s break down the most common myths.

Myth 1: Soy Wax Is Genetically Modified

While it's true that many soybeans are GMOs, the final wax product undergoes processing that removes genetic material. If this still concerns you, look for brands that use non-GMO or organic soy wax, like us.

At Ivory Wild, our soy candles use high-quality wax and come in soothing scents like lavender to help you unwind naturally.

Myth 2: Soy Wax Still Contains Chemicals

All waxes contain some form of additive to enhance performance (burn rate, color, scent throw). But soy wax has fewer additives than paraffin and is typically blended with other plant-based waxes rather than synthetic ones.

Myth 3: Soy Is Unsustainable

The reality is that soy farming in the UK and Europe is becoming more sustainable. Our soy candles are made from responsibly sourced soybeans and use biodegradable packaging.

Soy Candles vs. Paraffin Candles

Feature	Soy Candles	Paraffin Candles
Source	Natural (soybean oil)	Petroleum byproduct
Burn Time	Longer	Shorter
Soot	Minimal	High
Fragrance Throw	Even and long-lasting	Quick but short-lived
Sustainability	Renewable and biodegradable	Non-renewable

Why Choose Ivory Wild’s Soy Candles?

We hand-pour every candle in the UK using premium soy wax, cotton wicks, and fragrance oils that create a lasting sensory experience. Plus, our products come in biodegradable packaging and tin containers you can reuse or recycle.

🍂 Pumpkin Spice 235ml Soy Candle

Wrap your space in the warm, nostalgic scent of autumn. Our Pumpkin Spice soy candle blends notes of cinnamon, clove, and sweet pumpkin for a cosy, comforting aroma that feels like home on a crisp day. Perfect for winding down with a book or adding seasonal charm to any room. Shop Pumpkin Spice Candle →

🥥 Coconut 235ml Soy Candle

Bring a touch of tropical calm to your home. The Coconut soy candle fills your space with creamy, sun-warmed coconut and a hint of vanilla—evoking the serenity of beach days and barefoot mornings. It’s the perfect scent for light, breezy vibes all year round. Shop Coconut Candle →

Where to Place Soy Candles at Home

1. Living Room – Great for cozy evenings or guests. Try soothing scents like lavender or vanilla.

2. Bathroom – Use coconut or citrus for a spa-like refresh.

3. Bedroom – Opt for relaxing fragrances like chamomile or patchouli.

4. Home Office – Invigorating scents like peppermint or eucalyptus can boost focus.

   
   

   

Complementary Products You’ll Love

Pairing your soy candles with the right accessories can enhance their effectiveness and lifespan.

extra long safety matches for lighting candles

candle wick trimmer

eco friendly wooden tea light candle holder

How to Get the Most Out of Your Soy Candle

• Trim the wick to ¼ inch before each use.

• Let the wax pool reach the edge of the jar on first burn to prevent tunneling.

• Burn in intervals of 2–3 hours to maintain fragrance and safety.

• Store properly—away from direct sunlight and heat.

  
  

A Final Word on Soy Candles

So, are soy candles really so bad? Absolutely not. In fact, they offer one of the most eco-conscious and health-friendly ways to bring warmth, light, and fragrance into your home. Whether you're making the switch for sustainability, performance, or aesthetic, soy candles are a beautiful addition to any home—and we're proud to offer some of the best at Ivory Wild.

Shop the Collection

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’ve been on the fence about switching to soy, now’s the perfect time to give it a try. Explore our full collection at www.ivorywild.co.uk and enjoy free UK shipping on orders over £30!