At Seventh Avenue Candles, we’re firmly care about the origins of our wax. Here’s an in-depth look at where soy wax comes from and the processes that transform it into the perfect medium for our candles.
The Origins of Soybeans
Soy wax begins with the soybean, a remarkable legume grown primarily in South America, including Argentina and Brazil, as well as in the United States and Europe. Rich in protein and essential fatty acids, soybeans have long been a staple in agriculture. They are harvested, cleaned, and cracked open to reveal their oil-rich core.
Transforming Soybeans into Soy Wax
The Initial Processing:
The harvested soybeans are cleaned thoroughly to remove impurities. Once cleaned, they are cracked and de-hulled, leaving the inner soy kernels. These kernels are then rolled into fine flakes, which are crucial for extracting the oil.
The Extraction of Soybean Oil:
The next step is extracting the oil from these flakes. This is done using advanced methods such as solvent extraction or mechanical pressing. The extracted oil is then refined to remove any residual impurities, ensuring a pure base for the next stage.
Hydrogenation: The Key to Soy Wax:
The refined soybean oil undergoes a critical transformation through hydrogenation. This process involves adding hydrogen to the oil, which alters its chemical structure and solidifies it at room temperature. Hydrogenation increases the oil’s melting point and creates a stable, solid wax that is ideal for candle making.
The Advantages of Soy Wax
Soy wax has surged in popularity since the 1990s, praised for being a more stable and affordable alternative than beeswax and a greener choice compared to paraffin. Its consistent burn and lower environmental impact make it an excellent choice for eco-conscious consumers. Here are some more benefits:
1. Sustainable and Renewable
Soy wax is a renewable resource made from soybean oil. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite, soybeans grow with sunlight and rain, making soy wax a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. Our candles support a greener planet with every burn.
2. Cleaner Burning
Our soy wax candles burn cleanly without emitting the petrol-carbon soot found in paraffin candles. This means you can enjoy a purer ambiance in your home without the worry of indoor air pollutants.
3. Extended Burn Time
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the longevity of our soy wax candles. They can last up to 50% longer than their paraffin counterparts, providing exceptional value and more hours of delightful fragrance.
4. Pure and Natural Ingredients
We use soy wax from GM-free soybeans that haven’t been treated with pesticides or herbicides. This ensures that even before you light one of our candles, you’re enjoying a product made from clean, natural ingredients.
5. Fragrance Retention
Soy wax is excellent at holding onto fragrances. From the moment you light your candle to the day you need to replace it, the scent remains strong and consistent, enriching your space with enduring aromas.
6. Effortless Cleanup
If you ever spill melted soy wax, cleanup is a breeze. Simply use hot water and soap, and the wax comes off easily without any fuss—ideal for maintaining a tidy and welcoming environment.
7. No Added Dyes or Chemicals
Our candles are made without added colorants or dyes. We focus solely on premium fragrances to deliver rich, natural scents, and our candles come in elegant white or cream, free from unnecessary chemicals and additives.
8. Animal-Friendly Production
We are committed to cruelty-free practices. No animal testing is involved in the production of our soy wax candles, reflecting our love for animals and our ethical values.
9. Designed for Optimal Burning
We use specially designed wicks that work perfectly with soy wax, ensuring an efficient burn. These wicks help you enjoy every bit of the wax you purchase, minimizing waste and maximizing your candle’s performance.
10. Biodegradable and Eco-Conscious
The soy wax in our candles is biodegradable, which means it breaks down naturally and doesn’t contribute to environmental harm. It’s a thoughtful choice for those who care about both their home and the planet.
Some Key Insights About Natural Candles
Apart from being a huge trend, natural candles represent a cleaner, more eco-conscious choice for candle enthusiasts. If you’re considering making the switch, here’s what you need to know about these environmentally friendly options:
1. Fewer Chemicals for a Healthier Burn
Natural candles, such as those made from beeswax or soy wax, avoid the use of paraffin, which is derived from petroleum. This means they have fewer chemicals, aligning better with a clean and healthy lifestyle. Their minimal chemical content makes them a great choice for those seeking a purer candle experience.
2. Longevity and Value
When it comes to longevity, natural candles outperform their paraffin counterparts. They generally burn longer, offering excellent value for your money. Enjoy extended hours of ambiance and fragrance without having to frequently replace your candles.
3. Support Local Economies
Many natural candles are crafted locally, which helps support local businesses and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping. By choosing locally made natural candles, you contribute to your community’s economy and enjoy products that are fresher and more sustainable.
4. Subtle and Elegant Fragrances
Natural candles often provide a more understated fragrance compared to the sometimes overpowering scents of paraffin candles. Many people appreciate the delicate aroma of soy wax candles, which can add a refined touch to any space without overwhelming the senses.
5. Respiratory-Friendly Choice
For those with respiratory issues, natural candles are a superior option. The absence of paraffin and other chemicals in these candles means fewer pollutants are released into the air, creating a cleaner and more breathable environment.
What to Watch Out For with Inexpensive Soy Candles
While the benefits of soy wax candles are well-documented, not all soy candles are created equal. Here’s what you should be aware of:
The Risks of Cheap Soy Blends
Be cautious with inexpensive soy candles, as they often contain a mix of soy and paraffin wax. The less pure the soy wax, the more synthetic additives it may include. Always check the labels to determine the soy content and avoid candles that don’t meet your quality standards.
Quality Matters in Candle Burning
Cheap soy candles can sometimes exhibit poor burning performance, such as tunnelling. We pride ourselves on crafting candles that burn evenly and efficiently, thanks to our rigorous testing. Our 100% soy wax candles offer a superior burn, ensuring you get the best experience with every light.
How is soy wax created?
Soy wax is crafted from soybean oil. After harvesting, soybeans are cleaned, cracked, de-hulled, and turned into flakes. The oil is then extracted and undergoes hydrogenation, which converts unsaturated fats into saturated fats, solidifying the oil into wax.
Is soy wax environmentally friendly?
Yes, soy wax is biodegradable and made from a renewable, plant-based resource. Unlike petroleum-based waxes, it breaks down naturally, making it a more eco-friendly choice for candles and other applications. Its sustainability helps reduce environmental impact.
Is soy wax vegan?
Indeed, soy wax is vegan-friendly. Unlike beeswax, which comes from bees and is debated within vegan communities, soy wax is entirely plant-based. It offers a cruelty-free alternative for those avoiding animal products and by-products in their products.
What are the healthiest candles to use?
Soy wax, coconut wax, and beeswax are among the healthiest options for candles. Look for labels that specify 100% soy or beeswax, and choose products that are sustainably sourced and cruelty-free to ensure you're using non-toxic and environmentally responsible candles.
Is soy wax toxic-free?
Yes, soy wax is toxic-free. As a natural wax, it produces fewer pollutants and less soot compared to other waxes. This results in cleaner indoor air, making soy candles a better choice for those with respiratory issues or allergies.
Do soy wax candles clean the air?
Soy wax candles burn cleaner than paraffin candles, releasing minimal soot into the air. Although some soot may occur, it is significantly less compared to paraffin. This contributes to better indoor air quality, making soy candles a healthier option.
What is special about soy wax?
Soy wax stands out for its lower melting point, which allows it to burn cooler and last longer than paraffin. It is biodegradable, non-toxic, and vegan-friendly, derived from pesticide-free soybeans, making it an eco-friendly and long-lasting candle choice.
Is soy wax better than candle wax?
Yes, soy wax is superior to paraffin wax. It is a natural, hydrogenated oil that burns cleaner, producing less soot and toxins. This makes soy wax a healthier option for both the environment and your well-being, offering a cleaner, more sustainable burn.