Soy or Paraffin wax

Soy or Paraffin wax is one of the most common questions that gets asked.

Paraffin wax

Paraffin wax is grey, almost blue and translucent in colour. It is a derivative of the oil industry,

First created in Germany by Chemist Karl Von Reichenbach when he was discovering waxy substances occurring in petroleum. This discovery transformed the candle industry as up to this point Tallow had been used in Candle making.

Paraffin candles melt point is higher making it suitable for Pillar candles.

It is insoluble in water so solvents have to be used to clean it up.

Often used in crayon manufacturing.

Soy wax

Opaque and creamy in appearance Soy wax is very pretty to use. Soy wax is the type of wax we use at Candle Towers because it is 100% soy vegetable bean.

It is softer to use than other waxes so usually suitable for a container candle, it is solid at room temperature but would have a tendency to melt in hotter climes. I have previously tried this as a pillar candle, making it into a gorgeous Santa Head but it was too soft. This also means it has a lower melting point, because it burns lower it does last longer.

Just remember to trim your wick before each light and ‘dip your wick’ read about those tips here Candle wick dipper

Because Soy wax burns lower than other candle waxes so sometimes the scent throw isn’t as bold. It does give a great ‘cold scent throw’, there are additives you can use to give a bigger scent throw but here at Candle Towers we prefer to keep the ingredients simple. Clean burning and virtually soot free.

For me Soy wax is sustainable and renewable. What gets left over in the production of the soy wax is used for animal feed.

An added bonus is that you can wash it out with soap and water, and that applies if you do happen to splash some on clothing.

Soy wax photo credit Michelle Van Tine

Paraffin wax photo credit wikipedia

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