When choosing a candle, many people consider scent and aesthetics, but have you thought about how it affects your health and the environment? Not all candles are created equal—some release harmful toxins, while others burn cleanly and even purify the air. In this guide, we’ll compare beeswax, paraffin, and soy candles to help you make an informed, eco-friendly choice.
1. Beeswax Candles: The Cleanest and Most Natural Choice
We may be biased, but you can't deny the science when it comes to beeswax.
Health Benefits:
✔ 100% natural and free from synthetic chemicals.
✔ Releases negative ions, which help to neutralize airborne toxins, dust, and allergens.
✔ Non-toxic, safe for those with asthma, allergies, or sensitivities.
Environmental Impact:
✔ Sustainably sourced from local bees, making it a renewable resource and with no air miles.
✔ Biodegradable and does not contribute to landfill waste.
✔ Burns without releasing pollutants or soot.
Performance:
✔ Longest burn time compared to paraffin and soy.
✔ Burns with a natural honey-like scent, even when unscented.
✔ Produces a bright, warm light similar to natural sunlight.
2. Paraffin Candles: The Hidden Health Risks
Health Concerns:
✖ Made from petroleum byproducts, meaning they contain toxic chemicals.
✖ Releases benzene and toluene, known carcinogens.
✖ Produces black soot, which can affect indoor air quality.
Environmental Impact:
✖ Derived from fossil fuels, making it non-renewable and unsustainable.
✖ Contributes to air pollution.
✖ Often mixed with synthetic dyes and fragrances that release VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Performance:
✔ Cheaper and widely available.
✖ Burns quickly, requiring more frequent replacement.
✖ Produces more soot and an artificial smell.
3. Soy Candles: A Popular Alternative, but Not Perfect
Health Benefits:
✔ Cleaner than paraffin but not as pure as beeswax.
✔ Free from petroleum-based toxins.
✖ Often blended with paraffin (check labels carefully).
Environmental Impact:
✔ Derived from soybeans, a renewable resource.
✖ Heavily processed, requiring pesticides and chemicals.
✖ Large-scale soy farming contributes to deforestation.
Performance:
✔ Longer burn time than paraffin but shorter than beeswax.
✔ Holds fragrance well, but can produce a weaker scent throw.
✖ Can be prone to tunneling and uneven burning.
Which Candle Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for the cleanest, most sustainable, and healthiest candle, beeswax is the best option. While soy is a better alternative to paraffin, it still comes with environmental and performance drawbacks.
By choosing 100% pure beeswax candles, you’re investing in:
✅ Cleaner indoor air with no harmful toxins.
✅ A longer-lasting burn, saving you money over time.
✅ A truly eco-friendly, sustainable option that supports beekeeping.
Ready to make the switch to natural, non-toxic, eco-friendly candles? Browse our handcrafted beeswax candle collection today!