Sojawachs vs. Bienenwachs: Welche Kerze ist die bessere Wahl?

When you light a candle, do you ever think about what's actually burning?

Although candles are a staple in most homes, traditional paraffin candles which comprise most store-bought candles release pollutants like benzene and toluene (known carcinogens). In fact, studies show that burning paraffin candles contributes to indoor air pollution levels that exceed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards.

So, if you're trying to create a healthier home, embracing non-toxic living should you ditch candles? Not necessarily!

The good news is that natural wax alternatives like soy and beeswax candles offer a much cleaner and safer way to enjoy candles! The big debate? Soy vs beeswax candles.

Both are eco-friendly, and non-toxic, but which one truly stands out in terms of sustainability, health benefits, and performance?

In this article, we will weigh up the differences between soy and beeswax candles, covering everything- from burn time to superior scent - so you can decide which is a better option for your home!

 

What are Soy Wax Candles and Beeswax Candles Made of & Which is More Sustainable?

Soy Wax Candles

Soy wax - also known as hydrogenated soybean oil - is a renewable and biodegradable natural wax that's commonly used as an alternative to paraffin wax. However, not all soy candles are as 'natural' as they seem.

Soy wax is inherently paraffin-free, but some brands mix soy wax with paraffin to cut costs or alter texture, while others add synthetic fragrance and dyes introducing unwanted chemicals like phthalates (which have been linked to hormone disruption), which are common in scented candles!

For guaranteed purity:

• Look for 100% soy wax certifications (e.g., USDA BioPreferred),

• Avoid terms like 'soy blend' or 'natural wax blend' unless paraffin-free status is confirmed

• Avoid hidden additives like synthetic fragrance - instead opt for soy infused with essential oils or fragrance oils rather than

• Prioritize brands that disclose wax composition testing"

Did you know that 90% of soy production comes from genetically modified (GM) crops, which significantly contributes to deforestation and are heavily treated with pesticides? So, if sustainability is important to you - choose non-GMO and organic soy wax, as it's a more ethical, healthier and environmentally responsible option!

Our favorite brands for non toxic soy wax candles:

• Slow North* 

• P.F. Candle Co.*

Beeswax Candles

Beeswax is a natural wax made by honeybees, requiring minimal processing - which makes it one of the purest and most eco-friendly wax options! Unlike soy candles, pure beeswax candles have a naturally sweet, honey-like aroma, meaning they don't need added fragrances. However, if you prefer scented candles, look for beeswax candles blended with organic essential oils!

Not all beeswax candles are created equal - here are some things to note:

• Some brands bleach or add additives to their beeswax, that can introduce unwanted toxins. Stick to unbleached, 100% pure beeswax for the cleanest burn!

• Over-harvesting beeswax can negatively impact bee populations. Choose ethically sourced beeswax to support ethical beekeeping and pollination efforts!

Our favorite brands for beeswax candles:

• Happy Organics*

• Primally Pure Candles* (beeswax mixed with coconut wax)

• Living Good Candle Co.*

• Bluecorn*

• ARCTIC WICKS*

Air Purifying Properties: Soy vs Beeswax Candles

Soy Candles

Soy candles burn cleaner that paraffin wax, producing minimal soot. However, some studies suggest that even 100% soy wax can still release trace amounts pollutants like acrolein and formaldehyde, especially when mixed with synthetic fragrance oils.

These chemicals have been linked to the following health risks like eye and respiratory irritation, headaches and dizziness, and increased risk of certain cancers.

For the cleanest burn, go for 100% soy wax candles infused with essential or phthalate-free fragrance oils

Beeswax Candles

Beeswax candles emit little to no soot and harmful pollutants, and therefore widely considered to be the safest candle option.

They're also often even praised for their potential air-purifying properties- some believe that they release negative ions, which bind to airborne toxins and allergens, helping to remove them from the air. However, this claim isn't well supported by scientific research!

However, beeswax still offers proven benefits:

• Near-zero soot production (vs. soy's trace emissions)

• Natural hypoallergenic properties

• No synthetic fragrance requirements

That said, beeswax candles is completely natural and hypoallergenic - making it an excellent choice for people with allergies or respiratory sensitivities!

Wick Concerns: Lead and Heavy Metal Emissions

Surprisingly, it's not just the wax that determines how cleanly a candle burns - the wick matters too!

• Soy candles - some cheaper candles - especially paraffin-based or soy blends - use metal-core wicks, which can release heavy metals like lead into the air!

  • Although banned in the US in 2003, imported and older candles may still contain them.

• Beeswax candles - typically use cotton or wood wicks, making them a safer choice, with no risk of heavy metal emissions.

Opt for cotton or wood wicks when purchasing candles to avoid potential exposure to heavy metals.

Which Burns Longer: Soy vs Beeswax Candles

If you're looking for a longer-lasting candle, beeswax is the clear winner!

• Soy candles burns slower than paraffin wax, but faster than beeswax. They have a lower melting point meaning they provide a longer scent throw, and are an easy swap you're looking for easy replacement for your paraffin candle!

• Beeswax candles have the longest burn time of any wax and have the slowest burning rate compared to soy and paraffin wax, making it the best choice for longevity!

Scent Throw: Which Candle Smells Better?

Scent throw (how well a candle spreads its fragrance) depends on the type of wax and the scent source!

• Soy candles have a lower melting point, which allows them to hold and release fragrance more effectively. Being a natural unscented candle, they work well with essential or fragrance oils, providing a consistent and natural aroma that can be considered superior to beeswax!

• Beeswax candles have a natural honey aroma but are less effective at holding scents added scents. If you prefer a stronger fragrance, soy is the better choice.

For those with sensitivities, always prefer unscented candles or beeswax.

Soy vs Beeswax Candles Costs: Which is more budget friendly?

• Soy candles are the more affordable compared to beeswax due to lower production costs, typically ranging between $10- $30.

• Beeswax candles are often pricier, costing between $15-$70 due to limited availability and labor-intensive harvesting. However, their longer burn time and eco-friendliness helps to justify the higher price!

Final Verdict: Which is Better, Beeswax or Soy Candles?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer - it depends on what matters most to you!

Choose soy candles if you want a budget-friendly, long-lasting scented candle with great fragrance throw. Just make sure it’s 100% soy wax with essential oils or fragrance oils. However, some of the downsides to consider with soy candles include;

• May contain additives like synthetic fragrance or GMOs

• Shorter burn time than beeswax

Choose beeswax candles if you want the cleanest-burning, longest-lasting, and most natural wax option. Look for 100% pure, unbleached, and sustainably sourced beeswax. However, some of the downsides to consider with beeswax candles include;

• Limited scent options

• Overall more expensive

• Sustainability concerns if not ethically sourced

Both beeswax and soy candles have their limitations, but overall both are great additions to a non-toxic home! For vetted options, see our guide to non-toxic candles which contains inclusion of our top 13 non-toxic candle brands!

Key Takeaways

• Beeswax burns the cleanest & longest! If you're looking for the purest, longest-lasting candle with virtually no soot, beeswax is your best option - just make sure it's 100% pure & sustainably sourced!

• Soy candles are a great budget-friendly, scented option! They burn cleaner than paraffin, hold fragrance better than beeswax, and are more affordable—but watch out for additives & GMOs!

• Want better air quality? Go beeswax! Some claim beeswax candles purify the air by releasing negative ions (however, this is not confirmed by research) while soy candles still release trace pollutants, especially if mixed with synthetic fragrances.

• Wick matters! Avoid metal-core wicks, which can release heavy metals into the air. Stick with cotton or wood wicks for a cleaner burn!

• Both soy and beeswax candles are eco-friendly! - Non-GMO soy is better for the environment, while ethically sourced beeswax supports beekeepers & pollination—choose wisely!

FAQ

What is the healthiest wax to use for candles?

Beeswax is widely considered the healthiest candle wax due to its clean burn, minimal soot production, and natural air-purifying properties. It emits no harmful toxins and is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for people with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

Are beeswax candles better than soy?

Beeswax candles are better for those seeking the cleanest burn and longest burn time. They are hypoallergenic and emit a subtle honey scent without additives. Soy candles, however, excel in affordability, fragrance throw, and sustainability when made from non-GMO soybeans. The choice depends on your priorities: health and longevity (beeswax) or cost-effectiveness and scent variety (soy)

What is the healthiest candle wax to burn?

Beeswax is the healthiest candle wax to burn due to its natural composition, clean burn, and ability to release negative ions that may help reduce indoor pollutants. Organic beeswax candles are even better as they are free from pesticides. Soy wax is also a healthy alternative but may emit trace pollutants if mixed with synthetic fragrances

What lasts longer beeswax or soy wax?

Beeswax candles last significantly longer than soy candles due to their higher melting point and dense structure. For example, a 100g beeswax candle can burn for approximately 29 hours compared to 18 hours for a soy candle of the same size. This makes beeswax the better choice for durability.

What are the cons of soy wax?

Soy wax has a few drawbacks: it has a lower melting point, making it sensitive to heat and prone to softening or warping in warm conditions. It may also have a subtler scent throw compared to paraffin or beeswax candles. Additionally, most soy crops are genetically modified and heavily treated with pesticides unless labeled organic or non-GMO.