In the hectic world we live today, we all need as much relaxation as we can get. Sometimes, when the daily schedule is full of errands, it’s easy to forget how important it is to take some time to unwind; then again there are times when we can’t afford to get that soothing massage at the local spa as often as we want, or go on an unforgettable trip.



And yet, relaxation doesn’t have to break your bank, in fact all you need is a couple of candles to beat the blues, curb away the effects of stress and forget about the dreadful day you had at work; think of a nice candlelit dinner at home with your loved one, or a bath with a candle beside you to watch it burn slowly as you soak up – sounds amazing doesn’t it!?

Source: candles.lovetoknow.com

People have used candles for centuries as main light sources, as well as for celebrations, and of course for religious purposes. They’re still very much used today, especially for ceremonies and calming purposes at home, in the example of the hygge lifestyle trend, so they’ve gone far from being available in just animal fat and beeswax.



As beneficial as they can be, a word of caution is to be careful with the choices we make with the candles, and buy safe choices like the versatile soy wax candles instead of those made of paraffin wax. The latter type is dangerous because it’s made of petroleum or oil shale and when burning inside the homes releases VOCs (volatile organic compounds), such as toluene, benzene and acetone, which in turn cause indoor air pollution.



Now that the awareness of why organic is better than artificial is on the rise thanks to organic trends, many are buying soy based candles, so the market is abundant; you’re even likely to find naturally scented ones if you want to reap the benefits of aromatherapy too. It’s important to note that not everything is organic as represented, so it’s necessary to buy from trusted shops and always read the label to check for ingredients.

A Sustainable Alternative


The dangerous paraffin apart, there are other options that are acceptable, like beeswax, however given the limited supply it can be pricier also. This isn’t the case with soy candles made of vegetable wax from soybeans, a renewable source - the very property that makes them considerably more affordable and biodegradable. It’s needless to say they’re ideal for vegans, the eco-aware, as well as everyone who wants a healthier choice.


A Clean Burn


As mentioned, they’re a much safer choice than paraffin, and the clean burn they provide which doesn’t end up in black soot works great even for those who are sensitive or allergic to fragrances and the chemicals in them; soy wax won’t give you any of the following symptoms: runny and stuffed nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, sinus issues or headaches.


A Long Burn


Thanks to both the lower melting point and the cooler burning temperature (no worries of burns if you accidentally spill the wax on your skin), soy wax candles can burn up to 50% longer than the paraffin alternative, though it also depends on the size of the wick. This makes them a more efficient option as there’s a longer lifespan and you won’t even have to worry about any bits gone to waste considering they burn evenly.

Source: finesse.com.mt

An Easy Clean-Up


The fact they don’t give off black soot rids means you won’t have to fret it would end on your walls, curtains, carpet or the ventilation system. Besides, the lower burning temperature is suitable even if you spill some of the soy wax. This is so because you’d be able to clean it up easily without the need to use any harsh chemicals.


A Greater Adaptability


Simple and safe to work with, the soybean wax offers the possibility to create a vast array of shapes, sizes and designs of candles, as well as experiment creating various blends mixing it with beeswax, for instance, then various scents and colours with the help of essential oils and natural vegetable-based dyes.


Things to Know When Choosing Your Candle


  • When buying your soy candle, it’s important to make sure you read the label well to see what the exact ingredients are so you don’t buy one that’s got some toxic compounds. Don’t buy something just because it’s cheap – choose quality!
  • If you’re allergic to scents, look for candles with essential oils for fragrances, or buy one without scents.
  • When choosing coloured options, check whether they contain artificial toxic colours.
  • Wanting to make good use of the purchase and cut down on your waste, you’d make the most by including the type of vessel they come in too in your decision; once the candle is gone, you can upcycle the glass, metal, ceramic or concrete they come in as holders for makeup, coins, toothbrushes, or planters, as some ideas.