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The Truth About "Soy Wax Blend" Candles: What You're Really Breathing


Pure soy wax flakes about to be melted down in our Waikato-based rural studio.
Pure soy wax flakes about to be melted down in our Waikato-based rural studio.

I had one of those lightbulb moments during my weekly shopping trip this weekend. As I strolled through the candle aisle, I found myself stunned at how inexpensive some of the candles were. As a small-batch candle maker who understands wholesale margins, I was genuinely perplexed.

That's when I noticed those three little words on the label: "soy wax blend."

Ah. Mystery solved.


What Does "Soy Wax Blend" Actually Mean?


You might be surprised to learn that there appears to be no standardised definition or minimum percentage requirement for what constitutes a "soy wax blend" in the candle industry. The Federal Trade Commission has general truth-in-advertising guidelines, but there are no specific regulations defining what percentage of soy wax must be present for a candle to be marketed as a "soy blend."


This regulatory gap means manufacturers can potentially use predominantly paraffin with a small amount of soy and still market it as a "blend" - a practice that isn't technically illegal but could certainly be misleading..


This lack of transparency is concerning, especially when you consider what you're bringing into your home and breathing when you light these candles.


Paraffin vs. Pure Soy: What's the Difference?


Paraffin Wax


  • Derived from petroleum (a non-renewable resource)

  • Releases potentially harmful chemicals when burned, including toluene and benzene

  • Studies from the American Chemical Society have found that paraffin candles release unwanted chemicals into the air

  • Typically burns hotter and faster (meaning your candle doesn't last as long)

  • Significantly cheaper to produce (hence those tempting price tags)


Pure Soy Wax


  • Made from soybeans (a renewable resource)

  • Burns cleaner with minimal soot

  • Typically burns 30-50% longer than paraffin candles

  • Biodegradable

  • Supports farmers (most soy is grown in the U.S.)

  • More expensive to produce (which is reflected in the price)


The Price Difference Explained


There's a substantial cost difference between pure soy wax and paraffin. In fact, pure soy wax typically costs manufacturers 2 to 3 times more than paraffin wax. Considering that wax makes up about 90% of a candle's composition, this significant material cost difference directly impacts the final price you see on the shelf.


Our Little Batch Promise


At Little Batch Wax Co., we use ONLY pure soy wax (GMO-free) and phthalate-free fragrance oils. This commitment means:


  • Cleaner burning candles that won't leave black soot on your walls or in your lungs

  • Longer-lasting candles that give you more value for your money

  • Peace of mind knowing exactly what you're bringing into your home


I'm not here to judge anyone's candle choices—I'm thrilled that you're incorporating candles into your home and slow moments. I simply want to ensure you're fully informed about what you're purchasing and why there's a price difference between our candles and those "soy blends" you might see elsewhere.

When you choose Little Batch Wax Co., you're choosing transparency, quality, and candles made with care for both you and the environment.


Breathe easy and enjoy your slow moments.


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