Beeswax vs. Soy Wax: Which Candle Wax Is Better for Your Home?
When it comes to choosing the perfect candle, scent is usually the first thing people consider — but what about the type of wax?
Two of the most popular options in the clean candle space are beeswax and soy wax. Both are considered natural, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional paraffin, but they have distinct differences in performance, sustainability, scent throw, and cost.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of beeswax vs. soy wax so you can find the right fit for your space, your values, and your vibe.
What Is Soy Wax?
Soy wax is a vegetable wax made from soybean oil. It’s biodegradable, renewable, and one of the most widely used waxes for eco-friendly candles. It burns cleanly and slowly, which makes it a favorite for home fragrance lovers — especially those looking for a non-toxic option.
What Is Beeswax?
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honey bees. It’s been used in candle-making for thousands of years and is prized for its naturally sweet, honey-like scent. Beeswax candles are firm, slow-burning, and don’t require synthetic additives — making them a luxurious, all-natural choice.
Key Differences Between Beeswax and Soy Wax
| Feature | Soy Wax | Beeswax |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Soybean oil (plant-based) | Honeybee byproduct (animal-based) |
| Scent | Neutral or enhanced with fragrance | Naturally sweet (light honey) |
| Burn Time | Long-lasting | Even longer burn time |
| Smoke/Soot | Very low | Nearly zero |
| Color | Creamy white | Golden yellow |
| Sustainability | Renewable, vegan-friendly | Natural but not vegan |
| Cost | Affordable | Typically more expensive |
| Ideal For | Scented candles, everyday use |
Hypoallergenic needs, luxury use |
Benefits of Soy Wax Candles
1. Clean & Non-Toxic
Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin, producing less soot and releasing fewer toxins into the air.
2. Great for Scent Throw
Because it holds fragrance oils well, soy wax is perfect for scented candles. Whether you love floral, fruity, or musky profiles, soy wax delivers a balanced aroma.
3. Budget-Friendly & Accessible
Soy candles tend to be more affordable, making them a go-to choice for everyday use or gifting.
Benefits of Beeswax Candles
1. Naturally Air-Purifying
Beeswax candles release negative ions as they burn, which can bind to allergens and dust — making them ideal for those with allergies or sensitivities.
2. Longer Burn Time
Because of its density and higher melting point, beeswax burns slower and cleaner, giving you more burn time per ounce.
3. No Added Fragrance Needed
Beeswax has a soft, natural honey scent, which means no artificial fragrances are necessary — great for purists or scent-sensitive users.
Which Wax Should You Choose?
It depends on your preferences!
Choose soy wax if you:
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Love strong, diverse scents
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Want a vegan and plant-based candle
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Prefer a budget-friendly option
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Burn candles daily
Choose beeswax if you:
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Want a natural, unscented or lightly scented candle
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Have allergies or asthma
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Prefer the longest burn time possible
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Enjoy luxury, minimalist candles
The Midwest Glow Approach
At Midwest Glow, we currently use 100% soy wax in our candles for its clean burn, great scent throw, and sustainable production. It allows us to deliver high-quality, beautifully scented candles that are better for your space and safe for your family.
Want to see the difference for yourself? Try one of our best-sellers like:
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Clean and Serene – A naturally calming scent perfect for soy wax
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Ethereal Bloom – A spring time favorite blended with relaxing Yuzu.
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Black Tie Affair – Our seductive luxury scent, and current best seller.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer in the beeswax vs. soy wax debate — both are natural, cleaner-burning alternatives to paraffin. Your ideal wax depends on your lifestyle, fragrance preferences, and how you use candles in your home.
Whatever you choose, choosing clean ingredients is always a step toward a cozier, healthier space.
Looking for Your Next Favorite Candle?
Explore our full soy wax candle collection, hand-poured in small batches to light up your space — naturally.
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