Soy vs. Paraffin: What a “Clean” Candle Really Means
What to look for on a candle label: the wax, the fragrance oils and the wick, and why we pour with soy and phthalate-free oils.
"Clean" shows up on a lot of candle labels. Here's what we mean by it, and what to look for when you shop.
The wax
Most mass-market candles are made with paraffin, a wax that comes from petroleum. Soy wax is made from soybeans, a renewable crop. Soy burns cleaner, with less soot, which is why every Simply Hope candle is poured with natural soy wax.
The fragrance oils
Fragrance is what you're really buying, so ask what's in it. Phthalates are chemicals some fragrance makers use to make a scent last, and many people prefer to avoid them. Every candle, melt and diffuser we make uses phthalate-free fragrance oils.
The wick
A good wick gives a calm, even flame. We use double cotton wicks in our 8 oz candles for a steady burn from the first light to the last.
How it's made
Small batches let us check every pour before it ships. Each candle is hand-poured in Leesburg, Georgia.
Burn it right
Even the best candle burns cleaner with a little care: trim the wick to 1/4" before each burn and let the first burn melt all the way to the edge. Our Candle Care Guide has the rest of the tips.
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