Soy wax is a vegetable wax made from the oil of soybeans, the majority of which are grown right here in the U.S. Soybeans are both a sustainable and renewable resource.
Once the soybeans are harvested, they’re cleaned and cracked and the hulls are removed. Then, they’re rolled into flakes. After that, oil is then extracted from the flakes.
Then, the oil is hydrogenated, this converts the fatty acids in the oil from an unsaturated to saturated state, which is why the oil turns into a solid at room temperature. The bean husks are leftover from the process and are often used as animal feed.
Natural Soy Characteristics
Candle Color
You may notice a slight change in soy wax’s natural white color to the tint of the fragrance that is used.
You may notice some “frosting” and look a little dry around the edges and surface of the candle due to changes in room temperature.
This is just the soy wax trying to return to its natural state, it doesn’t affect the quality of your candle, it’s just one of the unique properties of pure soy wax.
You should always avoid storing your candles in direct sunlight and ultraviolet light, so it’s best to cover your candle with a lid and protect it from temperature changes.
This is why we don’t overstock our candles. It reduces the time between production and delivery.
Bubbles
Sometimes, you may see bubbles on the surface of the candle, this is just another natural characteristic of pure soy. Air becomes trapped during the pouring of the wax into its container.
Soy candles need to be kept in cooler temperatures. At temperatures above 85 degrees, you may notice the wax getting softer and oil will begin coming to the surface of your candle.
These are all physical characteristics of soy, and it’s a sign that your candle is made with 100% soy wax.
Tunneling
Now, let’s talk about “Tunneling”
Tunneling is when the wick burns straight down the center of the candle, forming a tunnel. As the wick burns further down into the candle, the flame begins to run out of oxygen, and it won’t stay lit.
But there is hope!
How to Fix Tunneling
For a new candle, you’ll want to let the candle burn for an hour for every inch of diameter. In other words, if your candle is 3 inches (7.62 cm) in diameter, you’ll want to allow it to burn for about 3 hours before you extinguish the flame. This helps the wax pool extend to the edge of the container each time.
Now, to fix a candle that’s forming a tunnel, wait till the wax cools a little. Next, take a spoon and gently remove excess wax down to the base of the wick. Removing the wax will create a new wax surface.
Now, wait till the wax completely cools, and then re-light the wick and continue using your candle. And, just like with a new candle, you’ll want to burn the candle for about an hour for each inch of diameter of the container.