I love Soy Candles

I really love soy candles! I've always liked candles in theory but my allergies haven't. Soy candles have been much gentler on me than the traditional ones made from paraffin wax. Paraffin wax is made from oil by-products and often includes stearin mixed in.

So why use soy candles? Regular candles can give off small quantities of toxic fumes and chemicals, some of which are carcinogenic. Soy candles burn cleaner and will usually give off fewer fumes (but note when shopping what scents and additives have been added to your soy candles). Soy candles are also natural and biodegradable. They burn cleaner leaving less soot and ash residue in your home. Soy is a renewable energy resource that is part of our sustainable agriculture. Finally and maybe the best part is that it reduces our need for oil (with all its economic and international complications).

The only downside to soy candles is that they cost more than traditional candles. However, they also burn 30-50% longer, which nicely off-sets the cost. But shop around, I've been able to find candles cheaper locally than those offered by places like Amazon. Although Amazon does have soy tea lights which I haven't seen elsewhere.
25 Soy Tealights

Official Soy Candle web site - I thought the name was a bit over the top given how many individuals and companies are making soy candles. Turns out that it is the Iowa Soybean Association and a number of manufacturers. The most useful part of the site is the map to find who sells soy products. Just click on your state and scroll down the list. The site is designed a bit funny but the info is good.

SoyCandles.com - News about the 'industry' and provides information not only on the products available but how to make your own.

For a history of candles see Wikipedia.

See Wikipedias take on Soy candles.