Tunnel Candle vs. Traditional Candle – Which One to Choose and Why Soy Wax Matters
If you're interested in premium candles—handcrafted, made with natural ingredients—you've probably come across the term "tunnel candle ." How is it different from a regular candle? Why are more and more people choosing soy wax over paraffin wax? And does it really make a difference? In this article, we answer all these questions—without marketing jargon.
What is a tunnel candle?
A tunnel candle is a cylindrical candle in which the wick is placed inside, and the wax gradually melts from the center outward—creating a distinctive "tunnel" with a luminous glow visible through the wall. This shape gives the burning candle a unique appearance—like a lantern or lantern.
Soy, paraffin or palm wax - a comparison
Choosing wax is one of the most important decisions when purchasing a candle. Each type of wax has different properties—both in terms of scent and its impact on the environment and health.
Soy wax
- Of plant origin
- Slow burning, long burning time
- Clean, white smoke
- It carries the scent perfectly
- Easy to wash off with warm water
- GMO-free (certified)
Paraffin wax
- A by-product of crude oil
- Cheap to produce
- Strong smell but dirty smoke
- May contain benzene and toluene
- Burns faster
- Common in mass production
Palm wax
- Plant-based but controversial
- Deforestation of tropical forests
- Hard, good quality candle
- Difficult to source ethically
- Some certificates (RSPO)
- We avoid in our candles
Why are soy candles a healthier choice?
Paraffin wax can release chemicals into the air when burned, including products of incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons. Soy wax burns much cleaner—this is especially important in small, poorly ventilated spaces where candles are most often burned: bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms.
Soy candles are also fully vegan - they do not contain beeswax, which, although natural, is often excluded by people who follow a diet and lifestyle free from animal products.
Soy Tunnel Candle – Why Does This Combination Make Sense?
The tunnel candle and soy wax complement each other. Soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin, which means that a soy wax tunnel candle burns exceptionally evenly and smoothly—the wick doesn't "sink" too quickly, and the tunnel effect develops gradually and aesthetically.
Add to this natural fragrances – essential oils and fragrance compositions compliant with IFRA standards – and you get a product that looks beautiful, smells subtle, and is safe for household members and pets.
How to care for a tunnel candle?
A few simple rules that will extend the burning time and preserve the aesthetics of your candle:
- When burning for the first time, leave the candle burning for at least 2-3 hours to allow a uniform layer of "pool" to form around the wick.
- Trim the wick to approximately 5-7 mm before each lighting to prevent soot formation.
- Do not burn a candle for more than 4 hours at a time.
- Store away from direct sunlight to protect the color and scent of the wax.
0 comments