Soy candles last about 50% longer than candles made of paraffin, the ingredient found in most candles. They also burn slower and cooler (distributing fragrance better), are non-toxic, less likely to trigger allergies, clean up with soap and water, and produce very little soot. These factors make Soy Candles more animal and child-friendly than traditional candles. Conversely, paraffin wax is made from petroleum and produces both carcinogens and soot when burned.