There’s something so comforting about lighting a candle. That soft flicker, the warm glow, and that gentle scent that fills the room, it’s honestly one of my favorite ways to relax after a long day. But after reading about the toxins in regular paraffin candles, I started digging into how to make soy candles with essential oils myself. It honestly made such a difference in my space and how I feel when I light a candle now.
Not only are soy candles better for the environment and your health, but they also make the perfect gift or even a cute little business idea (more on that in a bit 😊). So if you’ve ever been curious about how to make your own natural candles, this post is for you. I’ll walk you through what you need, where to buy your supplies, plus my favorite essential oil blends, especially ones that help with anxiety. Let’s do this together!
Why I Chose Soy Wax (And Why You Should Too)
Before getting into the step-by-step, I want to explain why I only use soy wax. Regular candles, especially those made with paraffin wax, release harmful chemicals like toluene and benzene when burned. These are known carcinogens, meaning they can be seriously harmful to your health over time.
Soy wax, on the other hand, is plant-based. It’s made from soybeans, burns cleaner, and doesn’t leave that black soot on your walls or in the air. Plus, it’s biodegradable and supports American farmers. I love knowing that I can enjoy the cozy vibes of a candle without worrying about what I’m breathing in.
I’m currently working on starting my own little candle business that’s all about natural ingredients, no paraffin, no artificial fragrances, just pure essential oils and clean-burning soy wax. I want people to enjoy their candles without worrying about toxins.
What You Need to Make Soy Candles with Essential Oils
Getting started with candle making is easier than you think. You don’t need a huge budget or fancy tools—just a few basics to begin.
Supplies List:
- Soy wax flakes – I like to use organic soy wax because it’s clean and easy to melt. (I buy mine from Amazon, just make sure it’s organic).
- Essential oils – I’ll share my favorite blends below.
- Wicks – Look for natural cotton wicks that are lead-free and designed for soy candles.
- Wick stickers or glue dots – To keep the wick in place at the bottom of your jar.
- Jars or containers – Mason jars, cute teacups, or recycled glass jars all work!
- A pouring pitcher – You can find inexpensive ones on Amazon, or use an old pot with a spout.
- A thermometer – Optional but helpful to make sure you add your oils at the right temp.
- Stirring sticks – Popsicle sticks or chopsticks do the trick.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Soy Candles with Essential Oils
Here’s the method I use every time. It’s simple, relaxing, and honestly kind of therapeutic.
1. Prep Your Jars
Clean and dry your jars. Stick your wick to the center bottom using a wick sticker or a bit of hot glue. Wrap the top of the wick around a chopstick and lay it across the jar to hold the wick upright.
2. Melt the Wax
Measure how much wax you’ll need (usually double the size of your jar in flakes), then melt it using a double boiler. If you don’t have one, just place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of boiling water. Stir occasionally.
3. Cool Slightly & Add Essential Oils
Once the wax is fully melted, let it cool slightly, around 130-140°F (54-60°C) is ideal. If it’s too hot, the scent will burn off. Add about 10-15 drops of essential oil per 8 oz. of wax (more if you like stronger scents). Stir well to mix.
4. Pour Into Jars
Slowly pour the wax into your jar, holding the wick straight. Don’t fill it all the way, leave about ½ inch from the top. Let it cool for at least 12-24 hours.
5. Trim the Wick
Once your candle is set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch. That’s it! You’re ready to enjoy your homemade soy candle!
My Favorite Essential Oil Blends for Anxiety & Calm
I started using essential oils for anxiety during a tough time in my life. Lighting one of these blends feels like a gentle exhale after a long day. Here are a few that I personally love:
🌿 Relax & Unwind
- Lavender (5 drops) – The queen of calm. Lavender is known for reducing stress and helping with sleep. It has that soft, floral scent that instantly makes you want to slow down.
- Chamomile (3 drops) – If you’ve ever had chamomile tea before bed, you know its calming powers. In candle form, it adds a delicate, almost apple-like warmth that pairs beautifully with lavender.
- Bergamot (2 drops) – This one brings a hint of citrus with a cozy twist. It’s uplifting without being overpowering, helping to ease tension and create a balanced, peaceful mood.
Best for: Evenings, winding down after work, or anytime you need a little mental exhale.
🍋 Citrus Calm
- Sweet Orange (4 drops) – Bright, cheerful, and mood-boosting. It smells just like peeling a fresh orange—instant sunshine in a bottle.
- Lemon (3 drops) – Clean and energizing. Lemon adds a crisp top note that clears your head and brings freshness into any space.
- Ylang Ylang (3 drops) – A sweet, floral scent that’s known for its calming effects. It adds a sensual softness to the sharpness of citrus, creating a well-rounded, feel-good aroma.
Best for: Morning routines, mid-day energy boosts, or lifting your spirits on cloudy days.
🌲 Grounding Forest
- Cedarwood (4 drops) – Earthy and rich, like walking through a quiet forest. Cedarwood has grounding properties that help you feel more centered and secure.
- Frankincense (3 drops) – Deep, resinous, and a little mysterious. Frankincense is often used in meditation because it promotes clarity and calm.
- Lavender (3 drops) – Ties the blend together with softness, helping balance the earthy notes with a light, floral whisper.
Best for: Meditation, journaling, or those days when your mind feels all over the place and you just need to breathe.
🌿 Minty Fresh Focus
- Peppermint (4 drops) – Crisp and refreshing. Peppermint instantly wakes up your senses and helps with concentration.
- Eucalyptus (3 drops) – Cooling and clean. It supports clear breathing and adds a spa-like feel to the blend.
- Rosemary (2 drops) – Herbaceous and a little peppery. Rosemary is great for mental clarity and memory support, it sharpens the overall vibe of the candle.
Best for: Working from home, studying, or when you need to clear mental fog and get things DONE.
These are just ideas, feel free to get creative and mix your own based on what makes you feel good.
Where to Buy Supplies
When I first got into candle making, finding all the right supplies felt a little overwhelming. But once I figured out what I needed, it got way easier. I personally get most of my supplies from Amazon because it’s quick, affordable, and has tons of options all in one place.
You can also check your local craft store or natural health shop if you prefer shopping in person, but Amazon is super convenient, especially if you’re just starting out and want everything delivered in one go.
Thinking About Starting Your Own Candle Business?
If making these candles brings you joy, you might be thinking, could I actually sell these? That’s exactly where I’m at right now.
Starting something new can feel scary, but also really exciting. If you’re dreaming of launching your own candle business like I am, know that you don’t have to have it all figured out from day one.
Start small, test different scent blends, and make it your own. People are looking for authentic, handmade products more than ever! You can sell your first few candles on Etsy, where people are already looking for handmade goods. Or try TikTok, a lot of small creators are going viral just by sharing behind-the-scenes candle-making videos. If you’re ready to really invest in your business, you could even build your own website and start creating a brand that’s completely your own.
Whatever path you choose, do it with love and intention. You’re not just selling candles, you’re sharing a little piece of peace, comfort, and natural goodness with someone else’s home.
And that’s a beautiful thing. 💛
I’m working on launching my own small candle business focused on natural ingredients and wellness. The world needs more clean products, and I believe we can make self-care simple, safe, and special—one candle at a time.
Final Thoughts: Making Candles Is Self-Care, Too
Learning how to make soy candles with essential oils has been such a peaceful, healing hobby for me, and I hope it can be that for you too. Whether you’re making them for your own home, as thoughtful gifts, or dreaming up a little business, you’re doing something creative, kind, and non-toxic. And that’s something to be proud of 💛
If you try any of the essential oil blends or have your own to share, drop a comment below, I’d love to hear from you!
– Fifi 💛
Simply Calm Mind Blog 
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