F.A.Q.'s
How are candles made?
Although modern technology has introduced greater efficiencies and quality control in candle-making, most candles are made through the timeless process of placing a cotton wick into wax, which is then molded, dipped, extruded, pressed, rolled, drawn or filled into a desired shape and size.
Are candles made from petroleum-based products safe?
Validated scientific studies have shown that all major candle waxes exhibit the same basic burn behavior and produce virtually identical combustion byproducts, both in terms of composition and amount. To date, no peer-reviewed scientific study has ever collected or analyzed any emissions data on any candle wax, including petroleum-based paraffin, and proven them to be harmful to human health. In fact, paraffin is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in food, cosmetics, and medical applications.
Are scented candles safe?
Consumers can be confident that a well-made and properly burned candle, whether scented or unscented, will burn cleanly and safely. Although there are no known health hazards associated with the use of scented candles, unfounded concerns about the safety of man-made fragrances vs. “natural” fragrance materials and essential oils continue to pepper the popular media and Internet. The fragrances approved for candle usage – whether synthesized or “natural” – do not release toxic chemicals. Reputable candle manufacturers use only fragrances that are approved for burning in candles. They also carefully monitor the addition of fragrance to ensure that the candle will burn cleanly and properly.
What should I know about using candles safely?
Candles are safe when burned properly, responsibly and according to manufacturer directions. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that a burning candle is an open flame, and thus a potential fire hazard if not monitored carefully.
Is my candle biodegradable?
Probably studies have shown that beeswax, paraffin and vegetable-based waxes are biodegradable. The vast majority of candles today are made primarily from these waxes.
Are candles made with “natural” ingredients or essential oils safer?
A natural ingredient, as opposed to a manufactured or synthesized ingredient, is not necessarily any safer. In fact, scores of natural ingredients are known to be extremely toxic to humans in very small amounts. We are committed to manufacturing candles that use ingredients known to be safe and approved for use in candles, whether “natural” or synthesized.
I love scented candles. Why don’t candle manufacturers add a lot more fragrance?
There is a maximum amount of fragrance that can be added to a candle before it no longer burns cleanly or properly. There have been reports of some homemade and craft-fair candles containing too much fragrance, or fragrances not approved for use in candles. This can cause a candle to burn improperly or unsafely.
What causes a candle to smoke, and what can I do to correct it?
A well-made candle will create virtually no smoke when burning properly. Consumers often incorrectly believe their candles are sooting because of the wax type, fragrance, colorants or additives used in the candle’s formulation, but sooting is primarily due to flame and combustion disturbances. If the wick becomes too long, or an air current disturbs the flame’s teardrop shape, small amounts of unburned carbon particles (soot) will escape from the flame as a visible wisp of smoke. Any candle will soot if the flame is disturbed.
To avoid this, always trim the wick to ¼ inch before every use and be sure to place candles away from drafts, vents or air currents. If a candle continually flickers or smokes, it is not burning properly and should be extinguished. Allow the candle to cool, trim the wick, make sure the area is draft free, and then re-light.
How can I tell if I’m buying a quality candle?
Unless a candle has defects that are obvious to the eye, you probably can’t tell just by looking. That’s why we recommend that you purchase candles from a reputable manufacturer.
Why are candles so popular?
Candles are perhaps one of the most enjoyable and affordable luxury items available to everyone. They are beautiful and magical, infusing the home with color and fragrance. They can create a special warmth and ambiance to bring a special sense of calm and well-being.
What size candle do I need for my space?
One candle works great in bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and typically sized living/workspaces. Larger rooms or spaces with high ceilings or open floor plans may need multiple candles for the best fragrance permeation. You can have multiple candles of the same scent or mix and match them for your own unique blend.
Can your containers of container candles be reused?
Yes! Once there is about 1/4 inch of wax left, stop using the candle. Use caution and care when removing the remaining wax, wicks, and any labeling. Our suggestion is to gently scrape out the wax and wicks/wick stickers with a plastic utensil (discard all wax in the trash - never put wax down the drain or garbage disposal). Then place the container in hot soapy water to soften any residue and labels, and wash, rinse and dry. Note: we assume no liability for candle containers or subsequent results of reuse by the consumer, once purchased.
Do scented candles produce more soot than unscented candles?
The oils found in certain fragrances may slightly increase the small amount of soot produced by a candle, but wick length and flame disturbance are the primary factors that impact soot in a properly formulated candle.
Are certain types of candle waxes better than others?
No. All types of quality candle waxes have been shown to burn cleanly, safely and in the same manner.
What is the Benefit of an All-Cotton Wick?
You should always check if the wicks are made with 100% cotton because a lead wick may create toxic smoke that may be harmful to your health. This is why we use 100% all cotton wicks in our candles.