Welcome back, Shackers! At Candle Shack, we're not just about creating beautiful candles; we're also passionate about ensuring your candle-burning experience is safe and enjoyable. Today, let's talk about the world of candle safety and those tiny but crucial candle safety labels that need to be put on your creations.
Why Should You Care About Candle Safety Labels?
In addition to giving your customers instructions about how to use your products safely it is also a legal requirement that any product placed onto the market in the UK to be safe and labelled correctly.
Did you know that in 2022 there were over 900 house fires caused by candles in the UK? That's right – that cosy flicker can turn into a blazing disaster in seconds. Our mission is to keep your homes warm and bright without the risk of turning them into an unintentional bonfire.
Whats with the safety labels?
Candle safety labels are your go-to source for understanding how to use and care for your candles properly.
But what exactly should be on these labels, and how do you use them to sprinkle some safety on your handmade candle creations? Fear not, dear candle makers – we've got the lowdown to ensure your candles are shining bright and safe.
Decoding the pictograms
According to the UK and EU EN15494 Product Safety label standards, you are required to have a number of pictograms on your candles to instruct the customer in the safe use of the product and to warn of potential hazards relating to its misuse.
This is different to CLP regulations which will be covered elsewhere.
The importance of safety graphics
Ever wondered about the candle images on your safety label? They're not just for show – they visually reinforce the safety guidelines. Think of them as a friendly reminder of the do's and don'ts in the world of candle-burning.
Warning triangle
This triangle gives a visual cue to show that there is a potential hazard with the product.
This is not required if your CLP requires the GHS 07 (Harmful) pictogram as it is giving the same information.
NEVER LEAVE A BURNING CANDLE UNATTENDED
Going for a quick errand or leaving the room? Extinguish that flame – we don't want any unexpected pyrotechnics!
BURN CANDLES OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN AND PETS
Keep your candles on a high shelf or locked away when not in use. Wagging tails and flailing arms might just turn your candle into an accident waiting to happen!
DO NOT BURN THE CANDLE ON OR NEAR ANYTHING THAT CAN CATCH FIRE
Beds, curtains, carpets – keep your candles away from the flammable items in your home.
Other optional pictograms
There are a number of additional pictograms that you can add to your candles to give you better piece of mind and to give more instructions for the customer on how to use your products.
Some of these pictograms are compulsory for certain types of candles.
USE a heat resistant candle holder
Make sure that you burn your candles on a heat resistant surface.
This is a requirement for pillar candles but not for container candles.
MAKE SURE THE WICK IS TRIMMED TO 5-10MM BEFORE LIGHTING
If during your testing, you have found that your candle has a small amount of mushrooming when burning for a long time, this may be useful to add to give customers the best candle experience they can with your product. The length on the pictogram can be changed to suit your preferences.
Trim that wick to 5-10mm before every burn to avoid mushrooming and ensure a smooth, soot-free experience.
Keep candles a set distance apart
This pictogram instructs customers to keep their candles a set distance apart so that they burn evenly and safely.
The Final word
At Candle Shack, we're not just here to sell you candles –
we're here to ensure your candle journey is safe and delightful. If you ever
have questions or concerns about your candle safety labels or anything else
candle-related, reach out to us. Our team is ready to guide you through the warm and glowing world of candle crafting.
Remember, this advice is like a candle – it's here to illuminate, not dictate. Ultimately, it's your responsibility as a business owner to make sure your candle creations light up homes legally and safely. Happy candle making!
