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Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about candles and their answers:
How are candles made?
While modern candle-making processes vary, 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.
What is the best way to store candles?
Candles should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place and, for tapers, in a
flat position to prevent warping. When stored properly, candles can be
enjoyed for years and play an important role in traditions.
Does the industry have standards for candles?
Domestic candle manufacturers have a long tradition of making high
quality, long-lasting and safe candles. National Candle Association
members – manufacturers and suppliers – are working with the American
Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to implement voluntary
standards for candles. Both Neo-Image Candlelight and North Americant
Candle are proud members of the National Candle Association.
Are candles safe to use?
Candles are safe when burned properly and responsibly, and according to
manufacturers’ directions. When burning candles, consumers should always
follow these simple, common sense steps:
- never leave a candle unattended
- keep candles out of the reach of children and pets
- trim wicks prior to each use and keep trimmed
- keep candles away from drafts, vents and flammable objects
- extinguish a candle that smokes (check instructions before re-lighting)
- extinguish candle when ½" of wax remains in a container
- use only candle holders that have been manufactured for use with candles
- keep matches and other debris out of the candle
- extinguish the flame if it burns too close to the container or holder
- do not move a glass container when the wax is liquid
What are the typical ingredients in a candle?
A candle consists primarily of wax and a wick. Many candles also contain
dyes or pigments for color and fragrances for scent as well as other
minor ingredients.
Are candle wicks made of lead?
The majority of wicks manufactured today in the U.S. are made of 100
percent cotton – with no metal core. Those few wicks with metal are
typically zinc-core wicks. All of these wicks are safe.
Even though the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
determined in 1974 that lead-core wicks do not present a health hazard,
the National Candle Association’s members voluntarily agreed to stop
using lead wicks. Companies belonging to the National Candle Association
make about 95 percent of the candles manufactured in the United States
today.
It is possible that a small percentage of imported candles on the market
today contain lead-core wicks. However, the National Candle Association
and the Consumer Product Safety Commission have taken strong action to
remove candles with lead-core wicks from store shelves. This will help
ensure that all candles on the market today use safe wicks.
If a consumer is still worried, how can he or she tell whether a candle has a lead-core wick?
A consumer can determine if a candle has a lead-core wick by using this
simple test: Rub a piece of paper on the tip of an unused metal wick. A
lead-core wick will leave a gray pencil-like mark, while zinc or tin
will not.
It is important for consumers to know that wicks made with cotton, paper, zinc, or non-metallic materials are safe.
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Is it safe to burn candles in a house with children?
Safety, including issues such as children’s health, is a top priority
for National Candle Association members. That is why our organization
adopted a voluntary ban on lead wicks and supports the removal of
candles with lead wicks from store shelves.
What is soot?
Soot is a natural by-product of incomplete combustion and is comprised
primarily of carbon particles. Soot can be caused by fireplaces, stoves,
furnaces or even from cooking. If candle wicks are kept trimmed and
there is proper ventilation with no drafts, there should be no
incomplete combustion and, therefore, no sooting from candles.
In any house, there are literally millions of airborne particles that
can adhere to surfaces. These particles include a wide variety of
naturally-occurring substances such as dirt, dust and pollen. If windows
are open, particles may come from car or truck exhaust, barbecues and
burning leaves. Due to natural airflow, these particles tend to adhere
to ceilings, walls and window treatments. Because of static electricity,
they also tend to collect on or near electrical appliances, TV or
computer screens.
Do scented candles produce more soot or smoke than non-scented candles?
Not necessarily. While unscented wax may tend to burn more efficiently
in general, it is the size of the wick and flame that makes the most
difference, not the fragrance. Candles produced using appropriate raw
materials should burn cleanly if used properly.
What kind of quality control testing do candle manufacturers perform?
Each NCA member company has its own quality control procedures. Most
member companies perform methodical testing of their products to ensure
optimum performance.
Do burning candles cause air pollution?
When candles are burned properly, they pose no known health risk.
What kind of label information is required to be placed on candles?
No safety information is required on candle labeling. However, most
candle manufacturers voluntarily place safety and use instructions on
their candles. The National Candle Association is working with the
American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) to create voluntary
labeling standards for the industry.
Courtesy of The National Candle Association | | |
