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.

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.

Candles should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place. When stored properly, candles can be enjoyed for years and play an important role in traditions.

Yes. Members of the National Candle Association have a long tradition of making high quality, long-lasting and safe candles. In addition, NCA works with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to develop voluntary standards for the candle industry. ASTM standards currently exist for the fire safety labeling of candles and the heat-resistance of glass candleholders. NCA continues to work with ASTM to develop additional standards for candles.

Candles are safe when burned properly, responsibly, and according to manufacturers’ directions. When burning candles, consumers should always follow these basic safety rules:

• Always keep a burning candle within sight.
• Never burn a candle on or near anything that can catch fire.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Read and follow all manufacturer instructions carefully.
• Trim the wick to 1/4 inch each time before burning.
• Always use an appropriate candleholder placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Keep burning candles away from drafts, vents and air currents.
• Extinguish a candle if it smokes, flickers repeatedly, or the flame becomes too high.
• Cool, trim wick, check for drafts, and re-light.
• Keep the wax pool free of wick trimmings, matches and debris at all times.
• Do not burn a candle for longer than the manufacturer recommends.
• Always burn candles in a well-ventilated room.
• Extinguish the flame if it comes too close to the holder or container. For a margin of safety, discontinue burning a candle when 2 inches of wax remains (1/2 inch if in a container).
• Never touch or move a votive or container candle when the wax is liquid.
• Extinguish pillar candles if the wax pool approaches the outer edge.
• Place lighted candles at least 3 inches apart from one another.

Currently there are no federal labeling requirements for candles, other than those required for consumer commodities under the Federal Trade Commission’s Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (manufacturer’s name, commodity weight, measurements, etc.). NCA members typically place safe-use instructions on their candles or the candle packaging. In fact, NCA spearheaded the drive for candle fire-safety labeling, working with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to create voluntary labeling standards for the industry.