For many candle makers, the legal side of selling candles feels intimidating. Terms like insurance, CLP, and safety documentation can quickly turn excitement into anxiety.
The truth is that candle safety doesn’t need to be overwhelming but it does need to be taken seriously. This post breaks down the key legal considerations for selling candles in the UK in a clear, manageable way.
Why candle safety matters
Candles involve heat, flame, and fragrance. As a seller, you are responsible for ensuring your products are safe for customers to use when they follow your instructions. Proper safety practices protect not only your customers, but also your business.
They reduce risk, increase professionalism, and build trust with retailers and buyers. Ensure you properly wick test your candles and record all the information in a product information file.
Insurance: what you need and why
Product and public liability insurance is essential if you plan to sell candles. This covers you in the event that a product causes damage or injury. Many craft and small business insurers offer policies tailored specifically to candle makers. Insurance should be in place before you start selling, not after a problem arises.
Understanding CLP and labelling CLP
(Classification, Labelling and Packaging) regulations apply to scented candles. Labels must include hazard information based on the fragrance used, as well as safety advice for consumers. While CLP can feel technical at first, it follows a clear structure. Once you understand how labels are created and applied, it becomes a routine part of product setup rather than a constant worry. CLP information is provided by all fragrance houses, and often they provide templates for the safety label itself that’s easy to download.
Some of the most common issues include:
Selling without insurance
Incorrect or missing CLP labels
Incomplete safety instructions
Copying labels from other brands
These mistakes are usually caused by lack of information rather than negligence. Taking time to understand requirements early can prevent costly problems later.
What you can set up early
You don’t need everything perfect on day one, but you do need the basics:
Valid insurance
Correct labelling
Clear burn instructions
A simple system for compliance records
Building these foundations early makes growth far easier and less stressful. If you’d like step-by-step guidance, I host a monthly Zoom session covering candle safety, insurance, and labelling in more detail. I also offer a compliance guide for candle makers who want a clear reference to work from.
