What Needs to be Included on Your Candle Label?

The visual appeal of your product can make or break how well it will sell once it hits the shelves. However, so can the information on the product label itself. Even if you already have one of the most stand-out custom label designs that is almost as appealing as the scent itself – if that label does not include the correct safety information – it could become a hazard that does not comply with industry standards.Before you dive headfirst into the creative side of label-making, here are the logistics you'll need to be aware of so your candle label is compliant with guidelines, meets relevant industry standards, and holds fast to your product.

The Fair Packaging and Labeling Act

The first set of guidelines to be aware of when creating your candle label is those outlined in the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA).  The FPLA guidelines are detailed legal requirements for your candle's front-facing labels. A checklist for the three basic requirements includes:

• A statement identifying the commodity
• The name and location of the company, manufacturer, packer, or distributor
• The net weight (such as ounces or grams of the product included)

For round containers, this information should be on a label covering 40% of the surface of the container. On rectangular candle containers, this label needs to cover one full side. The label must be placed directly on the container, the packaging, or the physical candle. Your candle label must also include some essential information to comply with the FPLA.

Statement of Identity 

Just as the name suggests, the statement of identity should include what the product is. In this case, it would be the type of candle it is. That means you'll need to identify it as a candle, wax melt, or similar product. 

While it is not required, it can also be helpful to include the scent and the type of wax – such as soy and beeswax to coconut – being used.  This will improve customer trust by proving the business to be transparent and allowing the customer more information on the product they are buying. 

The Company's Name, Contact Information, and Logo 

Although it may seem like it should go without saying, the FPLA states that the name and place of your business need to be included on your candle label too, such as “Firelight Candles – Denver, Colorado.” This is also the part where your company logo would go. Additionally, this is also the section where your company's contact information will go. It may be mandatory, but this information is valuable for your customers and can help build trust.

The Net Weight 

Lastly, you will have to make sure to include the weight of your product. This should be in standard and metric measurements, such as grams or ounces. The number should represent the entire candle weight, including the wick, but not the container. 

Additionally, this labeling requirement is more particular than the others. The are minimum font requirements depending on how large your label is, including: 

• If the label is 5 square inches or smaller, the minimum font height is 1/16 inch 
• Labels 5 to 25 square inches have a ⅛ inch minimum 
• Anything 25 to 100 should be no smaller than 3/16 inch

Some FPLA guidelines, like address or weight, have notable exceptions and details that could apply to you. It would be best to read through these guidelines before making large-scale candle labeling decisions to save yourself the headache and expense of missing something minor.

The National Candle Association

As mentioned above, some things are not required to go on your candle labels. However, those things may gain more trust and attention from potential buyers. The National Candle Association, for example, has developed its own set of voluntary guidelines for labeling candles. The information they suggest is much more specific to candles, the biggest being fire safety labeling. This is not technically required by law, but it is considered an industry standard, so you'll want to follow suit. 

There are a few main things you will want to include on your fire safety label. A checklist for this these include:

• Adding Safety Statements
• Including Instructions
• Adding Additional Safety Information

Safety Statements 

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 8,200 home fires are started by candles every year. Additionally, studies have found that 85% of those incidents could have been avoided if the candle had never been left unattended, the candle had not burnt near flammable objects, and the candle had been kept out of reach of children or pets. 

For this reason, the NCA suggests there are three main statements you'll want to have somewhere on the label: 

• "Burn within sight" 
• "Keep away from flammables" 
• "Keep away from children and pets" 

You can incorporate these as simple statements, use approved graphics from the NCA, or a combination of the two.

Instructions and Other Safety Information 

Instructions and other safety information are also important to include. This includes any additional information to ensure proper use, such as when to trim the wick, and is highly recommended. 

This information is often included on a label separate from the main label on the candle, such as at the bottom of the candle or candle container. This will allow for less clutter on the main design, and if the customer decides to remove the main label, it will also make it easier for them to refer back to it.

Options for Customization

While there is a lot of information that may need to be included on your candle label, do not be discouraged. There are still almost limitless options for how that information is displayed. This is where the creativity comes into play. You may want to design your own or choose from a free printable label template. Some tips for product label design include:

• Taking a Minimalistic Approach: A trending design type that has been coming up more frequently in minimalism. This is where simple designs with neutral color schemes are used to give off a clean and spacious look on the label. This is already a popular trend perfect for many luxury candle companies and makes the information included easier to read. 
• Use of Bold Colors: For a more stand-out approach, you could try using bold colors instead. These have also been on the rise in recent years and may draw some extra attention from customers as the label will stand out from the competitors. 
• Textures and Accents: Another unique idea for labeling your candles is using different textures and accents to stand out. This could be glossed, textured, linen, felt – or for a more unique approach – metallic accents. Each of these options will add an extra layer of visual appeal and will make the product appear to be of higher quality.
• Typography: Logos and typography are essential parts of any label. Whether going for a bold, fancy, or modern look, the typography you choose for a candle can make a huge difference. Additionally, this is an opportunity to help customers remember the brand. 

Creating Your Ideal Candle Label

If you're working on your candle labels and need extra guidance, check A Practical Guide to Choosing Labeling Equipment. This professional guide will help you pick the industry's finest equipment available, perfectly suited to meet your needs.  Get your copy of this completely free guide here!

FAQ

What Makes a Good Candle Label?

To maximize the success of your candle label, you will want to make sure to include all of the information required in the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. This includes a statement identifying the commodity, the name and location of the company, manufacturer, packer, or distributor, and the net weight of the product. Additionally, you will want to include information such as brand, scent, instructions for use, and any additional safety information that may be helpful to the buyer. 

Do You Need Special Labels for Candles?

You do not need a special label for the candle as long as it has all the information required by law included. The only additional factor to worry about when choosing your label is making sure that it is resistant to heat and can withstand extreme temperatures without peeling or burning off. 

What Type of Labeler Will I Need for My Candle?

When it comes to labeling your candle, there are a few different labeling options you may have. These include hand labeling, semi-automatic labeling, and automatic labeling. Your final choice may vary depending on the amount of products being made, desired speed, and budget. The best overall option is automatic labelers, as they are the fastest and most accurate.