Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions about our candles, ingredients, care, and orders.


About Our Candles

What makes Olympia candles different?

Every Olympia candle is hand-poured in small batches in Olympia, Washington using clean, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. We use proprietary plant-based wax blends, phthalate-free and IFRA-certified fragrance oils from trusted U.S. suppliers, and high-quality cotton wicks.

Our focus goes beyond scent alone. These are candles made to support calm, comfort, and a steadier feeling in everyday life.

What’s the difference between the Classic and Premium Collections?

Classic Collection candles feature familiar, comforting scents designed for everyday use.

Premium Collection candles offer deeper, more layered scent profiles designed for slower, more immersive moments.

What is the Monthly Immersion Box?

The Monthly Immersion Box is a limited subscription experience (coming soon) centered on seasonal and emotional themes. Each box may include a custom candle, wax melts, tea, reflections, playlists, and other intentional elements.

Monthly Immersion candles are exclusive to each box.


Ingredients

Are your candles clean and non-toxic?

We use clean, high-quality ingredients and avoid common additives used to cut corners or force performance.

  • No paraffin or petroleum-based waxes
  • No phthalates
  • No artificial dyes or colorants
  • No parabens
  • No vybar, stearic acid, polymer resins, or similar burn modifiers
  • No fillers used to bulk up wax or mask formulation issues
What kind of wax do you use?

We use two fully vegan, plant-based wax options.

Soy blend — stronger, more noticeable scent throw. Formulated with organic, vegan, plant-based additives to support performance and consistency.

Coconut blend — smooth, creamy, and even-burning with a softer scent presence that stays calm and close.

Why does the wax sometimes look uneven or cloudy?

Natural waxes don’t behave the same way as paraffin. Because we don’t use stabilizers, dyes, or cosmetic fillers, you may notice natural variations.

This can include slight frosting, a cloudy or marbled appearance, subtle texture changes, or small surface shifts as temperatures change. These are normal characteristics of plant-based wax and don’t affect how the candle burns or smells.

Why does my candle sometimes sweat or have oil on the surface?

Natural wax can release fragrance oil in warmer conditions or during temperature changes. This is normal and doesn’t affect performance. If needed, gently blot the surface before lighting.

Are your candles vegan?

Yes. Both our soy and coconut wax blends are fully vegan.


Burn & Performance

Why does my candle burn differently each time?

Natural wax, room temperature, airflow, wick length, and burn time can all affect how a candle behaves. Small variations are normal and don’t indicate a problem.

Why does the melt pool look very liquid?

Soy and coconut wax melt at lower temperatures than paraffin. A full, glossy melt pool is normal and helps promote even burning and consistent scent release.


Use & Care

How long should I burn my candle?

Burn for 2–4 hours at a time. On the first burn, allow the melt pool to reach the edges of the jar (usually 2–3 hours) to help prevent tunneling.


Scent Sensitivity & Wellness

Are your candles suitable for scent-sensitive homes?

Our fragrances are phthalate-free and IFRA-certified, and our blends are designed to feel balanced rather than overpowering. If you’re sensitive to scent, we recommend starting with the coconut blend or burning for shorter periods.

Do your candles treat anxiety or stress?

Our candles aren’t medical products and don’t diagnose or treat any condition. They’re designed to support comfort, calm, and everyday rituals.


Orders & Shipping

Where do you ship from?

All orders ship from Olympia, Washington.

What if my candle arrives with cosmetic changes?

Because we use natural wax and ship year-round, minor surface changes can occur during transit. These don’t affect how the candle burns or smells.


Contact

How can I contact you?

Email contact@olympiacandles.com or use the Contact page.