What Is CLP and Why Is It Important for Candles and Home Fragrance?

candlecollectiveuk
Jul 29
3 min read

If you've ever picked up a beautifully scented candle, wax melt, or diffuser and noticed a small label full of symbols and text, you might’ve wondered what on earth does it all mean, why is it there?: The answer is that it is a CLP label, a very small but important part of home fragrance products. Now I hear you ask “What is CLP, and do I really need to read it?”

The answer is: yes, and here’s why.

At Candle Collective UK, I believe in making home fragrance fun, safe, and accessible. That’s why all our vegan, cruelty-free candles and diffusers include fully compliant CLP labels. In this post, I'll be breaking down everything you need to know about CLP in plain English, no chemistry degree required!

What Does CLP Stand For?

CLP stands for Classification, Labelling and Packaging, a regulation that ensures customers know what’s inside a product and how to use it safely. It’s a legal requirement across the UK and EU for any product containing hazardous substances, including essential and fragrance oils used in candles, wax melts, and reed diffusers.

Even the loveliest floral scent or juiciest tropical blend might contain allergens or irritants in concentrated form. The CLP label is there to inform you, and protect you.

Why Is CLP Important For Candles and Wax Melts?

When it comes to home fragrance, safety matters just as much as scent. CLP labels help you, the consumer to:

Identify any allergens in the fragrance and essential oils used
Highlight any hazards, like flammable ingredients
Give clear safety instructions, like “Keep away from pets” or “Avoid contact with skin”
Include emergency advice, such as what to do if the product is accidentally ingested or causes irritation

Think of CLP labels as your candle’s safety card, like the one on an airplane, but more fragrant!

What Information is on a CLP Label?

A CLP label on your candle or diffuser will typically include:

The product name or scent
Hazard pictograms, such as the exclamation mark for irritants
Signal words like “Warning” or “Danger”
Hazard statements, e.g. “May cause an allergic skin reaction”
Precautionary statements, e.g. “Keep out of reach of children”
Contact details of the supplier, in case of emergency

All this information is laid out clearly, often on a label at the base of your candle or packaging. And while it might not be the prettiest part of your product, it’s definitely one of the most important.

Carol, founder of Candle Collective UK in the candle making studio applying CLP labels to finished poured candles.

Why Some Candles Need CLP Labels (and Some Don’t)

Not every candle or wax melt needs a CLP label. It depends on the concentration of fragrance oil or essential oil oils used and the specific chemicals within it. However, at Candle Collective UK, I include CLP labels on all my fragranced products, because I believe in full transparency and customer care.

Even our most delicate blends, like Champagne & Strawberries or Fluffy Towels, are labelled in accordance with the UK CLP regulations.

Is CLP a Sign of a Trusted Candle Brand?

Absolutely. Brands that take the time to label their products correctly are showing that they prioritise:

Customer safety
Legal compliance
Ingredient/Hazard transparency
Long-term product trust

Unfortunately, some small businesses or handmade candle makers may not realise CLP compliance is a legal requirement. If a product contains fragrance oils or essential oils but has no CLP label, that’s a massive red flag.

At Candle Collective UK, I'm proud to say that every single candle, melt, and diffuser I make is fully CLP compliant, because your safety and trust mean everything to me.

In a nutshell — CLP Labels Are There Because I Care!

To sum it up:

CLP stands for Classification, Labelling and Packaging
It’s legally required for many home fragrance products in the UK
It helps you use your candle, wax melt or diffuser safely and confidently
At Candle Collective UK, I follow CLP guidelines so you can have confidence

So next time you spot a little label on the base of your candle or diffuser bottle, give it a quick glance. It’s not just there for show, it’s there to protect you, your home, and your loved ones (including curious pups like my Maverick 🐾).

Smell good. Feel safe. Stay fabulous.

Love, Carol x

Founder, Candle Collective UK