Frequently Asked Questions | Smelty Handmade Candles Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Smelty’s handmade soy candles, wax melts, soaps, and body care products made in Sydney.
About Our Products
What ingredients do you use in your candles?
We use 100% natural soy wax, cotton wicks (no lead or zinc), and phthalate-free fragrance oils. Our Everyday Collection contains no dyes or synthetic additives.
Are Smelty candles vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. All our products are 100% vegan with no animal-derived ingredients and no animal testing.
Are Smelty candles safe for pets?
Our soy candles produce minimal soot and use phthalate-free oils, making them safer than paraffin in pet-friendly homes. Burn in well-ventilated spaces. If your pet has respiratory sensitivities, consider our electric wax warmers as a flameless alternative.
What is soy wax and why is it better than paraffin?
Soy wax is plant-based and renewable. It burns cleaner with less soot than paraffin, lasts longer, releases fragrance more evenly, and is biodegradable.
Are the fragrances natural or synthetic?
We use a mix of natural essential oils and high-quality, phthalate-free fragrance oils specifically selected for safe use in candles and body products.
Burn Times & Candle Care
How long do Smelty candles burn?
60g ≈ 15–20 hours • 170g ≈ 40–50 hours • 270g ≈ 60–70 hours • 420g ≈ 80–90 hours. See our full guide: how to choose the right candle size for your room.
How do I get the best burn?
Trim the wick to 5mm before each light. On the first burn, let the wax melt all the way to the edges (2–3 hours) to prevent tunnelling. Burn for no more than 3–4 hours per session. Read the full guide: how to burn your candle correctly.
Can I recycle the candle jars?
Yes. Our amber glass jars are fully reusable. Clean out remaining wax with hot water and repurpose as storage, a vase, or a planter.
Ordering & Shipping
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes — flat rate $15 shipping Australia-wide, free on orders over $100. Orders typically dispatch within 2–3 business days via Australia Post.
Where can I buy Smelty in person in Sydney?
Visit our Castle Cove studio at 12D Denawen Avenue, open Wednesday–Friday 10am–6pm and Saturday 10am–4pm. We also appear at Sydney markets most Sundays — see our Events & Markets page for the current schedule.
Custom Orders & Workshops
Can I get a custom or bespoke candle made?
Yes. We offer a full bespoke custom candle service for weddings, corporate events, birthdays and gifts. Choose your scent, label design and packaging.
Do you run candle making workshops?
Yes! Smelty workshops are held in Sydney. You’ll pour your own soy candles, choose your scents and take home your creation.