Protect your candle brand with candle business insurance. Learn coverage types, costs, and tips to safeguard your handmade venture.
A few years ago, I used to swing a thermometer with a hand on my kitchen counter with wax splashes on my apron, and the smell of lavender and vanilla’s mixture in the air. My candle started as a hobby, which I did to rest after a long time. But with several pages less, it were not so long before they started asking for customized candles , and then their friends wanted them as well. The next thing I knew, I had a business name, an Etsy store and a growing welcome.
But here’s the turn in my story that I didn’t see: I had no idea I needed candle business insurance.
I thought, “This is just candles. How risky can it be?” Let’s say that I quickly learned that wax, vicks and fire make a risky trio , and if you are not covered, a melted moment can burn your entire business on the ground (literally and financially). Whether you’re just starting or planning long-term moves like how to eventually sell your business it’s essential to make sure you’re protected from day one.
Let’s dive deeply into why insurance means something, what kind of needs you need, and how to protect the light empire , how big or small you are right now.
Article Breakdown
What is Candle Business Insurance still?
In the core, candle business insurance there is a number of guidelines that protect your business from financial loss due to accidents, losses or cases. It’s not just a “light insurance” package with a bow at the top – this is a combination of coverage that fits your specific layout.
Whether you put soyovox in the Mason jar in the basement or run a full -scale candle studio with employees and wholesale orders, insurance is the insurance that prevents your passion from turning into legal and financial nightmares.
Why is insurance required for candles?
Let me paint a picture for you.
Imagine selling a group of cinnamon sugary candles in a local holiday market. A customer takes it home, lights it, leaves the room, and the boom -scandle causes a small fire that damages their kitchen. They blame the product and file requirements.
Whether it was really your fault or not, you look at the lawyer’s injury and stress that can keep you up at night (and not just because of your next product launch).
This is just a landscape. Others include:
- Allergic reaction to aromatic oils.
- Burner due to weeks or incorrect product errors.
- Property damage from its own candle equipment.
Floor – Line?
Even the most beautiful, well -made candles can be dangerous. And an accident can use you for everything – until you cover.
Who needs Candle Business Insurance?
If you ask, “Do I really need it if I just sell lights on Etsy?” – The answer is yes.
Who should consider the insured here:
- Home -based candle manufacturer
- Craft Fair and Market Sellers
- Etsy, Shopify or Amazon -Seller
- Boutique or gross supplier
- Light subscription boxers
- Customized/private label business
If you do $ 200/month or $ 20,000/month, it doesn’t matter. If the money changes hand, you have a business. And businesses require security.
Types Candle Business Insurance you need to know
Let’s divide it into regular English. Think of insurance as a candle – each layer provides protection and provides strength.
1. General Liability Insurance
This is your basis. It protects you if someone is damaged or their property is damaged because of your business.
Example: A customer knocks on the performance of your light in a market and breaks your wrist. This policy covers his medical bill.
2. Product Liability Insurance
This is important. It protects you if your lights are damaged after being sold.
Example: A candle blast due to deficient week. It burns or property damage, and customers’ prosecution.
Many marketplaces (eg etsy or faire) require this coverage – or recommend it.
3. Commercial Property Insurance
It protects the equipment, materials and finished stock from things like fire, theft or natural disasters.
Example: A flood stores all wax, oil and packaging in the basement.
4. Home-Based Business Insurance
If you work from home, assume that your homeowner’s insurance covers your lighting business – it’s usually not. You need an endorsement or home business rider.
Example: Your light that makes equipment causes an electric card and fire in your garage. The homeowner’s policy can refuse requirements without the support of the business.
5. Business Interruption Insurance
If your business is to stop due to a covered event (such as Fire), it helps to cover lost income.
Example: You cannot produce or send candles for a month after the fire. This coverage helps you stay.
6. Commercial Auto Insurance
If you do candles or drive in a vehicle used for business, individual car insurance does not cover an accident. You need a commercial policy.
How much does Candle Business Insurance cost?
Costs can be widely different:
- Your business size
- Your sales volume
- Whether you are home -based or a studio
- Your coverage limits
- Your location
But here you have some ballpark numbers to give you an idea:
Type of Insurance | Estimated Monthly Cost |
General Liability | $25 , $50 |
Product Liability | $30 , $70 |
Home-Based Business Endorsement | $10 , $30 |
Full Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) | $60 , $150+ |
In my early days, I paid around $38/month for a general liability + product liability combo. It was a small price for peace of mind, especially after I had a customer complain about a wax overflow damaging her antique table (thankfully no claim was filed, but my policy would’ve covered it).
Where can you get light insurance?
Not all insurance companies understand the risk of handmade goods, so it is important to choose a supplier that meets small businesses, craftsmen or e-commerce suppliers.
Here are some tried and true options for candle manufacturers:
- Hiscox- Great for home-based entrepreneurs. Simple online quotes.
- Next insurance flexible, monthly coverage and super user friendly.
- Ideal for thermal-on-demand or short-term coverage (craftsmanship, etc.)
- State farm – reliable and home + business policy can pack.
- FLIP (Food Liability Insurance Program) , Often used by soap, candle, and bath product sellers.
Pro Tip: Get quotes from multiple providers and read the exclusions carefully. Some policies exclude fire-related products, so be sure your policy covers open-flame products like candles.
How to choose the right insurance for your candle business
Not all guidelines are made the same. What to consider here:
- Coverage for candles/open flames
- Guidelines including product obligations
- In-Persen and coverage for sale online
- Right deductibles
- a supplier that understands small businesses
Ask yourself:
“If one of the worst conditions is tomorrow, my insurance will cover it-or will I be trapped and keep wax?”
General questions Lyselymaker asks about insurance
Question: Can I leave insurance if I sell any light in just a month?
You can – but you can play money games. Even small operations can be held responsible if something goes wrong.
Question: Does insurance need to be sold on Etsy?
Etsy does not make it mandatory, but they strongly recommend it. And if you ever want to sell in bulk or markets, it is often necessary.
Question: What is the difference between product responsibility and general responsibility?
- General liability: protects against injuries or property damage caused by your business activities.
- Product liability: protects against injuries or damage caused by your actual products.
You need both.
Key Takings:
- I’ll be honest, getting insurance wasn’t the most exciting part of building my candle brand. But it became one of the most important decisions I ever made.
- There was a moment when a bride emailed me, furious that my candle “ruined” her wedding tablecloth. My heart dropped into my stomach. She was threatening to go public on social media and “take it further.” I panicked.
- But I had coverage. I calmly gave her the info for my insurer, and they handled it like pros. Crisis averted. My business survived. And my peace of mind? Priceless.
Additional Resources:
- Insurance for Candle Makers , CandleScience: A detailed guide on the types of insurance every candle maker should consider, including product liability, property damage, and business interruption, along with tips on when to purchase.
- Candle Making & Wax Melt Insurance , Nikura: This guide breaks down the risks specific to candle making and what kind of insurance can protect against accidents, fire hazards, and legal claims from customers.