FAQs
Q: What is your shipping policy?
A: All orders will ship within 5 to 7 business days. Estimated arrival will show up at check out.
Q: What is your return and exchange policy?
A: At Rambling Caravan, we do not accept returns or exchanges for unsold products or overstock, unless the case is damaged upon arrival. If you receive damaged product(s), please notify us immediately and provide photographs as evidence. You can contact us at sales@ramblingcaravan.com.
Q: Why is it important to trim the wicks?
A: Trimming the wicks is crucial for optimal candle performance. By keeping the wicks trimmed, you prevent black soot and ensure a longer burn time for your candle.
When wicks are not properly trimmed, they can become too long and fail to draw the wax up to the top. This causes the wick itself to burn, resulting in the production of soot. Even with 100% cotton wicks and soy-based wax, untrimmed wicks can lead to soot formation.
Q: How should I trim the wick and how often?
A: It is recommended to trim the wick every four hours of burn time. To trim the wick, first extinguish the flame and allow the candle to cool to room temperature. Then, trim the wick to approximately 1/8 inch before relighting. Using a wick trimmer makes this task easier and ensures a clean cut that properly maintains the wick. Align the bottom of the trimmer with the surface of the candle.
Q: How can I maximize the burn time of my Rambling Caravan Candles?
A: For optimal burn time, always allow soy candles to burn long enough for the wax to melt across the entire container before extinguishing the flame. This prevents the formation of a tunnel in the wax, which can shorten the candle's lifespan.
Q: Can I use a candle warmer with your candles?
A: Yes, you can use electric candle warmers with our candles. However, please adhere to all safety instructions provided by Rambling Caravan and the candle warmer manufacturer. Although candle warmers do not involve flames, it's important to be cautious as hot wax can still cause burns.
Q: What are the differences between soy candles and paraffin wax candles?
A: Paraffin Wax:
- Discovered in 1850
- Derived from the components of decayed animal and plant material
- Made by extracting the waxy substance from crude oil
- Most commonly used wax in candle making
- Easy to use
- Non-toxic, colorless, and burns cleanly
- Has a well-defined large crystal structure and a melting point typically between 120-160°F
- Tends to be hard and brittle
Soy Wax:
- Discovered in 1991 as an alternative to paraffin wax
- Natural, renewable, non-toxic, and biodegradable
- Hydrogenated form of soybean oil
- Available in flake form and appears off-white
- Has a lower melting point compared to paraffin wax
- Commercial soy wax blends are usually softer and can melt in warm weather
- Burns longer and at a cooler temperature than paraffin wax
Coconut Wax:
- Relatively new to the candle market
- Considered the cleanest burning and most sustainable wax option
- Believed to be the healthiest choice for both the environment and our bodies
Q: What is Phthalate? Are your candles free from it?
A: Phthalates, or phthalate esters, are esters of Phthalic acid used to dissolve raw materials in fragrance oil production. While they have been used for many years in various products, concerns have been raised about their potential health effects at high levels. We prioritize your safety and only use Phthalate-free fragrance oils in our candles.
Q: How can I determine if my candle is soy?
A: Paraffin candles tend to have a more translucent and shiny appearance, while soy candles may exhibit wet spots on the sides of the container and appear creamier in color.
Q: What fragrances or scents do you use in your candles?
A: Our founder, Susan, is a trained perfumer with a passion for fragrance creation. With her expertise in blending top notes, middle notes, and base notes, our scents are ever-changing and curated at the discretion of the perfumer. We take great joy in providing a variety of delightful aromas, keeping your senses engaged while browsing our candles.
Q: Why was my order canceled?
A: Although this is a rare occurrence, we may occasionally cancel orders if there is suspicion of fraud. Rambling Caravan reserves the right to cancel any order for security purposes.
Q: Can I customize the candle labels?
A: We are happy to offer customization of candles for orders of 24 or more. The design fee for the label changes are worked into the pricing of the candles. You can customize the label color with the label options we have. Our logo usually stays on the label. Turn around time is 7-10 days after design has been approved. To inquire, please fill out our contact form.
Are the scent options different for your various candles?
All scents options are the same for every candle. Clear and amber vessel options are available for most candles.