Big Bear Candles FAQ
Answers to common questions about our candles, choosing a scent, candle care, shipping and more.
Our candles
Where is Big Bear Candles based?
Big Bear Candles is a small family business based in Chiefland, Florida. We hand-pour our candles in small batches. More about Big Bear
What wax and wicks do you use?
Our candles use a blend of soy and coconut wax, with cotton or wood wicks depending on the collection. Check the individual product page for the candle’s size and details.
How long do your candles burn?
Our collection burn-time estimates are Classic: 50+ hours; Signature: 40+ hours; Black Bear Edition: 70+ hours; and Polar Edition: 80+ hours. These are total burn-time estimates across multiple uses, not one continuous burn. Actual burn time varies with candle care and conditions. For Wood Collection and other formats, check the individual product page. Shop candle collections
How can I choose a scent online?
Start with fragrances you already enjoy, then compare the notes in each product description. Try the Scent Finder on our homepage for a shortlist, or read our scent guide for more help. Fragrance notes describe a scent’s character and are not a list of literal ingredients.
Why does my candle have frosting or spots against the glass?
Soy wax can develop small crystals called frosting, and temperature changes can cause wax to pull slightly away from the glass. These cosmetic changes do not necessarily affect how the candle burns or smells. If the vessel is cracked or damaged, do not use it; contact us.
Candle care
How should I care for my candle?
Always follow the warning label on your candle. Trim cotton wicks to about 1/4 inch before lighting. For a wood wick, let the candle cool fully and gently remove loose charred material. Keep the wax free of debris, use a stable heat-resistant surface, and keep candles away from drafts, children, pets and anything that can catch fire. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Read our candle care guide
How long should each burn last?
Follow the maximum burn time on your candle’s label. On the first burn, allow the melt pool to spread toward the sides when possible within that limit. Never keep burning just to force the wax to reach the edge. Stop using the candle when about 1/2 inch of wax remains, or sooner if the label says otherwise.
Shipping and returns
When will my order arrive?
Most orders arrive within 2–4 business days of ordering. We aim to dispatch orders the same day, but this is not guaranteed. Most orders ship by insured USPS Priority Mail with tracking; some ship by FedEx. Shipping and return policy
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. Our current shipping policy offers free shipping on orders over $75. Check the shipping total at checkout before placing your order.
Can I return a candle?
We accept unused candles in their original packaging within 30 days after delivery. Please contact us before returning anything. Buyers are responsible for return shipping. Sample products cannot be returned; contact us if a product is defective. Read the return policy
What if my order arrives damaged or is taking too long?
Email Support@BigBearCandles.com promptly so we can help. Do not handle broken glass or return a damaged or defective item before contacting us. We may need photos of damaged goods for a shipping insurance claim. Contact us
Subscriptions, gifts and wholesale
Do you offer candle subscriptions?
Yes. Eligible products offer monthly Subscribe & Save options, and our Candle of the Month subscription sends the featured scent each month. Check the product page for the current price, frequency and subscription terms before ordering. Candle of the Month renews monthly until canceled and can be canceled anytime. Explore Candle of the Month
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes. A Big Bear Candles eGift Card lets the recipient choose a scent they love. Visit our gift card page for available amounts.
Do you offer wholesale or bulk orders?
Yes. Wholesale purchasing is available through Faire, and qualifying bulk orders of Classic candles can receive an automatic discount on our website. The website minimum is both 24 candles and $250 per order. Florida sales tax applies; use Faire for tax-exempt purchasing. See our wholesale page for details.
How can I contact Big Bear Candles?
Email Support@BigBearCandles.com or use the contact form on our website. We are happy to help with candle questions and orders.