At Witchy Philly Candle Co., we're obsessed with cozy—but we never compromise on safety. So let's talk about something that may look cute, but is a fire risk wrapped in dried petals: botanicals on top of candles.

The Fire Hazard Hiding in Plain Sight

You've probably seen them on social media: candles topped with dried flowers, herbs, or glitter, arranged like a mini bouquet. But when those materials come into contact with flame—or even with the heat from a candle's melt pool—they can ignite, spark, or flare unexpectedly.

According to the National Candle Association (NCA), decorative items like botanicals are explicitly considered a fire hazard and not recommended for use in candles. In a controlled review of botanical-topped candles, NCA found that the addition of dried materials to the surface of candles created higher flames, uneven burning, and in some cases, open combustion and flame “leap.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) also reports that candle fires cause approximately 7,610 residential fires, 81 deaths, and 677 injuries annually. While the CPSC doesn't break this data down by decorative elements, fire departments and safety experts note that “foreign objects in candles” (including botanicals) significantly increase the risk of flash fires.

The Insurance Problem Nobody Talks About

If you're buying from a home-based business or indie seller and that candle causes a fire, are they insured?

The harsh truth? Many small or unregulated sellers don't carry product liability insurance—and worse, most insurers will not cover makers who include dried botanicals or other flammable decorations on the surface of their candles. Why? Because it's a known and preventable hazard.

Candle liability policies generally exclude coverage for “known unsafe design choices,” and insurers have increasingly flagged florals and flammable decorations as one of them. If your home is damaged by one of these candles and the seller isn't insured—or their insurance is voided due to their candle design—you’re likely stuck footing the bill. That includes fire, smoke, and soot damage, which can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $35,000 depending on the severity, per data from insurance claims across North America.

How to Spot a Safe Candle Maker

If a candle is topped with loose flowers, whole herbs, or glitter that isn't biodegradable—it's probably not insured, not tested, and not worth the risk. Safe candles are:

✅ Clean on top (no dried materials)
✅ Made with safety-tested wicks and wax
✅ From makers who are transparent about their ingredients and practices
✅ Insured (yes, we are!)

We believe in magical, intentional candles—but we believe in keeping your home safe even more.

So at Witchy Philly Candle Co., our candles are free from flammable toppings. We rely on the power of scent and ethically sourced crystals to evoke intention and energy—without compromising safety.

Because cozy vibes should never come with a fire extinguisher.

In love & light ✨