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CPSC general useUnited StatesCandles

Are lead wick candles banned in the U.S.?

Updated

Short answer

Yes, since October 15, 2003.

16 CFR 1500.17(a)(13) bans candles made with metal-cored wicks whose metal core contains more than 0.06% lead by weight, for candles manufactured or imported on or after October 15, 2003. Metal-cored wicks themselves are banned on the same terms. Compliant candles with metal-cored wicks must have their shipping cartons labeled "Conforms to 16 CFR 1500.17(a)(13)". The ban applies to general use candles, and a candle subject to it needs a General Certificate of Conformity (GCC).

What changes the answer

  • Wick type. The ban is about metal cores, often zinc or tin, used to keep wicks upright. Cotton, paper and wood wicks without a metal core are outside 1500.17(a)(13).
  • Carton label. The "Conforms to" statement goes on each outer container or wrapper in which the candles are shipped, including to the retail outlet. The display box the consumer sees does not need it unless it is also the only shipping container.
  • Children's products. CPSC's children's product rule says candles are among products traditionally kept away from children and are not subject to the CPSIA lead limits, tracking label and third-party testing provisions (16 CFR 1200.2(b)(2)). A novelty candle shaped like a toy can raise that question again.
  • Other rules. There is no other mandatory federal candle standard. ASTM F2058 and related standards cover fire safety labeling as voluntary standards, and many retailers ask for them.

What to do

  1. Ask the wick supplier for the core metal and a lead test of the core, and record it per wick lot.
  2. If you use metal-cored wicks, test the core lead content and keep the result. Mark each shipping carton "Conforms to 16 CFR 1500.17(a)(13)".
  3. Issue a GCC citing 16 CFR 1500.17(a)(13), based on that test or a reasonable testing program, and eFile its data with the entry as required since July 8, 2026.
  4. If your wicks have no metal core, keep the supplier's specification on file. That is your evidence the ban does not apply.
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Frequently asked questions

Do candles with cotton wicks need a GCC?
The lead wick ban covers candles made with metal-cored wicks. A candle with a cotton or wood wick and no metal core is not subject to that ban, and no other CPSC rule generally applies, so no GCC is required for it. Keep evidence of the wick construction.
Is zinc core wick allowed?
Yes, if the metal core contains no more than 0.06% lead by weight and the shipping cartons carry the conformance label.
Are candles children's products?
Generally no. 16 CFR 1200.2(b)(2) names candles among products that the Commission has traditionally warned adults to keep away from children.

Sources

  1. 16 CFR 1500.17, Banned hazardous substances, including lead-cored candle wicks, eCFR, National Archives
  2. 16 CFR 1200.2, Definition of children's product, eCFR, National Archives
  3. Certificates of Compliance final rule (eFiling), published January 8, 2025, Federal Register

This is general information drawn from the official sources linked above. It is not legal advice. Rules change and often turn on the facts of your product, so confirm your test plan with an accredited lab and your obligations with qualified counsel before you import or sell.