The History, Popularity, and Safety Tips for Yankee Candles

The History and Popularity of H H Candles

Scented candles have been used for centuries to bring pleasant aromas into homes. In recent decades, the h h candle company has become one of the most popular makers of scented candles in the world. With their trademark styles and fragrances, h h candles have earned a passionate following.

The Origins of H H Candle Company

The h h Candle Company was founded in 1969 by Michael Kittredge II. The name "h h" comes from Kittredge's nickname "Mike Kit." The company started by selling scented candles as Christmas gifts in the Kittredge family home in Massachusetts.

The handmade candles proved extremely popular as gifts. In the first year, the company made $6,000 in sales. Only a few years later in 1975, h h opened its flagship manufacturing facility in South Deerfield, Massachusetts to meet growing demand.

The Growth of the Brand

In the 1980s and 90s, h h experienced rapid growth through catalog and online sales. The company focused heavily on fragrance innovation and decorative jar designs.

Some of h h's most iconic candle scents debuted during this period like Lilac Blossoms, Sage & Citrus, and the perennial favorite Pumpkin Spice. The brand also expanded into body care, perfumes, and other home fragrance products.

Today, h h sells over 400 million candles per year and continues growing in popularity. The company offers several thousands fragrances and introduces over 100 new scents annually.

What Makes H H Candles So Popular

There are several key reasons why h h candles are beloved by so many consumers:

Signature Scents

H h is renowned for its proprietary scent blends. Fragrances like Clean Cotton, Peach Bellini, and Hot Cocoa & Cream have become signature h h smells. The scents are carefully crafted to smell pleasant and draw positive emotional responses.

High-Quality Ingredients

The wax, wicks, jars, and fragrances used in h h candles are high-quality. This ensures an even, long-lasting burn and vivid scents. Beeswax and essential oils are used in many varieties for a natural candle experience.

Attractive Jar Designs

In addition to scents, h h puts great emphasis on jar designs. Candles come in decorative glass jars with eye-catching styles. Popular jar collections include the farmhouse chic Barnwood Jars and elegant Faceted Glass Jars.

Effective Marketing

H h has built strong brand recognition through effective social media marketing and influencer partnerships. This sensory marketing engages fans, drives conversation, and attracts new customers.

Tips for Enjoying H H Candles

Here are some top tips for making the most of your h h candle experience:

Try Before You Buy

Smell candles in store before purchasing whenever possible. Candle scents can smell different on cold sniff versus burning. Testing ahead ensures you'll enjoy the actual scent.

Frequent Trim Wicks

Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before lighting and periodically as you burn. This prevents excess soot and encourages an even burn.

Use a Timer

Light candles for no more than 4 hours at once. Extinguish completely and allow cooling before relighting. Timers help prevent burnout and overheating.

Combine and Layer

For added fragrance intensity and complexity, combine complementary scents. Classic pairings include pine + cedarwood or vanilla + lavender. You can burn two candles or use other products like room sprays.

Safety First with Candles

While scented candles undeniably set the mood, it’s imperative to keep safety in mind. Follow these guidelines when burning candles:

Supervise Burning Candles

Never leave a hot candle unattended. Extinguish before exiting a room or going to sleep. Do not burn candles anywhere the cat or dog can access to prevent pet injuries.

Ask Others Before Lighting

Always ask permission before burning candles in shared spaces. Be mindful that candle smoke can aggravate certain medical conditions like asthma.

Use Nonflammable Holders

Place candle jars on tile, wood, metal or other heat-safe surfaces away from anything flammable. Glass and metal holders precautions are ideal.

Keep Out of Reach

Store candle collections securely away from pets and small children. If you own a curious cat, consider cat-proofing containers.

Discover Your New Favorite H H Scent

H H offers an incredible selection of old and new scents to explore. Here are some current bestselling fragrances to try on your next candle haul:

Fresh Fall Morning

Top notes: green apple, peach, berries

Middle notes: chrysanthemum, garden herbs

Base notes: cedarwood, musk, amber

Twinkling Nights

Top notes: red berries, mandarin

Middle notes: fir needles, sparkling cranberry

Base notes: vanilla bourbon, tonka bean

Sun Kissed Lilac

Top notes: juicy mandarin, lush greenery

Middle notes: lilac blossoms, muguet, cyclamen

Base notes: soft musk, blonde woods

With the amazing range of scented candles from h h, you're sure to find a new signature scent that makes your home welcoming. Browse the full collection online or visit your local store to find your perfect match.

FAQs

What are the most popular Yankee Candle scents?

Some of Yankee Candle's most popular signature scents include Lilac Blossoms, Clean Cotton, Vanilla Candle, Pumpkin Spice, and Sage & Citrus among many others.

How long should I burn a Yankee Candle?

It's recommended to burn Yankee Candles no more than 4 hours at a time. Allow the candle to completely cool before relighting to prevent damage to the wax. Trim wicks to 1⁄4 inch before each use for optimal burn.

Are Yankee Candles safe for pets?

Be very cautious using candles around pets. Never leave a burning candle unattended in a space accessible to pets. Certain essential oils used in scented candles can also be irritating or toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

Where are Yankee Candles manufactured?

While Yankee Candle started in Massachusetts in 1969, today their candles are manufactured in plants in Massachusetts, Virginia, and Ohio to meet global demand.

What candle holders are safe to use?

Always place candle jars on heat-safe, nonflammable surfaces. Great options include metal, glass, or ceramic candle holders and plates. Avoid setting jars directly on wood tables or near fabrics.