FAQs

Welcome to The Apawthecary Co.
Clean, handcrafted goods for everyday life — made in small batches with intention.


CANDLES

What are your candles made of?
Our candles are made with a clean-burning coconut–soy wax blend, eco-friendly cotton wicks, and high-quality fragrance oils free of parabens and phthalates.

Can I use your candles in a home with pets?
Yes. Our candles are designed for normal household use. As with any candle, always keep lit candles out of reach of pets and children and never leave them unattended.

How long do candles take to ship?

In-stock candles: ship within up to 4 business days

Fresh pours (out of stock): may take up to 10 business days to allow for pouring and curing

Shipping time is added to processing time.

How long do they burn?
Most 8 oz candles burn approximately 40–55 hours with proper care.

What are your burn safety guidelines?

Trim wick to ¼ inch before each burn

Never leave unattended

Keep away from drafts, pets, and children

Burn no longer than 3–4 hours at a time

Stop use when about ½ inch of wax remains

Will candles melt during shipping in hot weather?
Coconut–soy wax is softer than paraffin and may soften during transit. Minor surface changes are cosmetic and do not affect performance.

Can cold weather affect candles?
Yes. Frosting or light surface cracking may occur. This is cosmetic only.


SOAPS, SHAMPOOS & BODY PRODUCTS

Are your soaps and shampoo bars natural?
We use plant oils, butters, clays, and skin-safe fragrance blends. No parabens, phthalates, or harsh additives.

Are soaps and shampoo bars always in stock?
Yes. Our soaps and shampoo bars are sold in stock only and typically ship within up to 4 business days.

Are your shampoo bars safe for dogs and humans?
Our shampoo bar is a true soap bar designed for dogs and short-haired humans. Avoid eyes, nose, and inner ears. Results may vary for color-treated or very dry hair.

Do you use preservatives in lotions or sprays?
Yes. Any product that contains water uses a cosmetic-grade preservative system to ensure safety during normal use.

Are balms, oils, and lotions safe for sensitive skin?
We use gentle ingredients, but recommend a patch test before full use. Discontinue if irritation occurs.

Can temperature affect body products?
Yes. Temperature changes may affect texture or thickness but not performance.

What if my product looks slightly different than before?
Small-batch products may vary slightly. If something seems truly off, reach out and we’ll help.


SPRAYS & OILS

How should I use sprays and oils?
Follow directions on the product label. Avoid eyes and mouth. Wash hands after use if needed.


PET TREATS

Are your treats safe for dogs?
Yes. Our treats are made in small batches using simple, pet-safe, human-grade ingredients.

How long do treats last?
Our treats are made to order and, when stored properly, are safe for dogs for at least six months.

What is the best way to store treats?
Store in an airtight container away from heat or direct sunlight. Refrigeration may extend freshness for softer treats.

Can I return opened treats?
No. Opened treats cannot be returned for safety reasons. Eligible items may qualify for our Love It or Swap It Paw-mise™.


ORDERS & SHIPPING

How long does processing take?

Candles: up to 4 business days in stock; up to 10 business days if freshly poured

Soaps & shampoo bars: up to 4 business days

Balms, oils, lotions, scrubs, sprays, and treats: 2–4 business days

Shipping time is added to processing time.

Do you offer free shipping?
Yes. Orders of $35 or more qualify for free economy shipping within the U.S.

What shipping options do you offer?

Live carrier rates at checkout via USPS, UPS, or FedEx
Shipping costs are calculated based on order weight, destination, and selected service.

Do you ship internationally?
Not yet. We currently ship within the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii. Canada coming soon.


RETURNS, REFUNDS & SWAPS

Do you accept returns?
Unused, unburned candles may be returned within 21 days. Customers are responsible for return shipping. Original shipping charges are non-refundable.

Are body products or treats returnable?
No. These items are not returnable once shipped. Some items may qualify for a swap.

What is the Love It or Swap It Paw-mise™?
Eligible items may be swapped once per order for a $10 flat fee. No return required.

What if my order arrives damaged?
Email us within 7 days with your order number and photos.
📧 support@apawco.com


GIFTS, EMAIL & SAVINGS

Do you offer gift notes or gift wrapping?
Not at this time.

How can I save on my order?
Join our email list and receive 10% off your first order, plus early access to launches and exclusive offers.


PRODUCT CARE

How should I store products?

Candles: cool, dry place

Soaps & shampoo bars: keep dry between uses

Lotions & sprays: store cool, keep caps closed

Balms & oils: avoid extreme heat

Treats: airtight container away from heat


NEED HELP?

We’re always here.
📧 info@apawco.com
📧 Support: support@apawco.com
📧 Swaps: swap@apawco.com
📍 Bel Air, MD