Northern Lights Recalls Alaura Two-Tone Jar Candles Due to Laceration and Fire Hazards; Sold Exclusively at Costco (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

In December of 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving a popular line of home fragrance products. Specifically, Northern Lights Enterprises has issued a recall for its Alaura brand Two-Tone Jar Candles. These items were not sold in general retail stores or online marketplaces; instead, they were distributed exclusively through Costco warehouses across the United States. If you purchased these candles from a Costco location prior to December 16, 2021, it is important to verify whether your specific set is part of this recall.

The recalled products are distinctive in their presentation, designed to serve as both a scent source and a decorative accent for the home. Each candle is housed within a sturdy glass jar that features a two-tone design, topped with a metal lid that likely contributes to the product's aesthetic appeal. The label on the bottom of the container clearly identifies the brand as "Alaura Candles." Consumers should look for this specific branding on the sticker located at the base of the glass vessel.

This recall covers two specific scent varieties that were part of the Alaura Two-Tone collection: Frosted Forest and Vanilla Biscotti. While the product line may have included other variations, these are the specific scents identified in the safety alert. The decision to issue a recall was driven by reports indicating that the glass containers could fail structurally during normal use. Northern Lights Enterprises reported receiving 138 distinct incidents where the jar candles shattered, cracked, or broke apart while they were burning. Among these reports, three instances resulted in laceration injuries to consumers, underscoring the physical danger posed by the defective product.

It is crucial to note that this recall applies to units sold under the Northern Lights brand via the Alaura line at Costco. Because the distribution was exclusive to Costco warehouses, verifying your purchase history or inspecting the bottom of your candle jar for the "Alaura Candles" sticker and the specific scents mentioned above are the most reliable ways to determine if you possess a recalled item. The CPSC emphasizes that even if the candle appears intact and has not yet shattered, the potential for sudden breakage while lit makes immediate action necessary.

Consumers who believe they may have purchased these items should stop using them immediately. The recall was officially initiated on December 16, 2021, but because candles are often used over extended periods or stored in pantries and closets, it is possible that some units remain unused today. If you find a jar matching this description in your home, do not light the wick. Instead, follow the remedy instructions provided by Northern Lights to ensure your safety and receive compensation for the product.

The scope of this recall highlights how even reputable brands can encounter manufacturing or material defects that lead to serious hazards. By isolating the specific brand, scent, and retailer, consumers can quickly assess their risk without confusion. The focus remains on the Alaura Two-Tone Jar Candles in Frosted Forest and Vanilla Biscotti scents, sold exclusively at Costco, which pose both fire and laceration risks due to the potential for the glass container to fail under heat.

The hazard, explained

When you light a candle, you are essentially conducting a controlled experiment in heat management. The wax serves as fuel, the wick draws that fuel upward through capillary action, and the flame melts the surrounding wax to keep the cycle going. Under normal circumstances, the glass jar is engineered to withstand this thermal stress. However, with the recalled Northern Lights Alaura Two-Tone Jar Candles, something fundamental in that balance has gone wrong. The core issue is not just that the candles are burning; it is that the decorative glass containers are failing structurally under the heat they are designed to produce.

The specific physical mechanism here involves thermal shock and material fatigue. As the flame burns, the bottom of the jar heats up significantly. If the glass has microscopic imperfections from manufacturing, or if the metal lid traps excessive pressure or heat at the rim, the glass can no longer maintain its integrity. Instead of simply cooling down safely after you extinguish it, the jar begins to fracture. This is why reports describe the candles shattering, cracking, or breaking apart while still burning. The glass does not just get hot; it physically gives way, turning a vessel meant to contain fire into a source of scattered, sharp debris.

This failure creates two distinct and dangerous pathways for injury. First, there is the immediate laceration hazard. When a glass jar suddenly splits or shatters, it sends shards flying outward with considerable force. These fragments are often razor-sharp because the breakage is brittle rather than smooth. If this happens while you are nearby—perhaps trimming the wick, moving the candle, or simply sitting in the same room—these shards can cut skin, eyes, or even cause more serious injury if they strike vulnerable areas. The fact that there have already been reports of laceration injuries confirms that this is not a theoretical risk but a tangible physical danger.

Second, and perhaps more insidiously, there is the fire hazard. A shattered candle jar leaves molten, burning wax exposed on whatever surface it lands on—your table, your carpet, or your curtains. Unlike a contained flame in a proper holder, this spilled wax can ignite nearby combustible materials. Because the breakage happens while the candle is actively burning, the source of ignition remains active and uncontained. This can lead to a fire that spreads rapidly before you realize what has happened. The combination of flying glass and spreading fire makes this recall particularly urgent; it is not just about ruining your furniture, but about protecting your home and family from sudden, unpredictable danger.

It is important to understand that this is not a case of user error, such as burning the candle for too long. The hazard exists because the product itself cannot safely manage the heat generated during normal use. The glass structure is compromised from the start, meaning that every time this specific batch of candles is lit, the risk of catastrophic failure increases. This is why stopping use immediately is not just a recommendation—it is a necessary step to prevent the physical mechanisms described above from causing harm.

Who is most at risk

When we look at the recent recall involving Northern Lights’ Alaura Two-Tone Jar Candles, it is important to understand that while any household owner can be affected by this defect, certain groups face a significantly higher level of danger. The primary group at risk includes anyone who purchased these specific candles from Costco, as they were sold exclusively through that retailer. However, the nature of the hazard—glass shattering and cracking while burning—creates a unique set of vulnerabilities for different types of users.

Families with young children are among the most vulnerable demographics in this scenario. Children are naturally curious and often lack the spatial awareness to recognize hot glass or sharp fragments as immediate threats. If a jar candle shatters while lit, the resulting debris can scatter across floors or tables where children play or walk. The combination of open flames, hot wax, and sharp glass shards creates a perfect storm for severe lacerations or burns. Furthermore, young children are more likely to touch or knock over decorative items like these two-tone jars, increasing the likelihood of the container breaking before the candle has even been extinguished.

Elderly individuals or those with mobility issues also face heightened risks. As we age, our reaction times can slow, and our balance may become less stable. If a glass jar were to crack or break apart while in use, the sudden noise and visual shock could startle someone, potentially leading to a fall. Additionally, if the glass shatters near an elderly person’s legs or arms, the risk of deep cuts is substantial because older skin heals more slowly and is more prone to infection. The recall data already confirms that laceration injuries have occurred, underscoring that this is not just a theoretical risk but a documented reality for some users.

Another group at risk includes those who use candles as part of their regular home ambiance routine, particularly in living rooms or bedrooms where people may be seated or sleeping nearby. The Alaura candles come in decorative glass containers with metal lids, which might give a false sense of security regarding sturdiness. However, the defect allows the glass to break apart while burning. If you are sitting on a couch or bed near a lit candle that suddenly explodes into fragments, you could suffer injuries from flying glass or hot wax splatter. The fact that Northern Lights has received 138 reports of shattering and three specific injury reports indicates that this hazard is active and unpredictable.

Finally, anyone who keeps these candles in high-traffic areas or near flammable materials like curtains, upholstery, or paper products is at increased risk for fire hazards. The recall notes that the candles can pose both laceration and fire risks. If the glass breaks and the flame spreads to nearby objects, the danger escalates quickly. It is crucial to recognize that the risk is not just about the candle breaking; it is about where you place it and who is nearby when it does. By understanding these vulnerabilities, we can take the necessary steps to protect our loved ones and ourselves from preventable harm.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action or contact the manufacturer, you need to be certain that the candle sitting on your shelf is indeed part of this specific recall. Because Northern Lights sells a wide variety of products under their brand, it is important not to guess based solely on the scent or the general look of the jar. Instead, you must verify several specific physical and labeling details against the official recall criteria. This process might feel like a bit of detective work, but it is necessary to ensure you are handling the correct product safely.

First, look closely at the brand name printed on the container. The recalled items are specifically the Alaura Brand Two-Tone Jar Candles. You should see "Alaura Candles" clearly printed on a sticker located on the bottom of the glass jar. If your candle does not bear this specific branding, it is likely not part of this recall. Next, examine the design of the container itself. The recalled candles come in a decorative glass container topped with a metal lid. A key identifier is the "two-tone" appearance of the wax inside; the wax is designed to show two distinct colors or layers, which is a signature feature of the Alaura line being recalled.

While there are two scents associated with this recall—Frosted Forest and Vanilla Biscotti—you should not rely on scent alone to identify the product, as other brands may offer similar smells. However, if you have one of these two scents in an Alaura jar, it is a strong candidate for further inspection. Check the overall size and shape of the jar. The recall description notes that they are sold in decorative glass containers, so look for any high-quality or artisanal styling that matches the product photos from Costco.

Another crucial step is to verify where and when you purchased the candle. This recall applies exclusively to candles sold at Costco. If you bought your Alaura candles from a different retailer, such as a local gift shop or an online marketplace like Amazon, they are not part of this specific CPSC action. Additionally, consider the timeframe. The recall was issued on December 16, 2021, so if you purchased these items well before that date, especially during the holiday season leading up to it, there is a higher probability that your stock falls within the affected inventory.

To confirm your candle matches the recall exactly, follow these steps:

• Check the bottom label: Look for the sticker that explicitly says "Alaura Candles."
• Inspect the wax: Ensure it is a two-tone design within a glass jar.
• Verify the lid: Confirm it has a metal lid, not a plastic or wooden one.
• Confirm the retailer: Recall your purchase receipt to ensure it was bought at a Costco Warehouse.

If your candle matches all these descriptions, it is time to stop using it immediately. Do not wait for a notification letter, as some consumers may not have been contacted directly yet. Instead, take the steps outlined in the next section to secure your refund and ensure your home remains safe.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

The good news is that Northern Lights has made the process for resolving this issue straightforward and consumer-friendly, prioritizing your safety and satisfaction over retaining a defective product. Because the hazard involves the structural integrity of the glass container, there is no option to simply replace just the wick or repair the jar; the remedy is designed to ensure you are never left with a potentially dangerous item. Your primary path for resolution is a full refund. You have two distinct avenues to pursue this, depending on your convenience and location.

The most convenient method for most customers is to return the product directly to Costco. Since these Alaura Two-Tone Jar Candles were sold exclusively at Costco warehouses, the retailer has agreed to accept returns of the recalled items. You can take the candle—ideally still in its original packaging or with your receipt, though they are working to contact known purchasers directly—to any Costco Warehouse location. Staff will process a full refund for you on the spot. This is generally the fastest way to get your money back and physically remove the hazard from your home without dealing with shipping logistics.

If you are unable to visit a physical Costco Warehouse, Northern Lights has provided an alternative digital pathway. You can contact them directly via email at cr@northernlightscandles.com. It is important to note that because these candles pose a laceration and fire risk, you cannot simply mail the broken glass back, which would be dangerous for handlers. Instead, the remedy involves a specific verification step. You will need to cut the wicks of the candle as instructed by their support team. Once you have done this, you must provide verification of this action to Northern Lights. This step likely serves as proof that the candle is no longer functional and safe to use, ensuring it does not end up in a landfill or secondhand market where someone else might be exposed to the hazard.

After verifying that the wicks have been cut, Northern Lights will provide further instructions on how to safely dispose of the candle. Once this process is complete and verified, you will receive your full refund. For additional support or if you have questions about either method, you can call Northern Lights Enterprises at 800-407-0377 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. You can also visit www.alaurarecall.com or go to www.northernlightscandles.com and click on "Safety Recall" at the bottom of the page for detailed guidance. This multi-channel approach ensures that regardless of your location or ability to travel, you have a clear path to resolving the issue safely.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to discard a beautiful candle just because of a recall notice. The Alaura Two-Tone Jar Candles are visually striking, with their decorative glass containers and metal lids, and they offer a pleasant fragrance in scents like Frosted Forest and Vanilla Biscotti. We often want to enjoy the ambiance these products provide, especially during the holiday season or when trying to create a cozy atmosphere at home. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is a decision that actively invites significant physical danger into your living space. The core issue here is not just about the candle burning down normally, but about the structural integrity of the glass container itself failing while under thermal stress.

When you continue to burn a recalled Alaura candle, you are allowing heat to build up inside a glass vessel that has been identified as prone to catastrophic failure. Glass expands when heated, and if the material is compromised or manufactured with inconsistencies, it cannot handle the thermal cycling of being lit, burning for hours, and then cooling down. The consequence of ignoring this warning is that the jar may suddenly shatter, crack, or break apart while you are still in the room. This is not a slow leak or a minor defect; it is a violent structural collapse. The immediate result is hot wax splashing across your furniture, floors, and potentially your skin, which causes painful burns. But more critically, the glass itself becomes shrapnel.

The laceration hazard is the most severe risk associated with ignoring this recall. When the jar breaks, it does not simply crack neatly; it can explode into sharp, jagged shards of glass. These pieces can fly outward with enough force to cut skin, leading to serious lacerations that may require medical attention, stitches, or even surgery to repair. Northern Lights has already documented 138 reports of these jars breaking apart, which indicates a widespread and predictable failure pattern rather than isolated bad luck. Among these confirmed incidents, there have been three reported cases where individuals actually suffered laceration injuries. These are not hypothetical risks; they are real events that have already affected real people who may have ignored similar warnings or assumed their specific candle would be the exception.

Beyond the immediate physical trauma of cuts and burns, continuing to use these candles introduces a severe fire hazard. A shattered candle jar often leaves the burning wick exposed and unsupported, allowing it to tip over or come into contact with flammable materials like curtains, upholstery, or wooden surfaces that were previously safe. The combination of spilled hot wax, broken glass, and an uncontrolled flame creates a perfect storm for a house fire. By choosing to ignore the recall, you are gambling with your safety, your property, and the safety of anyone else in your home. The peace of mind you think you are preserving by keeping the candle is actually illusory; true peace of mind comes from knowing that the potential for harm has been completely removed from your environment.

Furthermore, consider the emotional toll of such an incident. A sudden shattering sound followed by the sight of broken glass and spilled wax is traumatic. It disrupts your home, creates a difficult cleanup situation involving sharp objects and hot residue, and leaves you with the lingering anxiety of whether the fire risk was fully extinguished. It is far better to handle the inconvenience of returning the item now than to deal with the aftermath of a preventable accident later. The recall remedy is straightforward and generous, offering a full refund regardless of whether you choose to return it to Costco or follow the alternative disposal instructions. There is no logical reason to accept the risk of injury when a safe and easy exit strategy is already available.

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