What was recalled
In late December of 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving a popular seasonal product from Hallmark. The affected items are specifically the frosted balsam soy blend jar candles that carry the distinct Hallmark brand identity. These were not standard, everyday household candles; they were part of Hallmark’s festive line, designed to evoke the feeling of winter with their specific scent and appearance. The recall was officially dated December 20, 2019, marking the point at which consumers were urged to take immediate action. While the announcement came in late 2019, it is important for current owners to verify if they still possess these items, as they may have been stored in closets or basements and forgotten until the next holiday season.
The specific candles subject to this recall are visually distinct, which makes them relatively easy to identify. They feature a green-colored wax that fills the container, topped with three wicks designed for even burning. The glass jar itself is substantial, measuring approximately five inches in height and 4.5 inches in diameter. It is capped with a metal lid, giving it a sturdy, gift-ready appearance. On the front of the jar, you will find the Hallmark logo alongside the words “frosted balsam” and an image of a snowy pine cone, clearly marketing the scent profile as a fresh, winter forest aroma. This visual branding was intended to make the candle a centerpiece for holiday decor, but it also serves as a key identifier in this recall.
To confirm whether your specific candle is part of this batch, you must look at the white label located on the underside (the bottom) of the glass jar. The recalled units will display three critical pieces of identification information on this label: the date code “9211D,” the SKU code “XKT1747,” and the UPC code “763795556991.” If your candle matches all these codes, it is part of the recalled group. These candles were sold at various retail locations where Hallmark products are typically distributed. The recall covers all units that bear this specific combination of visual design and barcode identification, regardless of when exactly they were purchased within the distribution window leading up to the December 2019 announcement.
While the exact total number of units sold is not explicitly detailed in the summary provided by the CPSC, the scope of the recall is defined by these specific identifiers rather than a simple unit count. The focus is on ensuring that every single jar matching the description and codes is removed from use. Because these candles are often given as gifts or kept for long-term seasonal decoration, it is possible that they remain in homes today without being lit. However, the potential hazard associated with the glass construction means that even unlit units should be identified and returned promptly.
Understanding exactly what was recalled helps prevent unnecessary panic while ensuring safety. This was not a recall of all Hallmark candles, but rather a specific batch of frosted balsam soy blend jars with three wicks. By focusing on the physical description—the green wax, the metal top, the pine cone image—and the precise codes on the bottom label, consumers can accurately determine if their product is involved. This precision allows for a targeted and efficient remedy, ensuring that only the potentially unsafe items are addressed while other Hallmark products remain unaffected.
The hazard, explained
When you light a candle, you are essentially managing a small, controlled fire inside a container designed to hold molten wax. In the case of the recalled Hallmark frosted balsam soy blend candles, the primary failure point is the glass jar itself. These specific jars are made from frosted glass, which has different thermal properties than clear glass. Frosted glass often undergoes additional processing or has a surface texture that can make it more susceptible to stress fractures when subjected to rapid or uneven temperature changes. As the candle burns, the heat radiates outward from the flame and the pool of hot wax. If the heat distribution becomes uneven, or if the glass has microscopic imperfections, thermal stress builds up within the material. Eventually, this stress can exceed the structural integrity of the jar, causing it to shatter or crack suddenly.
This physical failure leads directly to two distinct types of harm: fire and laceration. First, consider the fire hazard. When the glass jar breaks, the liquid wax inside is no longer contained. Hot, flammable wax can spill onto nearby surfaces such as tablecloths, wooden furniture, or carpets. Since the candle wick is still burning, it can ignite the spilled wax or the surrounding materials, turning a simple decorative item into a source of household fire. The CPSC reports confirm that this mechanism has already resulted in fire damage to items near the candles in six documented incidents.
The second hazard is laceration, which refers to cuts caused by sharp objects. Glass jars, especially those designed to hold heavy wax, are often thick and durable when intact. However, when they fail catastrophically, they do not break into dull pieces; they shatter into sharp shards. If a jar breaks while you are nearby, or if you attempt to move it after it has cracked, these sharp fragments can easily cut skin. Even if the wax does not ignite, the risk of injury from flying glass or handling broken containers is significant. While no injuries have been reported in this specific recall, the potential for serious cuts remains a real and immediate danger.
It is important to understand that this is not just a "spillage" issue. The combination of open flame, hot flammable liquid, and sharp glass creates a dangerous trifecta. The frosted finish on these particular candles may also make it harder to visually inspect the glass for early signs of stress, such as tiny cracks or cloudiness, which are warning signs that a jar is about to fail. Once the structural integrity is compromised, the candle becomes unstable and unpredictable. This is why the recommendation is not to wait for a problem but to stop use immediately upon identification.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about product safety, it is easy to assume that a hazard affects everyone equally. However, the reality of how Hallmark’s frosted balsam candles can fail—specifically through the sudden shattering of the glass jar—means that certain groups face a disproportionate level of danger. The primary risk here is not just the flame itself, but the violent release of heat and sharp debris when the container fails. Understanding who is most vulnerable helps clarify why this recall was necessary and why immediate action is critical for every household.
The most immediate physical threat comes from the laceration hazard. When the glass jar breaks, it does not simply crack; it can shatter into sharp fragments that fly outward due to thermal stress. Children are particularly at risk in this scenario for several reasons. First, their lower height means they are closer to the floor where hot wax and broken glass might fall after an initial rupture. Second, children often lack the impulse control and situational awareness of adults. They may not recognize the warning signs of a failing candle, such as unusual cracking sounds or excessive smoke, until it is too late. Furthermore, their skin is more delicate than that of an adult, meaning even minor shards can cause deeper, more painful injuries that are difficult to clean out properly at home.
Elderly individuals also face heightened risks, though the nature of the threat differs slightly. As we age, our reaction times slow down, and our skin becomes thinner and more fragile. A sudden burst of flame or a shower of glass can lead to severe burns that take much longer to heal in older adults compared to younger people. Additionally, many elderly individuals live alone or have limited mobility. If a candle jar breaks and ignites nearby flammable materials like curtains, rugs, or upholstery, an older person might not be able to evacuate quickly or reach a fire extinguisher before the situation escalates beyond their control.
Pets are another group often overlooked in safety discussions but are undeniably at risk. Dogs and cats are naturally curious and may investigate the scent of the candle or the warmth of the jar. If the glass breaks, they can suffer serious cuts on their paws or pads, which are difficult to treat because animals instinctively lick wounds, introducing bacteria. Hot wax can also adhere to fur, causing severe burns that require professional veterinary intervention to remove safely without damaging the animal’s skin.
Finally, anyone living in homes with older electrical systems or cluttered spaces faces a compounded risk. The recall notes that fire damage occurred to nearby items. In cramped living rooms or bedrooms where candles are often placed on side tables near drapes or paper decorations, the proximity of flammable materials significantly increases the likelihood of a small incident becoming a major house fire. Therefore, while the candle itself is the source, the environment in which it is used plays a crucial role in determining the severity of the outcome for all occupants.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Because Hallmark sells a wide variety of home fragrance products, it is important to be precise when checking your shelves. The recall does not apply to all Hallmark candles, but specifically targets a distinct product line: the frosted balsam soy blend jar candles. If you have a different scent, a different wax type (such as paraffin), or a candle from a different brand entirely, this specific safety notice does not concern you. However, if you own these specific frosted balsam candles, you need to verify their details carefully to ensure they are part of the affected batch.
The most reliable way to identify the recalled item is by examining its physical appearance and labeling. Visually, the candle should be green in color and feature three wicks. The container itself is a glass jar that measures approximately 5 inches high and 4.5 inches in diameter, topped with a metal lid. On the front of the jar, you should see the Hallmark logo along with the words "frosted balsam" and an image of a snowy pine cone. These visual cues help distinguish this product from other holiday-themed candles that may look similar but are not part of this recall.
While the appearance can give you a strong clue, the definitive proof lies on the label located on the underside of the candle. You must flip the jar over and look for a white label. On this label, three specific codes must be present to confirm the item is part of this recall:
- Date Code: 9211D
- SKU Code: XKT1747
- UPC Code: 763795556991
If your candle lacks any of these codes, or if the numbers do not match exactly as listed above, it is likely not one of the recalled units. It is worth noting that the recall notice does not specify a particular retail store where these were sold, nor does it list a specific price point. This means you could have purchased this candle at any Hallmark Gold Crown store or authorized retailer during the holiday season leading up to December 2019. If you have lost the receipt, do not worry; as explained in our next section, you can still return the item for a full refund and additional compensation regardless of where you bought it.
When inspecting your candles, handle them gently. Although the hazard involves the glass breaking under heat, simply turning the jar over to check the bottom label is safe. If you find the codes match exactly, stop using the candle immediately. Do not attempt to burn it even once more, as the risk of the glass shattering remains present regardless of how long it has been on your shelf. Once identified, set the candle aside in a safe place away from children and pets until you are ready to return it.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Hallmark frosted balsam soy blend jar candles, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of yourself and your household. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identifies a serious risk: the glass jar can break while the candle is lit, which creates both a fire hazard and a laceration hazard from sharp glass shards. Because this failure happens during use, ignoring the issue could lead to property damage or personal injury. Therefore, you must take decisive action right away. Please follow these specific steps to protect your home and secure your remedy. First and foremost, you need to stop using the recalled candles immediately. Do not light the wicks, even if you are curious about the scent or want to test whether the jar holds up. The defect is inherent to the glass construction under heat stress, so there is no way to know which specific candle might fail next. Once you have decided to discontinue use, carefully extinguish any lit candles if they are currently burning, and allow them to cool completely before moving them. This step is critical because handling a hot or recently used jar could lead to burns or accidental breakage due to thermal shock. Second, do not throw the recalled candles in your regular household trash or recycling bin. Discarding them improperly could allow someone else to find and use them, potentially causing harm. Instead, prepare the candles for return. The official remedy provided by Hallmark is a full refund of the purchase price plus an additional $10 Hallmark Gold Crown gift card. To receive this compensation, you must return the item to the store where you originally purchased it. Bring the candle with you if possible, as having the physical product helps store associates verify the recall. However, the most important part of the verification process is the code on the label, so ensure you have that information ready. Third, locate the white label on the underside of the candle’s glass jar to confirm it matches the recalled items. You are looking for specific codes that identify this batch. Check for the date code "9211D," the SKU code "XKT1747," and the UPC code "763795556991." The candle itself should be green, feature three wicks, have a metal top, and display Hallmark branding with an image of a snowy pine cone. If your candle has these exact markings, it is part of the recall. If you cannot find the label or the codes do not match, the item may not be affected, but if you are unsure, it is always safer to err on the side of caution and contact Hallmark for clarification. Finally, if you have trouble returning the item to the store or need more details about the process, you can contact Hallmark directly. Call 800-HALLMARK (800-425-5627) between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, visit www.hallmark.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the homepage for online assistance. Taking these steps ensures you are no longer at risk and that you receive the full compensation offered by the manufacturer.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you possess one of the recalled Hallmark Frosted Balsam soy blend jar candles, please know that the company has established a straightforward and generous remedy to resolve the issue. It is important to approach this process with calm confidence; Hallmark is not asking for a standard return where you might receive store credit or an exchange for a different item. Instead, they are offering a full refund of the original purchase price, accompanied by an additional incentive to acknowledge the inconvenience caused by the safety defect. This dual-component remedy is designed to make it as easy and rewarding as possible for consumers to part with the hazardous product and move on to safer alternatives. The primary action you need to take is to return the candle to the specific store where you originally purchased it. This is a crucial detail that distinguishes this recall from some online-only returns. By bringing the item back to the point of sale, you can likely process the transaction more quickly than if you were to mail it or call for instructions on shipping. When you visit the store, simply present the candle and your receipt (if you have it) to a customer service representative. They will issue a full refund for the cost of the candle itself. This ensures that you are not financially penalized for a defect that was entirely beyond your control. In addition to getting your money back, Hallmark is providing a $10 Hallmark Gold Crown gift card as part of this remedy. This is a significant gesture, effectively turning a negative experience into a small bonus for your next visit. It is worth noting that the gift card is issued by Hallmark, not necessarily the retail store where you made the return, so it can likely be used across their broader network of channels. However, since the recall instructions specifically direct you to return the item to the place of purchase, you should confirm with the store clerk how and when this gift card will be provided. In many cases, retailers may hand it to you directly at the register, but policies can vary by location. You do not need to attempt any repairs on the candle. Because the hazard involves the structural integrity of the glass jar breaking under heat, no fix is possible or safe. The only remedy offered is a complete removal of the product from your home. Please stop using the candles immediately. Do not try to relight them to "test" them or see if they work correctly this time. The risk of fire and laceration is inherent to the manufacturing defect, and continued use offers no benefit while posing serious danger to you and your property. If you have lost your receipt or are unsure of which store you bought it from, Hallmark has provided direct support channels to help guide you. You can contact Hallmark Customer Service at 800-HALLMARK (800-425-5627) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit www.hallmark.com and navigate to the "Product Recalls" section at the bottom of the homepage for more detailed information and potential alternative resolution methods if your local store cannot process the return. The goal here is simple: get the dangerous candle out of your home, get your money back, and accept the gift card as a thank you for helping keep other consumers safe.What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might want to keep a beautiful candle just a little longer. Perhaps you are saving the last one for a special evening, or maybe you simply haven’t had the time to trek back to the store yet. That hesitation is human, and we don’t blame you for it. However, with this specific Hallmark recall, ignoring the warning carries consequences that go far beyond just wasting a few dollars on a product you no longer want. The core issue here is not merely that the candle stops burning well; it is that the container holding the flame becomes structurally unsound under normal use conditions.
When you continue to light this frosted balsam soy blend candle, you are inviting a glass jar to shatter while open flames are present inside it. This is not a theoretical risk or a minor inconvenience like a flickering wick. The hazard is immediate and physical: the glass can break. When that happens, you are left with an exposed pool of burning wax and lit wicks directly on your table, shelf, or countertop. This creates an uncontrolled fire hazard that spreads rapidly to nearby items. We know from the reports received by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) that this has already happened to at least six consumers. In those instances, the breaking jar resulted in actual fire damage to the surrounding area. While no injuries have been reported in these specific cases, the potential for burns to skin or clothing is very real when a hot glass container fails.
Beyond the immediate threat of fire, there is the significant risk of laceration. Shattered glass from a candle jar does not break into safe, rounded pieces. It creates sharp, jagged shards that can fly outward or remain scattered across the surface where you were sitting or standing. If you are holding the candle, reading near it, or simply walking by when it fails, you risk cutting your hands, arms, or legs on these sharp fragments. Cleaning up broken glass from a carpet or fabric surface is difficult enough; cleaning it up while trying to put out a small fire adds a layer of panic and physical danger that no one should have to face.
Finally, consider the emotional toll of such an accident. A candle is meant to bring warmth and comfort to your home. Turning that symbol of relaxation into the source of a sudden fire or injury creates a lasting negative association with what should be a peaceful ritual. The damage to your home’s surfaces—scorched wood, stained countertops, or charred fabrics—can be costly and difficult to repair. More importantly, the peace of mind you lose is irreplaceable. By taking five minutes to stop using the candle and returning it for your refund plus the $10 gift card, you eliminate these risks entirely. Do not let convenience override safety when the stakes involve open fire and sharp glass in your living space.