How to Trademark a Candle Brand

Which trademark class covers candles?

Candles fall under Class 4 of the USPTO's international classification system. Class 4 covers candles, scented candles, tea lights, votives, pillar candles, and wicks for lighting. When you file your candle brand's name or logo, you register it in Class 4 to protect it for those specific goods. Trademark protection is tied to the class of goods you actually sell, so choosing the correct class is the foundation of a strong registration.

Many candle businesses sell more than candles. If you also offer reed diffusers, room sprays, or essential oils, those goods fall under Class 3 (cosmetics and cleaning preparations). A candle gift set combining several product types, or a retail store or online shop selling candles, may point to Class 35 (retail services). Each additional class carries its own $350 USPTO fee, so map your product line before you file. As part of protecting your intellectual property, registering in every class where you do business keeps competitors from using a confusingly similar mark on related goods.

How much does it cost to trademark a candle brand?

Trademarking a candle brand costs from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO filing fee. The $99 is Secure Mark USA's service fee to prepare and file your application; the $350 is the government fee the USPTO charges for each class of goods. A single-class candle application (Class 4 only) therefore has a combined starting cost from $99 plus $350. If you add a second class — for example Class 3 for diffusers — you pay an additional $350 government fee for that class. There are no recurring annual fees; a registered U.S. trademark lasts as long as you keep using it and file the required maintenance documents.

How do you file a trademark for a candle brand step by step?

Filing a trademark for a candle brand takes five core steps. First, run a clearance search to confirm your name isn't already registered or in use for candles or related goods. Second, identify your class — Class 4 for the candles themselves, plus any additional classes for related products. Third, prepare a specimen showing the mark in use, such as a product label or a listing on your store. Fourth, file the application with the USPTO through a service like Secure Mark USA, which handles the paperwork and classification. Fifth, monitor the application and respond to any USPTO Office Action within the deadline. Trademark registration through the USPTO is the strongest form of brand protection available to a candle business, giving you nationwide rights and the ® symbol once your mark registers.

Key takeaways

• Candles are classified in USPTO Class 4 (candles and wicks for lighting).
• Related goods like diffusers fall in Class 3, and retail sales in Class 35 — each added class costs an extra $350.
• Federal filing starts from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO fee.
• U.S. trademark rights are largely first-to-file, so filing early secures priority.
• A registered trademark lasts indefinitely if you keep using the mark and file maintenance documents.

Frequently asked questions