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Stock Fragrance FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Answers to common questions about Stock Fragrance β€” buying, dosage, IFRA compliance, certifications, documentation, custom services, and the VIP program. Pulled from each page's own FAQ; the source page is linked under each section heading.

01

Getting started & buying

What's the difference between fragrance oil and essential oil?

Essential oils are ingredients. Fragrance oils are finished blends. An essential oil is extracted from a single plant; a fragrance oil combines multiple aromatic materials β€” natural and synthetic β€” into a complete, performance-tested composition. Our fragrance oils are all finished blends, ready to be used in any product β€” we do not sell ingredients, raw materials, or single note scents. For more, read The Dark Side of Essential Oils.

Can one fragrance oil be used in any product?

Yes. In the professional fragrance industry, large companies make a unique formula for every SKU β€” but for smaller brands that doesn't make sense, so you want one oil that works in as many SKUs as possible. Each Stock Fragrance oil is formulated to perform across categories β€” from candles to soap to body care β€” at the IFRA-approved dosage for each product type, listed on every product page.

How much fragrance oil do I need for my product?

Final dosage depends on three things: how much fragrance your product can physically hold, the IFRA guidelines (posted on each fragrance page) for your product category, and personal preference β€” some prefer a subtle scent, others want a strong throw. Typical dosages for all 12 IFRA product categories are listed on our fragrance oil calculator page, which also does the math by container size, dosage %, and quantity. Not sure which IFRA category your product falls under? Use our IFRA category lookup tool β€” and when a product could fit more than one category, use the most restrictive. Published ranges are starting points for testing, not safety limits; the exact maximum for your oil is on its IFRA 51 Regulatory Data Sheet.

What's the smallest amount of fragrance oil I can order?

We offer all our catalog oils by the ounce or pound β€” order as much or as little as you need. There's no minimum order quantity. Custom development (Private Stock) and specialty conversions (water-soluble, microencapsulation) are subject to production minimums, which vary by formula and start at 25 lb per fragrance (microencapsulation minimums are higher, starting at 100 lb).

How much do your fragrance oils cost?

All oils are available by the ounce (a flat $9.99 per ounce) or by the pound (varies by formula). The listed price is the best available at any quantity, so there's no volume penalty and no minimum order on stock oils; VIP members receive additional discounts as annual spend grows.

How do I try a Stock Fragrance oil before I buy it?

We recommend ordering a Discovery Set before purchasing oil. Smelling samples should be used to evaluate character only β€” not display, strength, or performance. Those have to be evaluated in product, never out of the bottle. Once you've narrowed your shortlist, order 1 oz samples to test in your actual base before scaling to pound-volume.

Can I use your fragrance oils directly on skin?

No. Our fragrance oils are concentrated raw materials for making products β€” they are not finished products and are not meant to be used as is. Any Stock Fragrance oil can go into any product type, including perfume, but it has to be formulated into a base at the appropriate dosage β€” never applied neat, and never directly to skin. Refer to the IFRA documentation posted on each fragrance page for maximum-use levels by product category β€” our IFRA category lookup tool can help you find which category your product falls under. Each oil's IFRA Regulatory Data Sheet lists the safe-use level for personal care, perfume, body care, and other skin-contact categories β€” along with a separate Allergen Statement listing any of the 26 EU-listed fragrance allergens present at trace levels. If you need documentation beyond what's posted, request it via our Document Request form.

Where can I find IFRA, SDS, and allergen documentation?

Fragrance documentation can be viewed and downloaded directly from the 'Documentation' tab on each fragrance page. Types of documentation include the SDS (Safety Data Sheet), IFRA 51 Regulatory Data Sheet, Allergen Statement, California Prop 65 Statement, Natural & Synthetic Breakdown, and Biodegradability Statement. If you don't see what you need posted, request it via our Document Request form.

Who designs Stock Fragrance oils?

Stock Fragrance was founded on the work of CΓ©cile Hua, a professional perfumer with 20+ years in fine fragrance and consumer products. CΓ©cile holds a Master's in Chemistry, graduated from the invitation-only Givaudan-Roure Perfumery School in Grasse, and is a 2020 Fragrance Foundation Hall of Fame Finalist. Every oil in our catalog is either designed by CΓ©cile or personally selected and approved by her before it carries the Stock Fragrance name.

02

Standards & documentation

What is IFRA and why does it matter?

IFRA (the International Fragrance Association) is the global governing body for fragrance safety and regulation. Their guidelines are voluntary and based on exposure (skin contact) to allergens present in the formula, which is why category limits change based on product type. IFRA makes minor updates to its standards continuously, and major updates β€” amendments β€” less often; the current version is the 51st Amendment, with usage limits across 12 product categories from fine fragrance to household cleaning.

How long do fragrance oils last in storage?

The 'official' shelf life of fragrance oil is 1 year from production, but they typically last much longer when stored properly β€” away from light, temperature change, and air. Oxidation is the main degradation mechanism: minimize headspace in containers, use amber or dark glass, and keep storage cool and stable. As long as the oil is visually and olfactively in spec (per its Certificate of Analysis), it can be used.

What is flashpoint and why does it matter?

Flashpoint is the lowest temperature at which a liquid produces enough vapor to ignite when exposed to a flame or spark. For fragrance oils, this matters in three places: transport and storage safety (hazmat shipping classification), manufacturing processes that use heat (hot-pour candle wax, encapsulation), and finished candles (to avoid flashover during burning). We generally keep all our oils' flashpoints above 140Β°F (60Β°C). Each oil's flashpoint is listed in its SDS, found in the 'Documentation' tab on the fragrance page.

Do you offer custom fragrance development?

Yes. Beyond our ready-to-use catalog, Private Stock is our custom fragrance service ($1,500 per fragrance): we either modify an existing Stock Fragrance formula or develop an entirely new one from your inspiration, made exclusively for you. No dupes, no types, no exceptions. Learn about custom fragrance design.

Do your oils carry IFRA certification?

Yes. Every Stock Fragrance oil complies with the IFRA 51st Amendment, the current global standard for fragrance safety. Each oil's IFRA 51 Regulatory Data Sheet β€” downloadable from the 'Documentation' tab on its product page β€” lists the maximum recommended usage levels across all IFRA product categories, from fine fragrance to household cleaning. If you're not sure which category your product falls under, our IFRA category lookup tool will point you to the right one.

Are your fragrance oils phthalate-free?

Yes. Every Stock Fragrance oil is phthalate-free β€” we do not use phthalates in any formulation. Phthalates (like DEP) are low-cost solvents historically used to dilute and carry fragrance. All of our formulas are also paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made in the USA. Per-product certifications beyond these are listed on each product page.

How do I request documentation?

For most needs, the documents posted on each product page are sufficient. But if you need something else β€” such as a retailer-specific compliance attestation, or documentation in a custom format your buyer requires β€” please submit it through our Document Request form. Please allow up to 2 weeks for processing.

What's the difference between "clean" fragrance and a certified fragrance?

"Clean" is a marketing category β€” not a regulated standard. Different retailers (Sephora, Target, Credo) maintain their own "clean" criteria with different excluded-ingredient lists. A certified fragrance is one that meets a specific, audited standard (EPA Safer Choice, EWG Verified, ECOCERT, ISO 9235, etc.) β€” browse our oils by certification. At Stock Fragrance we work with both, but always anchor claims to the specific standard that backs them.

What is an IFRA category?

IFRA categories (1 through 12) group finished consumer products by how, where, and how much a person is exposed to the fragrance. The category determines which maximum usage limit for restricted fragrance ingredients applies to that product under the IFRA Standards. Find your product's category with our IFRA category lookup tool.

What is the IFRA 51st Amendment?

The IFRA Standards are the fragrance industry's safety rules, based on science from the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) and reviewed by an independent Expert Panel for Fragrance Safety. The 51st Amendment, notified on June 30, 2023, is the current version. Since the 49th Amendment, limits combine QRA2 (skin-sensitization risk by body site) and a systemic-toxicity check based on total exposure; the stricter of the two is published.

How do I find the IFRA category for my product?

Every fragrance page posts an IFRA 51 Regulatory Data Sheet (RDS) in its 'Documentation' tab, listing each IFRA category with that oil's maximum recommended usage level. If you're not sure which category your product falls under, type your product type into our IFRA category lookup tool β€” for example lip balm, body lotion, shampoo, reed diffuser, or candle. The tool returns the most likely category with a short description and citation, based on the IFRA 51st Amendment guidance, Table 12.

Is the lookup tool definitive, and who decides my product's category?

No β€” the tool is a starting point that points you to the most likely category from the IFRA product list. Under the IFRA guidance, the finished-product manufacturer (the brand) is responsible for choosing the correct category, especially when a product could fit more than one. Use the tool to narrow it down, apply the most restrictive category when in doubt, verify against the official IFRA Standards, and contact IFRA with any questions.

What if my product isn't listed in an IFRA category?

Some products are not assigned to a single fixed category in the IFRA guidance, or need a judgement about intended use. If your product cannot be found, contact IFRA directly β€” choosing the correct category is the brand's decision as the finished-product manufacturer.

What is ISO 9235 and what does 'plant-based' mean?

ISO 9235 is the global standard for aromatic natural raw materials in perfumery. It defines exactly what materials qualify as 'natural' β€” those derived from plants through physical processes only (distillation, extraction, expression, cold-pressing), without chemical modification. When a fragrance is certified as 'plant-based' under ISO 9235, it means the formula is built entirely from materials that meet this definition. It's not the same as 'organic' or 'biodegradable' β€” those are separate standards.

03

About our fragrance oils

Why are our fragrance oils more expensive than others?

Our prices are based directly on the materials used in the formulation. As a point of reference, some of our ingredients β€” like rose and iris β€” are worth more than their weight in gold. Quality ingredients cost more, and we use the best materials possible so we can make the best-smelling, best-performing fragrance oils. That said, we work to provide the best price possible across a wide range of budgets.

Do you sell ingredients or raw materials?

No. All Stock Fragrance oils are proprietary, finished blends. We do not sell single-note materials, raw ingredients, or bases. Every oil is a complete, performance-tested composition, ready to be dosed straight into your product at the IFRA-recommended level β€” no additional blending required. Browse the full catalog on our Fragrance Oils hub.

Can you modify a fragrance formula?

Technical modifications of our existing oils are considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the changes needed. Technical modifications include adjusting flashpoint, customizing IFRA maximums for a target category, or enhancing performance in a specific base (laundry, hot/cold candle throw, reed diffuser). We do not change an oil's olfactive character, and we do not reformulate to reduce cost. If what you need is a different scent, that's a new fragrance β€” see our custom fragrance design service.

Do you have a dupe of a designer or brand fragrance?

We don't make dupes. We respect other people's work too much to copy it and call it our own. That's olfactive plagiarism. Every Stock Fragrance oil is original. No dupes. No types. No gimmicks. You can use our AI fragrance guide to suggest alternatives from our collection based on the family or ingredients in the fragrance you're looking for.

Do you ever discontinue a fragrance oil?

As a rule, no β€” and so far we never have. You should be able to build a product around one of our oils and keep reordering it. We'd only retire a fragrance if something forced our hand, such as a regulatory change or a raw material that's no longer available.

04

How we make our oils

Who produces Stock Fragrance oils?

Our oils are produced by a small circle of heritage fragrance manufacturers, anchored by one of the largest in the world β€” a family-owned company in business since 1871, now in its 5th generation. We select our manufacturers on know-how and quality: generations of perfumery craft, world-class quality systems, and the scale to guarantee consistency and supply continuity.

Where are Stock Fragrance oils made?

Our fragrance oils are blended, quality-controlled, and shipped from our New Jersey facility. Global production capability is available at scale, subject to volume requirements.

What about quality control?

Our quality control is some of the strictest in the industry, and it's applied at two levels: raw materials are verified before they ever enter production, and every finished batch is matched against the reference formula. Each batch is evaluated olfactively, technically, and visually against its reference standard, and is certified with its own Certificate of Analysis (CoA) confirming ingredient and final-blend specifications before shipment.

05

Ordering & shipping

What shipping services do you offer?

We offer USPS and UPS β€” domestic and international. Estimated transit times and costs are shown at checkout; once the carrier has the package, we have no control over actual transit time or routing. For larger orders, we can ship via your freight forwarder or shipping account β€” just let us know in advance, before placing the order. Free standard US shipping on all orders over $100. VIP members receive free US shipping on every order plus complimentary shipping upgrades.

What containers do fragrance oils ship in?

All fragrance oils ship in UN-approved aluminum containers β€” unbreakable, leakproof, and designed to protect the oil from light, moisture, and oxygen during transport and storage. For custom oils and special orders, we can ship in the container of your choice.

Can I return fragrance oil?

Yes β€” unopened products only, within 30 days of purchase. We accept returns of products in their original, unopened packaging with the safety seal intact; once a seal is broken, the product can't be returned. Return shipping is the customer's responsibility (we recommend a trackable service), and original shipping costs are non-refundable. Once your return arrives and passes inspection, your refund is issued to the original payment method within 7–10 business days. Gift cards, smelling sample sets, and custom services (Private Stock, and consultations once started) are final sale. Full details are in our refund policy.

What should I do if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?

Please inspect your order as soon as it arrives. If an item is damaged in transit, or not what you ordered, contact us immediately β€” with your order number and a photo of what you received β€” so we can evaluate the issue and make it right. Our aluminum shipping containers are unbreakable and leakproof, so transit damage is rare, but when something does go wrong we'll resolve it quickly.

How long does it take to process and ship my order?

Stock oils are typically processed within 1–3 business days, excluding weekends and holidays. You'll receive a shipment confirmation email with tracking once your order ships (carrier pickup may not happen until the next business day) β€” the tracking number activates within 24 hours. During high-volume periods, shipments may be delayed by a few days; if there's a significant delay, we'll contact you by email or phone. Estimated transit times and costs are shown at checkout, and we do not control transit time or routing once the carrier has the package.

Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?

There's no formal change or cancellation window β€” contact us as soon as possible and we'll do what we can. Orders are typically processed within 1–3 business days, so the sooner you reach us, the more likely we can catch your order before it ships. Email is best: just reply to your order confirmation email.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit and debit cards β€” Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and JCB β€” plus PayPal and the digital wallets Shop Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Stock Fragrance gift cards can be applied at checkout as well, and if a gift card doesn't cover the full order, the remaining balance can be paid with any other method. All orders are charged in US dollars.

Do you accept resale or tax-exemption certificates?

Yes. Sales tax is calculated and collected automatically by Shopify based on your shipping destination, so it's applied at checkout by default. If you're buying for resale and have exemption documents, email them to hello@stockfragrance.com and we'll disable tax collection on your account. You have to be logged into that account when you place an order for the exemption to apply; an order placed while logged out will still have tax added.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes β€” we ship anywhere. International shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on destination and weight. Orders shipping outside the United States may be subject to customs duties and import taxes, collected from you before final delivery β€” see "Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes on an international order?" below. The free-shipping-over-$100 offer applies to US orders only.

Will I have to pay customs duties or import taxes on an international order?

Yes. On orders shipping outside the United States, duties and import taxes are collected from you before final delivery, typically by the carrier or customs. This isn't our choice β€” Shopify doesn't support DDP labels ("delivered duty paid," meaning duties prepaid by the sender) on any shipment, so there's no mechanism for us to pay your duties upfront even when we'd like to. The amount owed is set by your country's customs authority, not by us, and we have no control over what's charged or when. Duties and import taxes are separate from the shipping cost shown at checkout.

06

VIP B2B program

Do you offer wholesale accounts or pricing?

All prices on our website are the best available at any quantity, but our VIP program offers exclusive discounts for higher-volume purchases. Membership is automatic once you spend $1,000 per year, and includes perks such as complimentary custom design, payment terms, and more β€” learn more on the VIP program page.

How is annual spend calculated for VIP tier qualification?

Annual spend is calculated on a 12-month rolling basis, recalculated daily, based on orders tied to your account email. That means your tier always reflects your last 12 months of purchases β€” there's no calendar-year reset, no application, and no annual renewal. Your current tier determines which benefits apply at checkout and which complimentary services become available. Full tier details are on the VIP program page.

What counts toward my annual spend for VIP tier qualification?

All sales count β€” any order placed on your Stock Fragrance account, from catalog oils and samples to custom design and specialty services. Spend is tied to one email address only, so orders placed under different emails don't pool automatically; if your purchases are split across accounts, we can merge them by request β€” just contact us. Multiple people on your team can order under the same account email and share one VIP tier. Note that guest checkout orders don't count toward your tier, so make sure you're logged in to your account when ordering.

Is free shipping available for international VIP orders?

No. Free shipping applies to domestic US orders only β€” on orders over $100 for all customers, and on every order for VIP members.

Does my existing Stock Fragrance order history count toward my VIP tier?

Yes. Once you create an account, all past orders placed under that email address β€” including guest checkout orders β€” are captured in the account and count toward your VIP eligibility.

What happens if my annual spend drops below a tier threshold?

If you drop below a threshold, you'll be downgraded or lose status. Once you come back over the threshold, you qualify again automatically β€” you don't have to start over.

How can I check my current VIP tier status?

There's no automated way to check your tier status yet β€” contact us and we'll confirm your current tier and running total. You can also log into your account to review your orders over the past 12 months.

Do you offer payment terms or NET invoicing for VIP members?

Yes β€” NET 15 or NET 30 payment terms are available to VVVIP members. Contact us to set up terms on your account.

Do VIP discounts and benefits apply to custom oil orders?

No. VIP discounts and benefits do not apply to any custom oils. Custom orders do still count toward your annual spend for tier qualification.

07

Natural & clean fragrance

Is natural fragrance always safer?

No. Natural materials can contain allergens and even CMRs β€” substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic. Poison ivy is natural; that doesn't make it safe. Safety depends on concentration, exposure, and formulation β€” not just origin. That's why IFRA limits apply equally to natural and synthetic materials, and why every Stock Fragrance oil has an Allergen Statement posted on its product page regardless of how "natural" its formula is. More in What Is Natural Fragrance?

Why do ingredient bans differ by country?

Regulatory bodies update restrictions at different speeds and use different evaluation frameworks. The EU tends to adjust its ingredient lists more frequently than the U.S., and each framework weighs evidence differently β€” an ingredient can be permitted in one market and restricted in another without either being "wrong." Geography plays a role too: Australia, for example, enforces tighter VOC limits due in part to its proximity to the hole in the ozone layer. We don't automatically conform to every standard worldwide, but if you're selling into a specific market, we can check β€” submit a Document Request.

Are essential oils always considered natural?

Yes β€” essential oils are extracted from plants through physical processes, so they meet the definition of natural under standards like ISO 9235. But natural does not automatically mean safer or more sustainable: many essential oils contain naturally occurring allergens, and some don't meet biodegradability benchmarks. Producing them can also carry a real environmental cost β€” see The Dark Side of Essential Oils.

08

Custom fragrance design

How does custom fragrance design work?

Purchase Private Stock to reserve your place in our development queue, then complete our online briefing form. Once we receive the completed brief, we'll schedule a call to review the project together. From there we formulate and present submissions for your approval. You bring the inspiration and direction; the perfumer makes the creative and technical calls. If a project isn't accepted after review, your purchase is refunded minus a $100 review fee.

Do we have to meet in person, or can projects be done remotely?

No β€” meeting in person isn't required. We work with clients around the world and ship samples anywhere; consultations and reviews happen by phone or video.

How long does a custom fragrance project take?

Every project is unique. Plan on roughly 4–6 weeks of development after the kick-off call to reach an approved formula β€” technical modifications are usually faster than new developments β€” then 10–14 business days of production once approved, subject to raw-material availability.

Do I choose the ingredients?

No β€” you provide the inspiration through the project brief, and the perfumer creates. Perfumers are highly skilled, trained experts, and we rely on their expertise for creativity, safety and regulatory compliance, and performance.

Do I own the formula?

No β€” we don't transfer or disclose our formulas (this is industry standard). You get exclusive access to the finished oil: it's made only for you, available to order anytime through a private, password-protected link.

How much does a custom oil cost?

The $1,500 formulation fee is separate from the oil itself, and you set the oil budget before formulation begins. For a modified oil it starts at the current price of the oil you're customizing; for a new development you set the target. Our Fragrance Oil Calculator can help you plan.

Is there a minimum order for a custom oil?

Yes β€” all custom oils are subject to production minimums, which vary by formula and start at 25 lb per fragrance. If the minimum order quantity is larger than you need right away, we can hold the extra oil and ship it to you as needed, at no additional charge.

Can a custom fragrance meet a specific certification or standard?

Yes β€” certification and compliance targets are part of the brief (EPA Safer Choice, IFRA, plant-based/ISO 9235, Clean at Sephora, retailer or regional standards). See our certification list. Please keep in mind that certification compliance may restrict the materials we can use and the olfactive directions we can achieve.

Is my custom project confidential?

Yes. All project information is treated as confidential. We generally don't need or use an NDA β€” but if you require one, please just let us know.

09

Fragrance oil calculator

How does the fragrance oil calculator estimate cost?

The calculator works from three inputs: your container size (in ounces or milliliters), your fragrance dosage as a percentage, and the number of units you're making. From those, it calculates how much fragrance oil you need β€” per item and for the whole batch. To estimate cost, add your oil's price per pound and it shows the fragrance cost per unit and in total; leave the price blank to just see quantities. Unsure what dosage to enter? Check the IFRA documentation on your oil's product page for the maximum recommended level for your product category.

Can you use too much fragrance oil?

Yes. Overloading can cause stability issues and make products unsafe β€” in candles it can mean poor burn or flashover risk; in skin-contact products it can exceed the IFRA maximum recommended level for your category. More fragrance also doesn't always mean more scent: every base has a limit to how much oil it can hold. Stay within the IFRA maximum on your oil's documentation (our IFRA category lookup tool can help if you're unsure of your category), and remember the calculator only computes quantities β€” it doesn't validate that your dosage is safe.

Can I mix or blend your fragrance oils myself?

All of our fragrances are finished blends and not meant to be mixed or altered β€” doing so voids all safety and regulatory documentation (including IFRA), as these are formula-specific. Fragrance is more heavily regulated than food, and formulas are strictly controlled.

Should I measure fragrance oil by weight or by volume?

By weight. Fragrance oil densities vary from formula to formula, so a fluid ounce of one oil can weigh noticeably more or less than a fluid ounce of another β€” measuring by volume makes your dosage percentage unreliable and your batches inconsistent. A simple digital scale solves it: weigh your base, weigh your oil, and your dosage percentage stays accurate across every batch and every oil. Dosage percentages in IFRA documentation (and in our fragrance oil calculator) are weight-based.

Should I test a fragrance oil before scaling to a full batch?

Yes. Testing is always necessary β€” it's an essential part of development and production. A fragrance behaves differently in every base, so evaluate performance, character, and stability in your actual product, never out of the bottle. Order a 1 oz sample, test it in your base at your target dosage, and only then scale to pound-volume. Remember to allow cure time β€” up to 2 weeks β€” for the fragrance to fully integrate.

10

Certifications & compliance

How many certifications can a single fragrance oil carry?

There's no real limit. Every certification has its own criteria, so the same formula might pass one and fail another β€” and those criteria change continuously. A single Stock Fragrance oil can carry 25+ verified compliance attributes depending on its formulation, from EPA Safer Choice, ISO 9235 (plant-based), and ECOCERT to Clean at Sephora and other retailer standards; the full list for each oil is on its product page's Documentation tab. For catalog oils, we create first and verify after β€” the fragrance is never designed around a checklist. For custom projects, we work to the specs of your brief; just keep in mind that the more certifications required, the more the perfumer's palette is restricted, which can limit what's achievable olfactively.

Are these certifications independently verified or self-claimed?

Certifications are not self-claimed β€” each is defined and administered by its issuing body, and every claim on a Stock Fragrance oil is traceable to that body's criteria and documentation. But they don't all work the same way: some are pass/fail based on ingredient lists, others depend on the levels of specific ingredients in your end product, and many β€” like EPA Safer Choice or EWG β€” are only available at the product level. In those cases the oil itself isn't certified; it's formulated to pass when you submit your finished product for certification.

What's the difference between "compliant" and "certified"?

Certifications are typically issued at the finished-product level, so we don't certify oils. What we do is pre-screen each formula against the certification's published criteria to ensure it will pass should you choose to certify your product. "Compliant" on our certifications page means exactly that: the oil has been verified against the standard's criteria, so the fragrance won't be the reason a product-level certification fails.

Which certification should I prioritize for my product?

That's really up to what matters most to your brand. Every certification measures something different, and the same oil can pass one and fail another β€” so there's no universal ranking. Choose the standards that matter most for your positioning, your retail channel, and your market, then select oils verified against those. Not sure how to approach it? Book a consultation and we'll help you map the right standards to your product and channel.

Can a fragrance that passes pre-screening still fail certification in my product?

It can β€” so it's always best to check with the specific certification. Some certifications are pass/fail based on the ingredient list; others depend on the final levels of specific ingredients in your finished product, which means your dosage and the rest of your formula matter too. Certifications are updated and changing continuously, and we conform to the most recent standards β€” which is why compliance is always verified against the current edition of each one.

Does compliance documentation or pre-screening cost anything?

No β€” our checks are free. Pre-screening is built into how we formulate, and compliance documentation is posted on each product page at no charge. Certifying your finished product is a different matter: issuing bodies charge for product-level certification, sometimes a lot, so factor that into your plans β€” always check with the issuing body for details.

Do these certifications apply internationally?

Check with the issuer. Some standards are international (ISO 9235, IFRA), while others are tied to a specific market or regulator (EPA Safer Choice, California Prop 65). Whether a claim carries weight in another market is the issuing body's call β€” confirm with them before relying on it for export.

Do certifications cover the manufacturer or the formula?

We don't certify anything ourselves β€” certification is always the issuing body's role. What we do is pre-screen each formula against a certification's published criteria, so you know which certifications your product could pass if you apply. Separately, our manufacturers hold their own facility-level certifications (ISO 9001, GMP, etc.), so both the formula and the process behind it are documented.

What if a certification I need isn't listed?

Tell us. Our certifications page covers the most commonly requested certifications, but if you don't see what you're looking for, please contact us.

11

Water-soluble fragrance

How much do water-soluble fragrances cost?

Water-soluble fragrance is available by special order only and subject to production minimums, and samples aren't available β€” please contact us for pricing and details.

Do water-soluble fragrances smell the same as oil?

Converting an oil to water-soluble form can shift its character slightly, so we always work to achieve the closest possible match to the original olfactive profile.

Is the usage rate the same as the fragrance oil version?

No β€” not the same at all. Water-soluble fragrance is meant for very specific applications such as water-based reed diffusers, laundry, or any product that might require 'shake and use.' The final dilution ratio is typically around 1:1 fragrance to water.

When do I need water-soluble instead of standard fragrance oil?

Most products are water-based, and our standard fragrance oils work fine in them (laundry, surface cleaners). Water-soluble is typically used for concentrates and for products where the consumer adds the product directly to water and needs it to solubilize immediately.

What are the production minimums for water-soluble orders?

Production minimums are formula-specific and can range from 25 to 100+ lbs, depending on the fragrance. Water-soluble lead times are also extended β€” typically 8–12 weeks to allow for proper QC.

Do an oil's certifications carry over to its water-soluble version?

No β€” certifications do not carry over automatically. All certifications would need to be re-run for the water-soluble version, and re-certification is not guaranteed.

What's the shelf life of a water-soluble concentrate?

Standard shelf life is 12 months from production, and we recommend using it within this time frame. Water-soluble concentrates are not as shelf-stable as fragrance oil, which keeps longer in its anhydrous (water-free) environment.

Are water-soluble fragrances safe for septic systems and the environment?

Yes. Our water-soluble fragrances are formulated to be biodegradable and septic-safe. They break down naturally in wastewater treatment systems and do not contain harsh solvents or persistent chemicals. This makes them an environmentally responsible choice for household and commercial cleaning products.

12

Fragrance encapsulation

What is fragrance microencapsulation?

Fragrance microencapsulation is a process where fragrance molecules are enclosed in tiny capsules. These capsules protect the fragrance and release it gradually over time when triggered by friction, heat, or moisture. We offer both biodegradable and conventional capsule formats.

Should I use slurry or dry powder format?

It depends on the product form. Powder can be used for any dry product (detergents, cleaners, dry shampoo, etc.), while slurry is usually used for liquid applications. For any of our specialty services, a consultation is the first step β€” that's where we determine the right format and blend for your desired performance and application.

What are the production minimums and lead times for encapsulation?

Minimums vary by type of capsule and start at 100 lbs of encapsulated product. Once the fragrance oil is on hand, lead times are 4–6 weeks for encapsulation.

Does encapsulation change how the fragrance smells?

No β€” encapsulation impacts how the fragrance is delivered, not its character. The capsules protect the fragrance molecules until they are released (by friction, water, pH, etc.). Encapsulation only affects performance β€” bloom and longevity β€” not how the fragrance smells.

Do an oil's certifications carry over to its encapsulated version?

No β€” all certifications have to be re-checked for the encapsulated version. The certifications shown on our product pages apply to the oil only.

Can you encapsulate my existing fragrance formula?

No β€” we don't work with anyone else's formulas for anything we do. We only encapsulate Stock Fragrance's proprietary fragrance oils, which is how we guarantee quality and performance.

Is microencapsulation safe and eco-friendly?

Safety and environmental profile depend on the capsule format. We offer both biodegradable capsules β€” which break down naturally β€” and conventional formats, and capsule chemistry is one of the things we determine in your consultation based on your product and market. Encapsulated fragrance is used across personal care, home care, and cosmetic products; compliance for your specific application is verified per project.

What products can benefit from microencapsulation?

Microencapsulation is ideal for laundry detergents, fabric softeners, body lotions, shampoos, surface cleaners, air fresheners, and any product where long-lasting fragrance is desired. It shines wherever fragrance would otherwise be lost before the moment that matters: the capsules survive washing, drying, and storage, then release scent when triggered β€” think towels that bloom when rubbed, or laundry that still smells fresh weeks later. If you're wondering whether your product is a fit, a consultation is the first step.

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Blending & filling

Can you blend or fill with my own fragrance or formula?

No. For safety and regulatory reasons, we don't work with any outside formulas β€” for blending, filling, or anything else we do.

What does a blending and filling engagement include?

Every project is unique and scoped to your needs. In scope: mixing and blending fragrance into bases, filling, and assembly β€” delivered as bulk pack to you or to your fulfillment partner, across virtually any product category and format. We don't offer turnkey manufacturing and we don't do sourcing. What's possible depends on the specifics of your project, so the initial consultation is where we determine the best path forward and next steps.

Are there minimum order quantities?

We don't have set minimums β€” it depends on the project and the suppliers involved, and we won't really know until we talk. As a rule, smaller runs cost more per unit. The consultation is where we work out quantities that make sense for your project.

How is pricing determined?

There's no standard price list. Every project is priced individually, based on its scope and scale. After the consultation, if we determine the project is a good fit, we'll prepare an estimate for your approval before any work begins.

Can you handle packaging and labeling?

Yes β€” filling, packaging, and assembly are in scope; packaging and labels are supplied by you. We don't handle order fulfillment: the finished run ships as bulk pack to you or to your fulfillment partner.

Can you produce sampling or discovery formats?

Yes β€” formats like minis, vials, rollerballs, discovery sets, sachets, and scented paper are available, subject to production minimums that vary by type. We have a network of vendors we can work with depending on the project, so these formats are within scope.

Is blending and filling part of custom fragrance design?

No β€” it's a separate service. We can blend and fill for anyone using our fragrances, whether or not you've gone through custom fragrance design.

How does a project start?

Every project starts with a consultation. This gives us time to understand the project and goals, and confirm it's the right fit. If so, we'll agree on the best path forward together.

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HVAC scenting

Do you handle HVAC installation and service?

Yes. Our HVAC equipment partner supplies and installs the equipment and manages ongoing service. Stock Fragrance supplies the fragrance and supports fragrance selection and design.

How is HVAC scenting priced?

Pricing depends on the size of the space and the units involved. Units are leased and paid for monthly β€” installation and servicing are included β€” and fragrance costs are built into the monthly price. All pricing is project-specific.

Which fragrances can be used in HVAC systems?

Any Stock Fragrance oil can be used in HVAC scenting, and if a project calls for it, we can optimize a fragrance specifically for the machine. We can recommend options based on your space type, regulatory requirements, and brand positioning.

Can we create a custom scent for our space?

Yes. Through custom fragrance design (Private Stock), we can develop a signature scent for your space β€” usable in your HVAC system and in supporting products like candles or room sprays, so your brand smells the same everywhere.

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