Is Grow and Make ethical?

Overview

Grow and Make is a small-batch, purpose-driven brand based in the United Kingdom, specializing in eco-friendly candle making kits and home scent products. Founded by Claire and Andrew, the company aims to make ethical, sustainable, and enjoyable DIY experiences accessible to everyone. Their signature product, the Eco-Friendly Soy Wax Candle Making Kit, has earned an ethics score of 87/100, reflecting strong performance across animal testing, sustainability, and labor criteria. The brand has no major controversies on record and is committed to transparency in its supply chain and production methods.

Certifications

Grow and Make holds several rigorous third-party certifications that validate its ethical claims. It is a B Corporation, meaning it meets high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. The brand is also PETA Approved and officially Cruelty-Free, confirming that no animal testing occurs at any stage of production. Furthermore, the company is registered with the Vegan Society and its products are certified vegan, ensuring no animal-derived ingredients (such as beeswax or stearic acid) are used in their kits or candles.

Animal Testing & Vegan Range

Grow and Make is unequivocally cruelty-free and does not test on animals, nor does it commission third parties to do so. The brand is PETA Approved and listed on PETA's ‘Beauty Without Bunnies’ database. All products are 100% vegan—the soy wax is plant-based, and no animal-derived ingredients (e.g., beeswax, lanolin, or carmine) are used in any candles or packaging. They also avoid palm oil entirely, further reducing environmental and ethical concerns linked to deforestation.

Sustainability Pledges

The company has made a public commitment to carbon neutrality and actively measures its carbon footprint. It uses recycled and recyclable packaging materials, including cardboard boxes, paper labels, and glass jars that customers can reuse. Their soy wax is sourced from non-GMO soybeans, and they offset emissions through verified carbon offset programs. Grow and Make also operates a refill scheme for candle kits, encouraging reuse and reducing waste. The brand’s B Corp status requires continuous improvement in environmental performance, which they report annually.

Sourcing & Labor

Grow and Make prioritizes ethical sourcing and fair labor practices. Their raw materials—including soy wax, essential oils (free from phthalates and parabens), and cotton wicks—are sourced from suppliers who adhere to ethical labor standards. The company does not use child labor or forced labor, and its manufacturing is conducted in-house in the UK under safe, fair working conditions. While the brand does not yet have full supply chain traceability for every minor component, it actively audits its suppliers and publishes sourcing updates on its website.

Controversies Context

Grow and Make has no major controversies on record. There have been no public allegations of greenwashing, labor violations, or animal testing. The brand has faced minor consumer feedback regarding shipping costs and packaging size, but these have not escalated to ethical disputes. The company’s transparent communication and willingness to share its B Corp impact report bolster its credibility. Compared to many competitors in the DIY candle space, Grow and Make stands out for its third-party certifications and clear ethical stance.

Bottom Line

Grow and Make is a trustworthy, ethical choice for consumers seeking a cruelty-free, vegan, and sustainable candle making experience. With a strong ethics score of 87/100, verified by B Corp and PETA recognitions, the brand offers a product that aligns with animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and fair labor values. While costs may be higher than non-certified alternatives, the transparency and impact justify the premium. We recommend Grow and Make for eco-conscious crafters and those new to ethical consumerism.