Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Tried + True” mean?

The name comes from our process. Because I’m sensitive, every product is tested, adjusted, and refined, sometimes many times, until it meets my personal standards. Only then does it earn the name Tried + True.

Why did you start making your own products?

Tried + True began as a personal health journey. After becoming more aware of everyday exposures and making lifestyle changes, I wanted full control over the ingredients I used on my body and in my home. What started with body oils and butters eventually expanded into deodorants and cleaning products.

Are your products plant-based?

Yes. Our formulas focus on plant-based ingredients that are thoughtfully selected for effectiveness, simplicity, and alignment with our clean-ingredient philosophy.

How are your products preserved?

We use preservation systems made with ingredients that are accepted by leading clean-beauty certification standards, including those commonly recognized by ECOCERT and COSMOS. They’re used at effective, minimal levels to maintain product safety and shelf stability without compromising our ingredient values.

Do you really only need 1 tablespoon (15mL) of liquid laundry detergent?

Yes. Tried + True laundry detergent is intentionally concentrated, so a small amount delivers exceptional performance. For most loads, 1 tablespoon is all that’s needed.

Using more does not improve results. In fact, excess detergent can leave behind residue, dull fabrics, and trap unwanted odors over time.

Our formulas are crafted without unnecessary fillers and are designed to rinse clean, leaving fabrics fresh, soft, and truly clean.

With Tried + True, less isn’t just enough—it’s optimal.

Why does my detergent or dish soap vary in thickness?

Our formulas are crafted with plant-based surfactants and clean, biodegradable ingredients, without synthetic thickeners or stabilizers.

As a result, subtle variations in texture may occur from batch to batch. Factors such as temperature, mixing, and the natural characteristics of these ingredients can influence whether a product appears slightly thicker or more fluid.

These variations are a reflection of the integrity of the formula and do not impact performance. For best results, use the same recommended amount regardless of consistency.

Why do I need to shake your All-Purpose Cleaner when I don’t with other brands?

Because our All-Purpose Cleaner is made with simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients, it doesn’t rely on heavy stabilizers or synthetic thickeners to keep everything perfectly suspended at all times.

Natural separation can occur as the product rests; this is normal and expected in cleaner formulations that prioritize simplicity and performance. A quick shake helps re-blend the ingredients, so the cleaner performs as intended with each use.

Many conventional cleaners use stronger stabilizers to prevent separation, but our approach favors function over unnecessary additives. Shaking before use ensures you’re getting the full benefit of the formula, just as it was designed.

Do your coconut soy candles burn cleaner, and how should they be burned?

Yes. Our candles are made with a vegan coconut soy wax blend, chosen for its smooth finish, strong scent throw, and clean, low soot burn when cared for properly.

Because coconut wax behaves differently than traditional soy wax, it’s normal to see a slight hang-up of wax on the sides of the vessel during early burns. This is part of how coconut wax works. As the candle burns down and reaches about halfway, the wax naturally catches up and melts evenly along the sides.

For best performance, we recommend:

Allowing the first burn to last 3–4 hours
Burning the candle for no more than 4 hours at a time
Trimming the wick to ¼ inch before each burn

Following these steps helps ensure an even burn, optimal scent throw, and the clean experience coconut wax is known for.

What kind of fragrance oils do you use?

We use high-quality, thoughtfully formulated fragrance oils that include essential oil components, carefully blended for candles, body, and home products. These fragrances are selected to meet our clean-ingredient standards while delivering a balanced, long-lasting scent experience.

Our fragrance oils are phthalate-free, designed for stability and consistency, and widely used in modern clean formulations. By blending fragrance oils with essential oil components, we’re able to create nuanced scents that perform well, remain true over time, and are thoughtfully tested through our Tried + True process before being offered.

We believe fragrance should enhance a space and a routine, not overwhelm it, which is why every scent is refined with intention and care.

Why don’t you use only essential oils for fragrance?

While essential oils are natural, they are highly concentrated plant extracts and are not automatically safer for every use or every person. Some essential oils can be irritating, sensitizing, or unsafe at the levels required to scent candles, body products, or home goods effectively.

By using phthalate-free fragrance oils blended with essential oil components, we’re able to create scents that are:

More consistent and stable
Safer for their intended use when properly formulated
Balanced in strength without overwhelming the senses

This approach allows us to enjoy the beauty of essential oils while maintaining control over concentration, performance, and overall product integrity. Every fragrance is carefully tested through our Tried + True process to ensure it aligns with our standards for comfort, balance, and everyday use.

How much is shipping? Do you use recycled packaging?

U.S. shipping is charged at a flat $4.99. If shipping costs exceed $4.99, we absorb the additional cost. Orders of $49 or more ship free within the U.S.

To reduce waste and keep costs down, we use recycled boxes and packing materials whenever possible—this helps us keep shipping affordable without compromising care.

Shipping to Alaska and Hawaii may require additional postage. If that’s the case, we’ll reach out before shipping your order.

Are your products suitable for sensitive individuals?

Our products are thoughtfully formulated and personally tested with sensitivity in mind. That said, everyone’s skin and body are different, so we always recommend reviewing ingredient lists and performing a patch test when trying something new.

Do you test on animals?

No. Tried + True products are never tested on animals.

Where are your products made?

Our products are small batch crafted in West Linn, Oregon with care, intention, and attention to detail.

Do you offer refunds or exchanges?

Because our products are personal care items, all sales are final. If there’s ever an issue with your order, please reach out and we’ll do our best to make it right.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us through the contact form on our website or by emailing us directly. We’re always happy to help.

Disclaimer:

These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.