It’s a new era for residential delivery.  UPS My Choice SM is a brand-new service that lets your residential customers make delivery choices before the package even arrives, reducing pressure on your customer service department-and possibly improving your bottom line.  Here’s how it works:

• UPS My Choice members get delivery alerts before a package arrives.  The day before delivery, members receive notice by e-mail, phone or text message.  The notice will include an approximate delivery time, an end-of-day or the committed delivery time for express services.

• Not home? No problem.  Even before UPS makes a first delivery attempt, members can electronically authorize the release of packages, allowing drivers to deliver packages that require a signature, or they can have them held at a UPS center for pickup.  For a $5.00 fee, customers can reroute packages to another address, reschedule delivery or have them delivered to a nearby The UPS Store location for a pickup.

• It’s easy to manage.  All these features can be accessed simply by logging on to www.ups.com from your PC or mobile device.

The UPS My Choice membership is FREE.  The Premium Membership, available for just $40.00 a year, offers even more features, including access to an online delivery calendar and unlimited rerouting.

Enroll today at www.ups.com/mychoice

In honor of the first day of Autumn, we take a look at our Fall Reed Diffuser Kit.  It makes the perfect gift or room decoration for this brisk season.  The kit comes with everything that you need to create a beautiful Reed Diffuser decor!

Just like in the stores, the Fall Reed Diffuser Kit comes with a reed diffuser bottle, wooden reed diffuser cap, 10″ reed diffusers, Fall Festival scented reed diffuser oil, and silk leaves for added flair.

If your summer reed diffuser scent is fading, now is the time to renew your room with a warm earthy, nutty aroma with rich, buttery vanilla notes!

The antimicrobial chemical triclosan in antibacterial soaps is believed to disrupt thyroid function and hormone levels in people; when it mixes into wastewater, it can cause sex changes in aquatic life.  And health experts believe that overuse of this and other antibacterial chemicals is promoting the growth of bacteria that are resistant to antibacterial treatment.

Better alternative: Good old-fashioned soap and warm water will kill just as many germs, studies have shown.  If you must use a hand sanitizer, pick one that’s alcohol-based and doesn’t list triclosan or other chemicals on its label.

Above is an excerpt taken from the article “5 Toxic Chemicals You Should Banish From Your Home,” written by Leah Zerbe, and found on Today MSNBC. http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/44258903/ns/health-health_care/?gt1=43001#.Tluv2V2wUUU

For more  information on what doctors are saying about Antibacterial Soap, read our blog Should We Avoid Antibacterial?

If you want to make your own inexpensive bars of soap that do wonders washing away dirt and bacteria, try using Melt and Pour Soap Bases, Essential Oils, and Soap Molds.  It takes about 5 minutes to make a beautiful bar of soap, and the soap will last through washing after washing.  Search our blog for creative soap recipes and a how-to video!

The White Thyme Essential Oil is derived from a plant whose genus (Thymus) is more than 5 million years old!  Some fossils have even shown impressions of thyme species that are still around today.  This ancient plant type was discovered in the Middle East and dispersed around the Mediterranean Sea.  Over the years, people have used this strong herb for a variety of purposes.  It has been added to food for flavor, made into a liquor, planted to attract pollinating honeybees, burned in sacred temples, and used as a medicine for gout, epilepsy, and even nightmares.  Thyme was used as a battlefield antiseptic in combat, including World War I.  Thyme oil was actually in short supply at the beginning of the war because Germany (our foe a the time) was our main supplier.

There are more than 100 species of thyme.  Some can reach heights of 15 inches, however, most people prefer the low lying herb.  The spicy, warm, herbaceous scent makes it a popular ground cover, for example, between stepping stones on a walkway.  Whatever the purpose, aromatherapists credit White Thyme Essential Oil with having stimulating, uplifting, and reviving properties.  That’s probably why centuries ago a bath infused with the oil was thought to revitalize tired soldiers and restore their courage.

Little Known Fact: Nicholas Culpeper, a 17th century herbalist and apothecary, wrote books that combined herbal medicine with astrology.  In one of his writings, it was found that the clean, bright, cephalic Thyme is the perfect essential oil for the Gemini (those born between May 22 and June 22).

For a Germ Killing Room Spray using White Thyme Essential Oil, please see our Stop the Flu Blog.

Every season has its fair share of sneezes, coughs, and sniffles.  In such circumstances, we typically run straight to the bathroom to use the antibacterial hand soap.  On the contrary, experts are now saying that this could actually help aid us in catching germs.

Antibacterial products help ward off bacteria we may have been in contact with, but it does not work against viruses, which are what cause the flu and colds.  Experts are also seeing that, when used in abundance, antibacterial cleansers may make us more vulnerable to germs.  “Soaps and hand cleaners that contain triclosan or other antibacterial agents should be avoided, ” claims Dr. Christopher A. Ohl (associate professor of infectious diseases at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC), “These agents have been shown to pressure bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics and really are unnecessary.”

It is always very important to thoroughly wash your hands throughout the day.  However, you don’t have to break the bank by buying antibacterial soaps.  In order to kill most germs, scrub your hands with plain soap and hot water for 30 seconds.  “If soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand hygiene products are an alternative for adults and older children,” mentions Ohl.

If you want a really inexpensive and creative way to keep yourself free from germs, try making your own glycerin soap with our Melt and Pour Soap Bases and Soap Molds.  The Soap Making Video gives step by step instructions on how to make beautiful bars of soaps.  Or follow our Hand Sanitizer Recipe in our bog to make your own hand hygiene product.

At Nu-Scents, we strive to keep you updated with the latest industry information and safety precautions.  We have found some important information regarding a chemical you may be using when making candles, soaps, bath, or body products.  Please use discretion and utmost care when making handmade items.

Dihydrogen monoxide (DHMO) is colorless, odorless, tasteless, and kills uncounted thousands of people every year.  Most of these deaths are caused by accidental inhalation of DHMO, but the dangers of dihydrogen monoxide do not end there.  Prolonged exposure to its solid form causes severe tissue damage.  Symptoms of DHMO ingestion can include excessive sweating and urination, and possibly bloating, nausea, and vomiting.  For those who have become dependent, DHMO withdrawal means certain death.

Due to its widespread use in the candle, soap, bath & body supplies industry, DHMO is involved in many environmental incidents each year.  While most are unavoidable given current technology, there can be little doubt that the presence of DHMO in each significantly increases the negative impact on the environment.  Dihydrogen monoxide is also known as hydroxl acid, and is the major component of acid rain.  It is not believed to be a carcinogen, although it is known to be a component of a number of cancer-causing agents.  Dihydrogen monoxide contributes to the greenhouse effect, may cause severe burns, accelerates corrosion of many metals, and has been found in excised tumors of terminal cancer patients.

Quantities of dihydrogen monoxide have been found in almost every stream, lake, and reservoir in America today, but the pollution is global.  The contaminant has even been found in Antarctic ice.  Despite the danger, dihydrogen monoxide is often used:

• as an industrial solvent and coolant
• in nuclear power plants
• in the production of styrofoam
• as a fire retardant
• in many forms of animal research
• in the distribution of pesticides – even after washing, produce remains contaminated by this chemical
• as an additive in certain junk foods and other food products

Companies dump waste DHMO into rivers and the ocean, and nothing can be done to stop them because this practice is still legal.  The American government has refused to ban the production, distribution, or use of this damaging chemical due to its “importance to the economic health of this nation.”  In fact, the Navy and other military organizations are conducting experiments with DHMO, and designing multi-billion dollar devices to control and utilize it during warfare situations.

Despite the known dangers, DHMO continues to be used daily throughout the industry.  Fortunately, there is much you can do to minimize the dangers of dihydrogen monoxide.  Whenever dealing with any product you think may be contaminated with DHMO, evaluate the relative danger and act accordingly.  Keep in mind that in many instances, low levels of DHMO contamination are not dangerous and, in fact, are unavoidable.  We hope that you find this information helpful.  Please be careful about which chemicals and ingredients you use in your candles, soap, bath, and body products.  You alone are solely responsible for the research, testing, and quality control of your finished products.

The economy has gone down while the costs of candle making have gone up.  However, you can still make a nice profit by being savvy.  Below, we have drawn up a couple of examples to show you how your candle making business can still bring forth a nice profit and keep you in business.

For the first example, we used an average sized jar that is reasonably priced.  In researching, we found that this type of candle typically sells for $9.00 each at area craft shows and fundraisers.  The items you need to make 12 candles are as follows:

• 1 case (12 jars) 9 oz Hexagon Jars;    cost:  $10.45
• 6 pounds NatureWax C-3 Soy Wax;    cost:  $6.48
• 1/4 Candle Dye Block;    cost:  $0.25
• 9 ounces Fragrance Oil;    average cost:  $11.99
• 12 Candle Wicks;    cost:  $0.90

Total Cost:  $30.07 per case of candles ($2.51 per candle)

Your Profit:  $77.93 per case of candles ($6.49 per candle)

These numbers are based on buying glassware by the case, wax by one case, fragrance oil by a 16oz bottle, and wicks by qty 100.  Your profits will increase if you purchase the items in larger quantities (for example, buying 160 ounces of fragrance oil).  Also, if you sell your candles in boutique retail stores the selling price is typically around $10-$13 per candle, which increases your profit to $89.93-$125.93 per case ($7.49-$10.49 per candle).

For the second example, we used a chic metal tin.  These candles are perfect for travel, home, office, as party favors, etcetera.  In researching, we found that this type of candle typically sells for $5.00 each at area craft shows and fundraisers.  The items you need to make 36 candles are as follows:

• 1 case (36 tins) 6 oz Metal Candle Tin;    cost:  $32.04
• 12 pounds NatureWax C-3 Soy Wax;    cost:  $12.96
• 18 ounces Fragrance Oil;    cost:  $22.12
• 1/2 Candle Dye Block;    cost:  $0.50
• 36 Candle Wicks;    cost:  $2.70

Total Cost:  $70.32 per case of candles ($1.95 per candle)

Your Profit:  $109.68 per case of candles ($3.05 per candle)

These numbers are based on buying tins by the case, wax by one case, fragrance oil by a 32oz bottle, and wicks by qty 100.  Your profits will increase if you purchase the items in larger quantities (for example, buying 6 cases of tins).  Also, if you sell your candles in boutique retail stores the selling price is typically around $7-$10 per candle, which increases your profit to $181.68-$289.68 per case ($5.05-$8.05 per candle).

These examples are to prove that you can still make money in the candle industry.  Keep in mind when pricing your candles that the economy is still recovering and people may not be able to loosen the purse strings on an exotic $12.00 candle.  If you buy affordable items like the ones listed above and keep your prices reasonable for all, sales may be better than you expected.

We all have days where we just don’t want to work out.  Especially when it’s gray and gloomy outside.  Here’s an interesting theory to try the next time you feel a little sluggish and want to skip out on the gym.

Sniff peppermint!

Studies have shown that the fragrance of peppermint can improve your workout and reduce the tiredness that you feel.  It also clears the head and freshens the spirit.  It’s wonderful for mental fatigue and depression.  So, get out there, waft some peppermint your way and see what a difference it can make on your outlook of going to the gym.

The “in” trends this year when it comes to home interior decorating are drawn from many different influences, styles, palettes, and cultures.  Re-purposing, recycling, reclaiming, and reusing household items and furniture are all hot trends (as well as, great for the environment!).  Instead of throwing away dingy pieces, you can create something new or revamp what you already have to give it fresh style. Turn an old thermos into a lamp or simply spruce up an old chair with leftover paint.

No matter what your project or sense of style, color is a key element of home decor.  According to interior design companies, the most popular colors for 2011 are purples of any shade, deep blues, grays, and caramels.  So go ahead, redo that nightstand, reuse the container from an old candle and refill it, or create bath and body products that match the bathroom color scheme!  The creative possibilities are endless.