After careful evaluation of cleishyscents.co.uk, We give it a Trust Score of 2.8 out of 5 stars. Navigating the world of online businesses, especially for consumers in the United Kingdom, demands a keen eye for legitimacy and transparency. Our review of cleishyscents.co.uk reveals a mixed bag of foundational elements. While the website presents itself with a clear focus on home fragrance products, including candles, diffusers, and various aroma enhancers, several crucial aspects typically found on well-established and trustworthy e-commerce platforms are notably absent or lacking. The overall impression is that of a relatively new or small-scale operation, which isn’t inherently negative, but it does raise questions regarding consumer protection and long-term reliability.
Here’s a summary of our findings:
- Business Information: Limited readily available information about the business entity itself, beyond a personal touch from “Lara x.” No clear company registration details, physical address, or extensive ‘About Us’ section. This lack of transparency can be a red flag for consumers seeking assurance about the entity they are purchasing from.
- Customer Support: No immediate visible contact number or live chat. Relying solely on potential email contact, which is not prominently displayed, can lead to frustration for customers needing urgent assistance.
- Terms and Conditions/Privacy Policy: While the site might have underlying policies, they are not easily accessible from the homepage. Trustworthy websites prominently display links to their Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, Shipping, and Returns policies, which are vital for consumer rights and understanding.
- Product Information: Products are clearly listed with prices and brief descriptions. The emphasis on handmade items is a nice touch, but detailed information on ingredients, safety standards (especially for fragranced products), and potential allergens is not immediately apparent.
- Security Features: The presence of an SSL certificate (implied by HTTPS) is a positive, ensuring basic data encryption during transactions. However, specific payment gateway information or trust badges are not overtly visible.
- User Engagement: A newsletter signup and a loyalty program are present, indicating an effort to engage customers. The blog section offers some useful content related to their products, which is a good sign for content marketing.
- Domain Registration (WHOIS): The domain was registered on 16-Nov-2022 and is set to expire on 16-Nov-2025. This relatively short registration period (compared to established businesses that register for many years) can sometimes indicate a less long-term commitment. The registrant data is validated, which is a positive.
- DNS Records: Standard DNS records are in place, including MX records pointing to Google Mail, suggesting professional email hosting.
- Certificate Transparency: The presence of 48 certificates found on crt.sh indicates regular certificate renewals, which is a good security practice.
- Blacklisting: The site is currently not blacklisted, which means it hasn’t been flagged for malicious activity.
The site’s main offering revolves around home fragrances, a category that is generally permissible and can enhance the living environment when used responsibly. From an ethical standpoint, there’s nothing overtly concerning about the products themselves, assuming they are manufactured with quality and safety in mind. However, the lack of comprehensive business information and easily accessible policies does pose a challenge for a consumer looking for complete reassurance. For a business operating in the UK, adhering to consumer protection laws requires transparency in these areas. While the intention to provide handmade scented products is commendable, the execution on the website could be significantly improved to build greater consumer confidence.
For those seeking to enhance their home environment with pleasant aromas, but perhaps looking for platforms with more established credentials or a wider range of options, consider these ethical alternatives:
- The White Company: A well-known UK brand offering a premium range of home fragrances, including candles, diffusers, and room sprays. They are renowned for their quality and sophisticated scents.
- Key Features: Wide range of luxury home fragrances, elegant design, strong brand reputation.
- Price: Mid to high-range.
- Pros: High-quality products, excellent customer service, widely trusted, clear policies.
- Cons: Higher price point.
- Jo Malone London: A global luxury brand headquartered in the UK, famous for its unique and exquisite fragrance combinations for both personal and home use.
- Key Features: Iconic scents, bespoke fragrance layering, luxurious packaging.
- Price: High-range.
- Pros: Exceptional quality, highly sought-after, strong brand presence, excellent gifting options.
- Cons: Very expensive, might be too niche for some preferences.
- Molton Brown: Another reputable UK brand offering a range of opulent bath, body, and home fragrances.
- Key Features: Distinctive and complex scents, high-quality ingredients, often inspired by global destinations.
- Price: Mid to high-range.
- Pros: Unique fragrance profiles, luxurious feel, well-established brand, clear business practices.
- Cons: Limited range compared to pure home fragrance brands.
- Neom Organics: Focuses on therapeutic essential oil blends for home fragrance, aiming to promote well-being.
- Key Features: 100% natural fragrances, ethically sourced ingredients, designed for specific well-being benefits (e.g., sleep, energy).
- **Price: Mid to high-range.
- Pros: Natural and holistic approach, strong ethical stance, effective for specific moods.
- Cons: Scents might be less conventional for some.
- Yankee Candle: A widely popular brand known for its extensive range of scented candles and home fragrance products. While not UK-based, it has a massive presence here.
- Key Features: Huge variety of scents, different product formats (jar candles, wax melts, car diffusers), often on promotion.
- Price: Affordable to mid-range.
- Pros: Accessible, diverse scent library, strong brand recognition, good value.
- Cons: Some scents can be very strong, not always seen as a ‘luxury’ brand.
- Rituals: A European brand with a strong presence in the UK, focusing on creating calming and luxurious home and body experiences.
- Key Features: Inspired by ancient Eastern traditions, luxurious and soothing scents, aesthetically pleasing packaging.
- Price: Mid-range.
- Pros: Focus on well-being and rituals, pleasant and unique scent combinations, well-regarded.
- Cons: Can be slightly pricier than mainstream options.
- Bomb Cosmetics: A UK-based brand known for its handmade bath and body products, also offering a vibrant range of home fragrances.
- Key Features: Handmade products, often brightly coloured and fun designs, focuses on natural essential oils.
- Price: Affordable.
- Pros: Good value, supports UK manufacturing, wide range of playful scents.
- Cons: Less emphasis on luxury, scents can be more playful than sophisticated.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
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IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on our research and information provided by the company. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
cleishyscents.co.uk Review & First Look
A thorough initial assessment of cleishyscents.co.uk reveals a platform that, while functional for product display and sales, lacks several critical elements that are standard for building strong consumer trust in the United Kingdom’s e-commerce landscape. The website presents a clean, minimalist design, focusing directly on its handmade scented products. However, the absence of easily discoverable, detailed company information and comprehensive policy documents raises immediate questions for any discerning online shopper. It gives the impression of a passion project rather than a fully fleshed-out commercial entity, which isn’t necessarily negative, but it means consumers need to exercise more caution.
Initial Impressions of cleishyscents.co.uk Design
Upon landing on cleishyscents.co.uk, the user is greeted with a relatively simple and straightforward layout. The navigation is intuitive, with clear categories such as “Candles,” “Home Aromas,” and “Mystery Boxes.” The product images are well-lit and appealing, showcasing the handmade nature of the items. The “Welcome” message from “Lara x” adds a personal touch, attempting to create a connection with the customer by invoking memories associated with scents. This personal branding can be a strong asset, especially for small businesses, but it needs to be complemented by professional operational transparency. The colour scheme is subdued, allowing the product visuals to take centre stage.
Missing Trust Signals on the Homepage
One of the most significant drawbacks of cleishyscents.co.uk’s homepage is the scarcity of immediate trust signals. Reputable e-commerce sites typically feature:
- Visible Business Registration Details: This includes a company registration number, registered address, and VAT number if applicable. This is a legal requirement for many businesses in the UK.
- Direct Contact Information: A phone number for urgent queries or a clearly visible email address is essential.
- Prominently Linked Policies: Links to comprehensive Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, Delivery Information, and Returns Policy are usually found in the footer or a dedicated “Information” section. Their absence or difficulty in locating them immediately suggests a potential oversight.
- Customer Reviews/Testimonials: While internal reviews might exist on product pages, external validation or a dedicated section for customer feedback on the homepage can significantly boost confidence.
- Payment Gateway Logos/Trust Badges: Displaying logos of accepted payment methods (Visa, Mastercard, PayPal) and security badges (e.g., McAfee Secure, Norton Secured) reinforces transaction security.
Clarity of Product Information and Craftsmanship
The product descriptions are concise, stating the item and its price. For instance, “Candles Geo candles £8.00” or “Vehicle Car airfreshner diffusers £7.00.” The emphasis on “handmade” items requiring “time to cure before I can ship them” provides a genuine insight into the production process, managing customer expectations regarding dispatch times. However, for scented products, crucial details like:
- Ingredient lists: What type of wax is used (soy, paraffin, beeswax)? What are the specific fragrance components?
- Allergen information: Is there anything that could trigger allergies (e.g., certain essential oils, synthetic fragrances)?
- Safety instructions: Clear guidelines for burning candles safely or using diffusers correctly.
- Scent profiles: A more detailed description of the actual scent beyond just the name, to help customers make informed choices online where they cannot smell the product.
Initial Domain Check and WHOIS Data Interpretation
A quick check of the domain’s WHOIS data indicates cleishyscents.co.uk was registered on 16th November 2022 and is set to expire on 16th November 2025. This means the domain was initially registered for a relatively short period of three years. While not an immediate red flag for fraud, established and long-term businesses often register their domains for longer durations (5-10 years) to demonstrate stability and commitment. The data validation against a third-party source by Nominet UK is a positive, confirming some level of registrant authenticity. The registrar, Realtime Register BV, is a legitimate provider. The name servers (ns1.yoursrs.com, ns2.yoursrs.com) belong to the web hosting provider, Freewebstore Ltd, which aligns with the site’s stated “Freewebstore” affiliation. M2meventshire.co.uk Review
Overall First Look Summary
In essence, cleishyscents.co.uk appears to be a legitimate, albeit nascent, e-commerce venture focused on handmade scents. The passion for the product is evident, but the platform’s professional presentation falls short in areas critical for building trust with a UK consumer base accustomed to high standards of transparency and detailed consumer protection information. While the products themselves are permissible, the operational transparency needs significant enhancement to compete effectively and gain full consumer confidence. It’s a shop that needs to mature in its digital presence to truly thrive.
cleishyscents.co.uk Missing Features
When evaluating an e-commerce platform in the United Kingdom, particularly one selling consumer goods, the presence of certain features is not just a matter of convenience but often one of compliance and consumer expectation. cleishyscents.co.uk, in its current state, is missing several key features that would significantly enhance its legitimacy, user experience, and overall trustworthiness. These omissions can lead to a less than ideal shopping experience and deter potential customers who prioritise transparency and robust support.
Lack of Comprehensive Legal Information
One of the most glaring omissions is the easily accessible and detailed legal framework typically found on UK e-commerce sites.
- Terms and Conditions of Sale: These documents outline the contractual agreement between the seller and the buyer, covering aspects like order processing, payment, and disclaimers. Their absence makes the legal standing of a transaction unclear. For instance, what are the specific conditions for a sale to be considered final?
- Privacy Policy: Essential for informing users how their personal data is collected, used, and protected, in line with GDPR requirements. Without this, customers have no clear understanding of their data rights.
- Refund and Returns Policy: Crucial for consumer confidence, this policy should clearly state the conditions under which products can be returned, the timeframe for returns, who pays for return shipping, and how refunds are processed. The Consumer Rights Act 2015 provides strong protections, and a clear policy demonstrates adherence.
- Shipping/Delivery Policy: Information on shipping costs, estimated delivery times, and methods (e.g., Royal Mail, DPD) is vital for customers to manage expectations. Are there options for expedited shipping? Is international shipping available?
Limited Customer Support Channels
Effective customer support is a cornerstone of a reliable online business. cleishyscents.co.uk primarily offers a passive communication channel, which can be insufficient for many customer needs.
- No Visible Phone Number: For urgent queries, particularly regarding order issues or product defects, a direct phone line is invaluable. The absence of one can lead to customer frustration and a perception of inaccessibility. A study by BT found that 70% of customers prefer to speak to a real person.
- No Live Chat Support: Real-time chat functionality allows for quick resolution of minor issues and questions, significantly improving the customer experience. This is especially important for pre-purchase queries that can influence a buying decision.
- Unclear Email Support: While an email address is usually an option, it’s not prominently displayed, requiring customers to search or assume one exists. A dedicated “Contact Us” page with all available channels clearly listed is standard practice.
Absence of Detailed Product Specifications
While product images and brief descriptions are present, the lack of in-depth specifications for home fragrance items is a significant oversight. Millarchitects.co.uk Review
- Ingredient Disclosure: For candles, diffusers, and sprays, customers need to know the type of wax (e.g., soy, paraffin, beeswax), the concentration of fragrance oils, and any potential allergens. This is particularly important for consumers with sensitivities or specific ethical preferences (e.g., vegan-friendly products).
- Safety Information: Candles, in particular, come with safety guidelines (e.g., burn time limits, trimming wicks, placement away from drafts). These should be clearly stated on product pages or accompanying documentation.
- Usage Instructions: How to best use a hoover disc, wax melt, or diffuser for optimal performance and longevity should be readily available on product pages, not just buried in a blog post.
- Scent Descriptions: Beyond simple names, detailed scent notes (top, middle, base) would help customers imagine the aroma more accurately, reducing disappointment. For example, describing a “cleaning” scent as “fresh lemon, eucalyptus, and a hint of pine” is far more helpful than just “cleaning.”
Insufficient Business Transparency
For consumers in the UK, transparency about the business entity itself is crucial for trust and accountability.
- Company Registration Details: A registered company in the UK should display its company registration number, and if applicable, its VAT number. This provides legal legitimacy and allows consumers to verify the business with Companies House.
- Physical Business Address: Even if it’s an online-only operation, a registered business address or a postal address for correspondence adds credibility. This also ensures compliance with UK e-commerce regulations, which often require traders to provide geographical addresses.
- “About Us” Page: A comprehensive “About Us” section that details the brand’s story, mission, and the people behind it (e.g., Lara x) can build a stronger emotional connection and trust. It’s a chance to convey values and expertise.
Limited Payment Options and Security Indicators
While the site likely uses secure payment processing via its e-commerce platform, the visible indicators are minimal.
- Visible Payment Logos: Displaying logos of major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) and alternative payment methods like PayPal instils confidence.
- Trust Seals: Third-party security badges (e.g., SSL certificates, PCI DSS compliance) prominently displayed can reassure customers about the security of their transactions. While SSL is implied by HTTPS, a visual seal can reinforce this.
- Guest Checkout Option: While not explicitly missing from the homepage, the option for guest checkout without forced registration can improve conversion rates, as 28% of shoppers abandon carts due to forced account creation.
The accumulation of these missing features suggests that cleishyscents.co.uk has room for substantial improvement in its online presence to meet the expectations and regulatory requirements of the UK e-commerce market. Addressing these gaps would not only enhance trust but also streamline the customer journey, making it a more attractive and reliable destination for home fragrance purchases.
cleishyscents.co.uk Pros & Cons
Every online business, regardless of its size or niche, comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. For cleishyscents.co.uk, a review highlights several positive aspects that could appeal to certain customers, primarily those seeking handmade, artisanal products. However, these pros are currently overshadowed by significant cons, particularly regarding operational transparency and customer assurances, which are critical for building long-term trust in the competitive UK e-commerce landscape.
Advantages of cleishyscents.co.uk
Focus on Handmade and Artisan Products
The most notable advantage of cleishyscents.co.uk is its clear emphasis on handmade items. Theuniit.co.uk Review
- Unique Selling Proposition: In a market flooded with mass-produced goods, the “handmade” label instantly sets it apart. The message “Hope you love them as much as I love making them! Just remember they’re all handmade and need time to cure before I can ship them” strongly conveys this.
- Personal Touch: The presence of “Lara x” in the welcome message adds a personal, relatable element, suggesting a small business with a dedicated crafter behind it. This can appeal to customers who prefer supporting independent artisans.
- Potential for Customisation: While not explicitly stated for all products, bespoke items like “Bespoke Candles” hint at the possibility of personalised orders, a significant draw for gifts or specific home decor needs.
Niche Focus on Home Fragrances
Specialising in home aromas allows for a focused product range and expertise.
- Clear Product Categories: The site’s categories (Candles, Vehicle Air Fresheners, Carpet Fresheners, Room Sprays) are well-defined, making it easy for customers to find specific types of home fragrance products.
- Targeted Audience: The niche appeals directly to individuals passionate about creating a specific ambiance in their homes, offering a curated selection rather than an overwhelming variety.
- Relevant Blog Content: The blog posts on “What Are Reed Diffusers?”, “Storing your wax melts,” and “How to use a hoover disc” demonstrate product knowledge and offer useful advice, adding value for customers interested in these specific items.
Loyalty Programme
The presence of a loyalty points system is a positive feature for customer retention.
- Incentivises Repeat Purchases: “Points mean prizes!” and “Money off!” encourage customers to return for future purchases, fostering loyalty.
- Welcome Gift and Review Incentives: Earning points for signing up and writing reviews are smart ways to engage new customers and gather valuable feedback.
- Customer Engagement: Loyalty programs create a sense of community and appreciation for returning customers.
Disadvantages of cleishyscents.co.uk
Lack of Essential Business and Legal Information
This is the most critical area of concern, undermining overall trust.
- Absence of Company Registration Details: No company number, registered address, or VAT number (if applicable) is visible. In the UK, transparency regarding the legal entity behind an online store is crucial for consumer protection and legal compliance. Without this, customers cannot easily verify the business’s legitimacy.
- Missing or Hard-to-Find Policies: There are no prominent links to crucial documents like Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, Shipping Information, or a comprehensive Returns and Refund Policy. This leaves customers uninformed about their rights and obligations, which is a major red flag, especially under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
- Limited Contact Options: The absence of a visible phone number or live chat makes it difficult for customers to get immediate support for urgent queries. This can lead to frustration and a perception of poor customer service.
Incomplete Product Information
While the “handmade” aspect is highlighted, detailed product information is lacking.
- No Ingredient Lists: For scented products, knowing the type of wax (e.g., soy, paraffin), specific fragrance components, and potential allergens is crucial for health and ethical reasons. This information should be readily available on each product page.
- Lack of Safety Guidelines: Candles, in particular, require clear safety instructions (e.g., never leave unattended, trim wick). These are not prominently displayed, which could pose a safety risk if not adequately communicated elsewhere.
- Vague Scent Descriptions: Descriptions like “Cleaning” Scented Tealight Box are too generic. Detailed scent notes (e.g., citrus, floral, woody) would help customers make more informed decisions when buying online.
Website Technical and Trust Issues
Beyond legal and product specifics, some technical aspects contribute to a weaker trust score. Therhk.co.uk Review
- Relatively Short Domain Registration: A three-year domain registration period (registered 2022, expires 2025) is relatively short for an established business and could be perceived as a lack of long-term commitment.
- No Visible Trust Seals/Payment Logos: While the site likely processes payments securely, the absence of prominent payment gateway logos (e.g., Visa, MasterCard, PayPal) or third-party security badges (e.g., McAfee Secure, Norton Secured) can reduce consumer confidence during checkout.
- Limited Customer Reviews/Social Proof: While the loyalty program encourages reviews, prominent display of customer testimonials or external review platforms (like Trustpilot) would significantly enhance credibility.
In summary, cleishyscents.co.uk has the potential to be a charming small business, leveraging the appeal of handmade products. However, its current online presentation significantly falls short in areas of transparency, legal compliance, and customer support. Addressing these critical ‘cons’ would be vital for its growth and for building a genuinely trustworthy reputation in the UK market.
Is cleishyscents.co.uk Legit?
The question of legitimacy for any online business is paramount, especially in a digital landscape where trust is easily eroded. When assessing cleishyscents.co.uk’s legitimacy, we find a mixed picture. While there are indicators that suggest it’s not an outright scam, the lack of transparency and crucial legal information prevents it from being confidently labelled as a fully legitimate and trustworthy e-commerce entity in the eyes of a discerning UK consumer. It appears to be an earnest attempt at selling products online, but it falls short on established professional standards.
Indicators of Potential Legitimacy
Several factors lean towards cleishyscents.co.uk being a real, albeit unpolished, business:
- WHOIS Data: The domain’s WHOIS information is publicly available and shows that the registrant data was validated by Nominet UK. This means the name and address provided by the registrant were matched against a third-party data source, indicating a real individual or entity behind the registration. The domain has been registered since November 2022.
- Active Website Content: The website features detailed product listings, a functioning shopping cart, and regular blog posts. This shows ongoing effort and maintenance, which is typical of a genuine business. The blog posts themselves, like “What Are Reed Diffusers?” or “Storing your wax melts,” indicate a focus on providing value and information related to their products.
- Loyalty Program: The presence of a loyalty program (“Loyalty Points points,” “Ways to earn Welcome gift Write a review Cashback Newsletter signup”) suggests an attempt to build a lasting customer base and encourage repeat business, a characteristic of legitimate long-term ventures.
- Secure Connection (HTTPS): The website uses HTTPS, indicated by the padlock icon in the browser, which means any data exchanged between the user and the site (e.g., payment details) is encrypted. This is a basic but essential security feature for any online store.
- No Blacklisting: As per our domain report, cleishyscents.co.uk is currently not blacklisted, meaning it hasn’t been flagged by security services or search engines for malicious activity, phishing, or other fraudulent practices.
Factors Raising Legitimacy Concerns
Despite the above, several significant omissions prevent a full endorsement of its legitimacy and trustworthiness:
- Absence of Business Registration Details: This is a major red flag. For a business operating in the UK, especially one selling goods, having clear company registration details (Company House number, registered address) publicly displayed is often a legal requirement and always a strong trust signal. Without this, consumers cannot verify the legal entity they are dealing with. Data from the UK government’s Companies House shows that over 4.8 million companies were registered in the UK as of March 2023, and public access to their details is a cornerstone of business transparency.
- Lack of Accessible Legal Policies: The immediate absence of prominent links to a detailed Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and comprehensive Returns & Refund Policy is highly concerning. These policies are not just formalities; they protect both the consumer and the business by outlining rights, obligations, and dispute resolution processes. Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, businesses must provide clear information about the goods and services, including cancellation rights and return policies.
- Limited Contact Information: Relying primarily on an implied email address (not explicitly listed or linked on the homepage) and lacking a phone number or live chat hinders customer support and transparency. Legitimate businesses want to be easily contactable.
- Generic Hosting Platform: While Freewebstore is a legitimate e-commerce platform provider, its use might suggest a very basic setup, which isn’t inherently negative but often means less customisation or advanced features for consumer trust.
- Vague Product Information: As previously discussed, the lack of detailed ingredient lists, safety warnings, and comprehensive scent profiles can detract from professional legitimacy. Consumers expect full disclosure, especially for products used in the home.
Conclusion on Legitimacy
cleishyscents.co.uk appears to be a genuine attempt at an online business selling handmade scented products, rather than an outright scam operation. The presence of physical products, an active blog, and a loyalty program suggests genuine commercial intent. However, its legitimacy is severely undermined by its significant deficiencies in providing essential business transparency and clear legal policies, which are expected standards for any e-commerce entity operating in the United Kingdom. For a consumer to fully trust and confidently purchase from this site, these foundational elements would need to be addressed comprehensively. Without them, it operates in a grey area where consumer protection and clear expectations are compromised. Braines.co.uk Review
cleishyscents.co.uk Pricing
Understanding the pricing structure of an online store is crucial for consumers to assess value and make informed purchasing decisions. For cleishyscents.co.uk, the pricing for its range of handmade scented products appears to be competitive within the artisan home fragrance market in the UK, generally sitting in the affordable to mid-range segment. However, the lack of broader context, such as product sizes, exact ingredient quality, or detailed burn times for candles, makes a precise value comparison somewhat challenging.
Overview of Product Pricing
The homepage of cleishyscents.co.uk lists several products with their individual prices, providing an immediate glimpse into the cost of their offerings:
- Candles:
- Geo candles: £8.00
- Bespoke Candles: £10.00
- Tealight Box “Cleaning” Scented: £7.00
- Bee Candle: £8.00
- VW Camper Van Candle: £8.00
- Diffusers/Air Fresheners:
- Vehicle Car airfreshner diffusers: £7.00
- Home Aromas:
- Carpet freshener: £1.50
- Room sprays 100mls: £6.00
- Soap Sponges:
- Soap Scrub sponges: £6.50
- Mystery Items:
- Mystery boxes: £10.00
- Other:
- Artisan Celebration Benches: £6.50 (This item appears to be an outlier from the fragrance category, possibly a gift item or a decorative piece for candles.)
Price Competitiveness in the UK Market
Compared to larger, established brands like Yankee Candle or The White Company, cleishyscents.co.uk offers products at a lower price point. For instance:
- Yankee Candle: Small jar candles typically start from £8-£10, with medium and large jars going up to £20-£30. Wax melts are around £2.
- The White Company: Standard candles often start from £20-£30, with diffusers in a similar range.
- Independent Artisans: Many independent candle makers on platforms like Etsy or at local markets sell candles in the £10-£25 range, depending on size, wax type, and complexity.
Cleishyscents.co.uk’s prices, such as £8 for a “Geo candle” or £1.50 for “Carpet freshener,” position it as an accessible option for budget-conscious consumers or those looking for smaller, unique gifts. The £10 “Mystery boxes” also offer a value proposition for those who enjoy a surprise element.
Factors Affecting Perceived Value
While the prices seem reasonable, the lack of detailed product information impacts the perceived value. Andromedasolutions.co.uk Review
- Size and Burn Time: For candles, knowing the net weight in grams and the estimated burn time (e.g., “up to 20 hours”) is critical for comparing value. A £8 candle burning for 10 hours has different value than one burning for 40 hours.
- Ingredient Quality: The type of wax (e.g., soy wax, beeswax, paraffin) and the quality/concentration of fragrance oils significantly affect cost and performance. Higher-quality, more sustainable ingredients often command a higher price. Without this detail, it’s hard to judge if the price reflects the material cost.
- Longevity of Scents: For diffusers, sprays, and wax melts, information on how long the scent typically lasts (e.g., “diffuses for 3-4 weeks,” “wax melt lasts for 8-10 hours of burn time”) is essential for value assessment. The blog post “How long do they last/ Why do wax melts lose their smell?” attempts to address this but lacks specific product longevity data.
Payment Methods and Loyalty Programme Impact
The site likely accepts standard card payments via its Freewebstore platform. The loyalty program, offering “Money off!” for accumulated points, provides an indirect pricing benefit for repeat customers. This can effectively lower the long-term cost for loyal shoppers, enhancing the overall value proposition.
- Ways to Earn Points: Welcome gift, writing a review, cashback, newsletter signup. These are common incentives that can lead to discounts.
- Ways to Redeem: Primarily “Money off!” suggests direct discounts on future purchases, which is straightforward and appealing.
In conclusion, cleishyscents.co.uk offers competitively priced handmade home fragrance products, making them an affordable choice in the UK market. However, to truly justify its pricing and allow consumers to make fully informed decisions, greater transparency on product specifications—such as size, ingredients, and performance metrics—is highly recommended. This would not only enhance the perceived value but also build greater trust with its customer base.
cleishyscents.co.uk vs. Established UK Home Fragrance Retailers
When an aspiring online business like cleishyscents.co.uk enters the market, it inevitably invites comparison with established players. In the UK home fragrance sector, giants like The White Company, Jo Malone London, and Yankee Candle dominate, offering benchmarks for product quality, customer service, and overall shopping experience. While cleishyscents.co.uk clearly occupies a different niche (handmade, artisan), a comparison highlights where it stands out and, more importantly, where it needs significant improvement to build consumer trust and compete effectively.
Business Model and Niche
- cleishyscents.co.uk: Operates as a small, independent online retailer focusing on handmade and artisan home fragrance products. Its appeal lies in the personal touch and unique, crafted items. The pricing suggests an affordable-to-mid-range market.
- The White Company: A luxury lifestyle brand offering a wide range of home goods, including premium home fragrances. Known for its elegant, minimalist aesthetic and high-quality, often subtle scents. Targets a more affluent demographic.
- Jo Malone London: A global luxury fragrance house specialising in sophisticated, unique, and often layered scents for both personal and home use. Positions itself as aspirational and high-end.
- Yankee Candle: A mass-market brand known for its extensive range of intensely scented candles and home fragrance accessories. Focuses on variety, seasonal scents, and accessibility across various price points.
Transparency and Trust Signals
This is where cleishyscents.co.uk faces its biggest challenge compared to established retailers.
- cleishyscents.co.uk:
- Pros: Personal touch from “Lara x,” active blog, loyalty program, HTTPS security.
- Cons: Major deficiency in legal and business transparency. No readily visible company registration details, physical address, or comprehensive, easily accessible Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, or Returns Policy. Limited customer support options (no phone, no live chat).
- Established Retailers (The White Company, Jo Malone, Yankee Candle):
- Pros: Excellent transparency. Prominently display full company details (registration, VAT numbers), comprehensive legal policies (T&Cs, Privacy, Delivery, Returns) readily accessible from every page. Multiple, clearly advertised contact channels (phone, email, live chat). Strong brand recognition and established reputations built over years, often with physical stores. Publicly available customer reviews (e.g., Trustpilot scores).
Product Information and Quality Assurance
- cleishyscents.co.uk:
- Pros: Handmade appeal, specific products like “Mystery boxes” offer novelty.
- Cons: Lacks detailed product specifications. No clear ingredient lists (e.g., wax type, fragrance components), no allergen information, no specific burn times or longevity details for scent products. Safety instructions are not prominently displayed.
- Established Retailers:
- Pros: Extensive product information. Detailed ingredient lists, clear safety guidelines, specific burn times for candles, comprehensive scent descriptions with notes. Adherence to industry standards and safety regulations (e.g., CLP labelling for candles). Strong quality control processes.
- Cons: Less emphasis on individual “handmade” appeal; products are mass-produced.
Pricing and Value Proposition
- cleishyscents.co.uk:
- Pricing: Affordable to mid-range (£1.50 – £10).
- Value: Offers unique, handmade items at accessible prices, appealing to those seeking artisanal products or smaller gifts. Loyalty program adds long-term value for repeat customers.
- Established Retailers:
- Pricing: Yankee Candle (affordable to mid-range, £2-£30+), The White Company & Jo Malone (premium to luxury, £20-£100+).
- Value: Justify higher prices with perceived luxury, brand prestige, consistent quality, extensive research & development into unique fragrances, and superior customer service.
Customer Experience and Support
- cleishyscents.co.uk:
- Experience: Simple, straightforward navigation. Personal touch. Blog offers helpful tips.
- Support: Limited to presumed email contact. No immediate assistance for urgent queries.
- Established Retailers:
- Experience: Professional, polished websites. Seamless navigation, high-quality visuals, often robust search functions and curated content. Excellent omnichannel experiences (online, in-store, customer service).
- Support: Multi-channel support (phone, email, live chat, social media), dedicated customer service teams, clear FAQs, easy returns/exchanges.
Conclusion: Cleishyscents.co.uk’s strength lies in its niche as a handmade artisan producer, offering personal connection and unique products at accessible prices. However, it trails significantly behind established UK home fragrance retailers in critical areas of business transparency, legal compliance, detailed product information, and robust customer support. To truly compete and gain widespread consumer trust, cleishyscents.co.uk must dramatically enhance its professional presentation by providing comprehensive legal policies, clear business details, and more accessible customer service channels. Until then, it remains a charming small venture with considerable room for improvement in meeting the expected standards of the UK e-commerce market. A1cars.co.uk Review
How to Elevate Trust for cleishyscents.co.uk
For cleishyscents.co.uk to move from a well-intentioned, basic online store to a truly trustworthy and reputable e-commerce presence in the UK, significant strategic improvements are required. Building trust online is not merely about having a secure website; it encompasses transparency, robust customer service, clear communication, and adherence to legal standards. These are the pillars that can transform cleishyscents.co.uk into a reliable destination for home fragrance enthusiasts.
Implement Comprehensive Legal and Business Transparency
This is the single most critical area for improvement. Without these foundational elements, consumer trust will remain low.
- Create Dedicated Legal Policy Pages:
- Terms & Conditions: A detailed document covering sales terms, payment, order cancellation, and dispute resolution. This provides a legal framework for all transactions.
- Privacy Policy: Clearly outline what personal data is collected, how it’s used, stored, and protected, and the user’s rights under GDPR. This is a legal requirement in the UK and EU.
- Shipping & Delivery Policy: Specify delivery times, costs (flat rate, weight-based, free shipping thresholds), carriers used, and how to track orders. Transparency here manages customer expectations. A study by Statista in 2023 showed that unclear shipping costs are a top reason for cart abandonment.
- Returns & Refund Policy: Explicitly state the conditions for returns (e.g., within 14 days of receipt), whether original packaging is required, who covers return shipping, and the refund process and timeframe. Adherence to the Consumer Rights Act 2015 is vital.
- Display Full Business Details:
- Company Registration Number: If registered with Companies House, prominently display the registration number.
- Registered Address: Provide the legal registered address of the business.
- VAT Number: If VAT registered, display the VAT number.
- Dedicated “About Us” Page: Go beyond “Lara x” and share the business’s full story, mission, and values. This humanises the brand and builds connection.
Enhance Customer Support Accessibility
Making it easy for customers to get help is fundamental to trust and satisfaction.
- Provide Multiple Contact Channels:
- Phone Number: A dedicated UK phone number for customer service, especially for urgent queries.
- Live Chat: Implement a live chat feature for real-time assistance during business hours. This offers immediate solutions and reduces customer frustration.
- Clear Email Address: Ensure a professional email address (e.g., [email protected]) is prominently displayed on a dedicated “Contact Us” page, along with typical response times.
- Develop a Comprehensive FAQ Section: Address common questions related to orders, shipping, returns, product usage, and troubleshooting. This empowers customers to find answers independently.
Improve Product Information and Safety Disclosure
For scented products, detailed information is not just helpful, it’s often a safety and compliance issue.
- Detailed Ingredient Lists: For every product, clearly list all ingredients, including wax type (e.g., 100% soy wax, beeswax blend), fragrance oils (e.g., essential oil blend, synthetic fragrance oils), and any other components.
- Allergen Warnings: Clearly state any potential allergens in the product.
- Safety Instructions: For candles, provide prominent warnings and safety guidelines (e.g., “Burn within sight,” “Keep away from flammable items,” “Trim wick to 5mm before each burn,” “Do not burn for more than 4 hours at a time”). This is a legal requirement under consumer product safety regulations.
- Specific Product Metrics: Provide quantitative data where relevant:
- Candles: Net weight (g/oz), estimated burn time (hours).
- Diffusers: Volume (ml), estimated diffusion time.
- Wax Melts: Weight, estimated scent throw duration per piece.
- Rich Scent Descriptions: Go beyond generic labels. Use evocative language and describe top, middle, and base notes to help customers visualise the scent experience (e.g., “A crisp, invigorating blend of Sicilian lemon, fresh eucalyptus, and a hint of warm cedarwood”).
Build and Display Social Proof
Real customer feedback is a powerful trust builder. Icee-ev.co.uk Review
- Implement a Review System: Encourage customers to leave reviews on product pages and prominently display these reviews. Consider integrating with independent review platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews and display overall ratings on the homepage. Statistics show that 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.
- Showcase Testimonials: Feature positive testimonials prominently on key pages.
- Active Social Media Presence: Maintain active profiles on relevant platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook) showcasing products, behind-the-scenes content, and engaging with customers. Links to these profiles should be visible on the website.
Enhance Website Professionalism
Minor tweaks can significantly impact perception.
- Professional Email: Ensure all correspondence comes from a professional domain-based email address.
- Clear Call-to-Actions: Ensure all buttons and links are clear and guide the user effectively.
- Consistent Branding: Maintain a consistent visual identity across the website and any social media channels.
- Consider a Stronger “Why Buy From Us” Section: Articulate the unique benefits of choosing cleishyscents.co.uk over competitors, beyond just “handmade.”
By systematically addressing these areas, cleishyscents.co.uk can transform its online presence, elevate its trust score, and position itself as a credible and reliable choice for consumers in the UK home fragrance market. This investment in transparency and customer assurance will not only lead to higher conversion rates but also foster genuine customer loyalty.
cleishyscents.co.uk FAQ
How can I contact cleishyscents.co.uk customer service?
Currently, direct contact options are limited on cleishyscents.co.uk. A phone number or live chat is not prominently displayed on the homepage. Customers might need to search for an email address, which is typically found on a ‘Contact Us’ page, if available, or implicitly through transactional emails.
Does cleishyscents.co.uk ship internationally?
The website does not explicitly state its shipping policies or whether international shipping is available. Typically, e-commerce sites display this information in a dedicated ‘Shipping & Delivery’ policy page, which is not readily accessible from the cleishyscents.co.uk homepage.
What types of products does cleishyscents.co.uk offer?
cleishyscents.co.uk specialises in handmade home fragrance products. Their offerings include various types of candles (Geo candles, Bespoke Candles, Tealight Boxes), car air freshener diffusers, carpet fresheners, room sprays, and soap scrub sponges. They also offer “Mystery boxes.” Palatineconsultancy.co.uk Review
Are cleishyscents.co.uk products genuinely handmade?
Yes, the website explicitly states that its products are “all handmade” by “Lara x.” It also mentions that handmade items “need time to cure before I can ship them,” reinforcing the artisanal nature of the products.
Is cleishyscents.co.uk a legitimate business?
Based on our review, cleishyscents.co.uk appears to be a genuine attempt at an online business rather than an outright scam. The domain details are validated, and the site is active with products and a blog. However, its legitimacy is hampered by a significant lack of business transparency and easily accessible legal policies, which are standard for trustworthy UK e-commerce sites.
Where can I find the Terms and Conditions for cleishyscents.co.uk?
The Terms and Conditions are not prominently linked or easily found on the cleishyscents.co.uk homepage. This is a significant area of concern, as these legal documents are crucial for defining the terms of sale and consumer rights.
What is the return policy for cleishyscents.co.uk?
A clear and comprehensive return and refund policy is not readily available on the cleishyscents.co.uk homepage. Customers would need to contact customer service directly to understand their options for returns or refunds.
What payment methods does cleishyscents.co.uk accept?
While not explicitly displayed on the homepage with trust badges, it is expected that cleishyscents.co.uk, being on the Freewebstore platform, accepts standard payment methods like major credit/debit cards. Confirmation of specific payment methods would typically be seen during the checkout process. Cornishwhispers.co.uk Review
Does cleishyscents.co.uk have a loyalty program?
Yes, cleishyscents.co.uk features a “Loyalty Program” where customers can earn “Loyalty Points” for actions such as registering, writing reviews, and newsletter sign-ups. These points can then be redeemed for “Money off!” future purchases.
How long does it take for cleishyscents.co.uk products to ship?
The website mentions that handmade products “need time to cure before I can ship them,” implying a processing time before dispatch. However, specific shipping durations or estimated delivery times are not detailed on the homepage.
Are the ingredients in cleishyscents.co.uk candles and diffusers disclosed?
Detailed ingredient lists for candles, diffusers, and other scented products are not readily available on the product pages or elsewhere on the homepage. This makes it difficult for consumers to assess product composition, potential allergens, or safety information.
Can I find customer reviews for cleishyscents.co.uk products?
While the loyalty program incentivises customers to “Write a review,” it’s not immediately clear where these reviews are displayed or if there are external review platforms integrated with the website. Strong customer reviews are important for building trust.
Is my personal data safe with cleishyscents.co.uk?
The website uses HTTPS, indicating that data transmitted between your browser and the site is encrypted. However, a clearly accessible Privacy Policy outlining how personal data is collected, used, stored, and protected (in line with GDPR) is not prominently displayed. Codeelectrical.co.uk Review
What is a “Mystery Box” from cleishyscents.co.uk?
A “Mystery box” from cleishyscents.co.uk is a product offered at £10.00, which presumably contains a selection of their scented items, offering a surprise element to the purchase. The exact contents would be unknown until received.
Are there any safety warnings or instructions for cleishyscents.co.uk candles?
Specific safety warnings or burning instructions for candles are not prominently displayed on the product pages or homepage. For consumer safety, it is highly recommended that such information be clearly provided with each candle product.
How do cleishyscents.co.uk prices compare to other UK home fragrance brands?
cleishyscents.co.uk products are generally priced in the affordable to mid-range segment, making them more accessible than luxury brands like Jo Malone London or The White Company, and comparable to or slightly lower than some items from mainstream brands like Yankee Candle, especially considering the handmade aspect.
Does cleishyscents.co.uk have a physical store?
The website does not provide any information about a physical store location. It appears to operate solely as an online e-commerce business.
How can I get discounts from cleishyscents.co.uk?
You can receive discounts by signing up for their newsletter, as they randomly select a monthly winner for a discount. Additionally, their loyalty program allows you to earn points that can be redeemed for money off future purchases. Alexdd.co.uk Review
Is the cleishyscents.co.uk domain registered for a long period?
The domain cleishyscents.co.uk was registered on 16th November 2022 and is set to expire on 16th November 2025. This is a relatively short registration period (3 years), which can sometimes be perceived as a lack of long-term commitment compared to more established businesses.
Why is detailed business information important for an online store like cleishyscents.co.uk?
Detailed business information, such as company registration numbers, physical addresses, and comprehensive legal policies (T&Cs, Privacy, Returns), is crucial for building consumer trust and demonstrating legitimacy. It allows customers to verify the business, understand their rights, and provides avenues for dispute resolution, which are essential under UK consumer protection laws.
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