Candle lovers the world over know about the unfortunate mess that accompanies every delightfully scented candle that you've ever had the pleasure of burning. What do you do with the growing collection of empty candle jars doing nothing more than collecting dust?
What you don’t do is toss them out! Those seemingly useless jars are full of potential, waiting to be reimagined and useful again.
That leftover wax is annoying. There's no way around that. Though you've likely grown accustomed to it, you don't have to. We know exactly what to do to get rid of the wax and get some use out of it as well.
Time to get familiar with repurposing those lovely jars. In no time you'll be ready t grab your favorite beverage, put on some tunes, and let's give those candle jars a second chance to shine!
You can open up a world of different possibilities when you begin to remove the box that we fit everything so comfortably into. That scented jar of yours can be repurposed!
It can be a stylish storage container for trinkets, a charming planter for succulents, or even a unique drinking glass for those fancy mocktails. How about stepping up your DIY game and making your very own custom candles—resourcefully using the leftover wax to whip up new scents and designs?
Besides, repurposing those jars is a win for you, your wallet and consequently the environment. There's no need to spend funds on new containers and you'll be reducing waste production in the process. You'll also have the satisfaction of accomplishing a DIY project all by your lonesome. Just positives everywhere!
Here are our favorite tried and true methods to get the job done
I know, I know, scrubbing away at that stubborn wax residue can feel like an endless chore. But what if I told you there's a way to remove it without lifting a finger (almost)? The hot water soak is your answer!
Simply fill your sink or a large bowl with hot (not boiling) water. Submerge the jar, leaving the top rim above water, and let it soak for a few hours. The heat works its magic, softening the wax and causing it to rise to the top. Then, it's as easy as scooping out the wax with a spoon or spatula. It's like a spa day for your candle jar!
Got a jar with just a bit of wax clinging to the bottom? The freezer trick is your new best friend. Pop that jar in the freezer overnight, and let the cold do the work. The wax will shrink and contract, making it a breeze to pop out in one solid piece.
All it takes is a little nudge with a butter knife, and voila! You've got yourself a clean jar ready for its next adventure. This method is perfect for those who are short on time and patience.
If you're dealing with a jar that's practically overflowing with wax, don't despair! The double boiler method is here to save the day. This technique might sound fancy, but it's incredibly simple.
Place the jar in a pot with a few inches of simmering water. The gentle heat will melt the wax, allowing it to float to the top for easy removal. Just be sure to keep a close eye on the jar and use oven mitts when handling it, as it can get hot!
This method is a great option for removing large amounts of wax without risking damage to your jar. Plus, it's a bit like watching a science experiment, with the wax melting and bubbling away.
Is there a stubborn bit of wax clinging to the sides or bottom of your jar? The hairdryer hack is your secret weapon. Aim a hairdryer at the wax on low heat, and watch as it melts away. Gently wipe it up with a paper towel as it melts.
This method requires a bit of patience, but it's incredibly effective for getting into those nooks and crannies that other methods might miss.
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, the oven method might be just what you need. Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (around 180°F or 80°C) and place the jar on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it heat for about 15 minutes, or until the wax is fully melted.
Once the jar has cooled, simply wipe out the melted wax with a paper towel. The oven method is great for removing large amounts of wax, but it's important to use low heat and avoid putting any jars with metal or plastic components in the oven.
For a super quick fix, the microwave can come in handy. But remember, this method is ONLY suitable for jars without any metal components, such as metal lids or wick holders.
Fill the jar with water, leaving some space at the top, and microwave it in 30-second intervals until the wax melts. The wax will float to the top, making it easy to remove once the jar has cooled.
Removing wax can be fun and surprisingly easy, but let's not get ahead of ourselves! Safety is always the top priority when dealing with hot stuff like melted wax or using appliances like hairdryers and ovens. So before you dive in, let's go over a few precautions to keep you and your precious candle jars safe and sound.
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating: always wear gloves when handling hot water or melted wax. Even if you're just using the hot water method, those jars can get surprisingly toasty.
And when it comes to melting wax with a hairdryer or double boiler, gloves are a must-have to protect your fingers from burns. Trust me, a pair of trusty kitchen gloves will be your best friend during this process!
Candles might smell amazing, but burning wax or melted wax fumes? Not so much. Some waxes, especially paraffin, can release fumes that aren't exactly the best for your lungs.
So, do yourself a favor and open a window or turn on a fan to get some fresh air flowing. This is especially important if you're using heat-based methods like the hairdryer or oven, as they can generate more fumes.
Ever poured boiling water into a cold glass, only to watch it shatter into a million pieces? Yeah, not a fun experience. The same principle applies to candle jars. Don't subject them to drastic temperature changes by pouring boiling water directly into a cold jar.
This could cause thermal shock and lead to a heartbreaking crack. Instead, start with warm water and gradually increase the temperature, or let the jar sit in hot water for a few minutes to acclimate.
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a clean candle jar (unless you're using the microwave method, but that's a story for later). Some wax removal techniques, like the hairdryer or double boiler, require a bit of time and patience.
It's tempting to try to rush the process, but trust me, it's not worth sacrificing your safety or the integrity of your jar. So take your time, put on some relaxing music, and enjoy the process.
So, you've successfully banished that stubborn wax from your candle jars – high five! But now you're probably wondering, "What do I do with all this leftover wax?"
Don't worry, friend, I wouldn't let you toss those perfectly good wax scraps into the trash. We're all about reducing waste and embracing our inner eco-warriors, right?
Here are a few creative and earth-friendly ways to give that wax a new life:
Remember those cozy campfires and crackling bonfires? Well, your leftover wax can help you relive those magical moments! Melt the wax and pour it over natural materials like pinecones, wood shavings, or even dryer lint (yes, you read that right!).
Once the wax solidifies, you've got yourself some super-efficient fire starters. They're perfect for camping trips, backyard bonfires, or simply adding a touch of ambiance to your fireplace.
Want to fill your home with your favorite fragrance without burning a full-sized candle? Wax melts are the answer! Simply melt your leftover wax, pour it into molds (silicone ice cube trays work wonders!), and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Let them cool and solidify, and you've got a collection of personalized wax melts ready to pop into your warmer. It's a simple, budget-friendly way to create a scented oasis in your home.
If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, why not try your hand at candle making? Leftover wax is a fantastic starting point for creating your own unique candles.
You can experiment with different scents, colors, and even create layered candles with a mix of waxes. It's a fun and rewarding way to unleash your creativity and make truly one-of-a-kind home decor pieces.
If you're not into crafting or have an abundance of wax, don't despair! Many communities and organizations have programs that collect and repurpose candle wax.
Do a quick search online or check with your local recycling center to see if there are any options in your area. By donating your wax, you'll be helping to reduce waste and support local initiatives.
If crafting isn't your thing, check with your local recycling center to see if they accept wax. Some communities have programs that collect and repurpose candle wax for various uses.
Now that your jar is sparkling clean, it's time for the real fun to begin! Your once-humble candle jar is a blank canvas, ready to be transformed into something functional, beautiful, or even quirky. Let's dive into a few ideas that will spark your creativity and give those jars a new lease on life.
Say goodbye to messy drawers and cluttered countertops! Repurposed candle jars make fantastic storage containers for all sorts of goodies. Think cotton balls, hair ties, makeup brushes, office supplies, or even small snacks.
Get crafty with it and personalize your jars with a fresh coat of paint, some sparkly glitter, or vibrant washi tape. Your newly organized space will thank you!
Who says you need a fancy pot to grow your favorite plants? Candle jars make adorable planters for succulents, herbs, and small flowers.
Simply add a layer of pebbles or rocks for drainage, fill the jar with potting soil, and plant your chosen greenery. It's a charming way to bring a touch of nature indoors, and your plants will love their new home.
Tall, elegant candle jars can easily double as unique drinking glasses. Imagine sipping your morning orange juice or evening iced tea from a one-of-a-kind vessel. You could even get fancy and use them for cocktails or mocktails at your next gathering.
Just remember to wash them thoroughly before using them for food or drinks.
Your candle jars have the potential to become so much more than just storage or planters. With a little creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can turn them into candle holders, vases, soap dispensers, or even miniature terrariums. Let your imagination run wild and explore the endless possibilities for these versatile vessels.
The sky's the limit! With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can give those empty candle jars a new purpose and add a touch of personality to your home.
Even with the best intentions, things don't always go as planned. But don't worry, I've got you covered! Here are a few solutions for common problems you might encounter while cleaning your candle jars:
Those pesky wick stickers can sometimes cling on for dear life! If soaking the jar in warm, soapy water doesn't quite do the trick, try gently peeling the sticker off with a plastic scraper or an old credit card. Be careful not to scratch the glass!
If your jar looks a bit hazy even after you've removed the wax, there's a simple fix for that. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, and use a soft cloth to wipe the inside of the jar. The vinegar will help dissolve any leftover residue, leaving your jar sparkling clean and crystal clear.
Accidents happen, and sometimes those beautiful candle jars might end up with a few minor scratches. Not to worry! A bit of toothpaste can work wonders. Just dab a small amount onto a soft cloth and gently buff out the scratch. It might take a few tries, but with a little patience, you can often minimize or even eliminate those unsightly marks.
Here are the most commonly asked questions regarding how you can remove wax and repurpose your candle jars:
Most glass and ceramic jars are safe for the wax removal methods mentioned in this article. However, avoid using high heat methods (like the oven or microwave) on jars with metal components or delicate decorations.
Absolutely! You can repurpose wax for fire starters, wax melts, or even new candles.
Yes, but only if the jar doesn't have any metal components. Always monitor closely and use oven mitts when handling the hot jar.
Hopefully we've given you more than enough reasons to get those empty candle jars out of your cupboard and put them to use! All you need is a little effort and creativity to transform them into something useful, news and even beautiful.
Remember, you can repurpose them for storage, decorate your home with them, or create new candles with the leftover wax. Whatever you choose to do you'll be reducing waste and adding a personal touch to your space all at the same time—two birds with one stone. The possibilities are infinite so get started today!
