How to Reuse Candle Jars

Don’t throw away used candle containers that have chunks of old wax trapped in them. It’s a quick and simple technique to get those containers spotless. We will go through some ways on how to reuse candle jars.

Simply bake the containers on low heat until the wax falls out on its own. This is significantly more cost-effective and waste-free. It is because you don’t have to buy new containers every time you want to undertake a candle-making endeavor. 

how to reuse candle jars

You may also save containers that match your design, repurposing them into vases, little storage jars, and other items. Furthermore, these containers should be so clean that you could give them away as presents. 

 

How to Reuse Candle Jars

 

Equipment and Tools Needed:

  • Spoon and/or butter knife
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking pan
  • Oven mitts
  • Paper towels

Materials Needed:

  • Old candle container(s)

 

Steps on How to Reuse Candle Jars

 

Step#1: Scoop out as much wax as you can.

First, try to manually remove as much of the old wax from the jar as possible. Because most store-bought container candles utilize soft wax mixtures. You should be able to pull a lot of it out with only a spoon. 

A butter knife can be used to gently chip away the wax from harder sections. You may also freeze the candle jar for about an hour to assist detach the wax from the container. Repeat this technique for each candle container you’re cleaning.

Alternative Ways on Removing Wax

Hot water is used to remove candle wax.

This strategy works well with candles that have a large opening. Place your used candle on a safe surface, such as a dish towel or a potholder. Boil enough water to fill the candle jar, then pour into it, leaving an inch at the top. 

The water will melt the candle wax, causing it to float to the container’s surface. Allow the wax to cool fully before removing it. With the sink drain turned off, strain the water and any lingering candle fragments. 

Throw away the wax or store it for future projects. Before removing the drain stopper, make sure that any wax remains are removed from the sink, as wax can clog a drain. Allowing the jar to soak in warm water is another method for removing excess wax from a candle jar. 

Install a drain stopper and fill your sink halfway with warm water. If the candle jar has a lid, remove it and place it in the sink for 30 minutes. The water will dissolve the wax in the bottom of the container, making it easier to remove. 

 

Place it in the freezer.

Freezing, which reduces the wax, is another reliable way of removing candle wax. Begin by putting an empty candle jar in the freezer overnight. Take the container out of the freezer and turn it upside down in the morning.

The lump of wax should drop straight out. If it doesn’t, use a spoon or butter knife. Raise and remove the wax by pressing down on one corner.

 

Make use of your hairdryer.

Candle wax is frequently removed off carpet using a hairdryer. They can also be used to soften the wax in a wasted candle so that it can be removed. Begin by wrapping an oven mitt around your candle. 

Reheat up a hairdryer and use it to warm the candle’s wax from the sides and bottom. Lift or scrape the wax out of the container with a butter knife after it is soft to the touch. It is also a good alternative to how to reuse candle jars.

 

Step#2: Place the candle containers on a baking sheet.

Line a baking sheet or cookie sheet with one to two sheets of parchment paper. This will absorb the wax. Then, on top of the parchment paper, place all of the candle containers you’re cleaning upside down. 

 

Step#3: Place the candle holders in the oven.

Preheat your oven to 180 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit and place your baking pan with the candle containers inside. Bake them for 10 to 15 minutes at 350°F. If you used scented wax in your candle containers, enjoy the fragrances that come from your oven.

Then, while using oven mitts, carefully remove the baking pan from the oven. Inspect the insides of the containers. Put the containers back in the oven for a few minutes if there is still some wax that hasn’t melted. 

 

Step#4: Remove the candle containers from the oven.

Remove the candle containers from the oven once nearly all of the wax has melted. Then, run onto the parchment paper. Wearing oven gloves, place the baking pan on a heat-safe surface.

 

Step#5: Empty the candle containers.

Clean out any residual wax while the candle containers are still warm. Wipe the interior of each container with paper towels to remove wax, soot, and burned wick fragments. Wipe the exterior and bottom of the container to remove any wax drips or debris.

While wiping, properly check the candle container for any chips, cracks, or other flaws. When the jar is heated, little hairline fractures may appear. If you notice a crack, sadly, it implies the container isn’t worth reusing because it might be dangerous with a lit candle inside.

 

Step#6: Allow the candle containers to cool.

Finally, allow your candle containers to cool before refilling with wax or using them for other purposes. After each container has cooled, inspect it again for flaws. If it’s in decent condition, it can be used as a container candle.

 

Conclusion on How to Reuse Candle Jars

This article sums up the ways on how to reuse candle jars. You don’t have to throw away your candle jars after you use them. You can remove the wax from the old container and still safely use them. This housekeeping tip can save you a lot of money on candle jars.

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