Some wonder why removing wax from a candle holder, but when you see these cute pots and jars, all questions disappear completely. Also, the issue of how to remove wax from glass candle holder is relevant for the owners of chic interior chandelier. Look, here are a few options, choose a practical solution to suit you.
What’s the Problem to Remove Candle Wax
If your favorite scented candles have come to an end, their containers can still serve you for a long time. There is always a way to recycle a candle past the long haul, while its jar can get a second life as flowerpots or vases.
Removing wax from a candle jar can be a challenge, but it’s essential to do so to reuse the container or to prevent waxy buildup. Different types of wax, such as paraffin, soy, or beeswax, may require different removal methods. Also, candle jars made of ordinary and delicate materials require a different approach.
Methods for Removing Candle Wax
We can say right away that you won’t need any special equipment to clean your candle jars. You will definitely have everything you need in your home.
First of all, try going around the circle of the candle jar with a butter knife and shake out the waxy residue from the bottom. It often happens that the waxy disk comes off easily and you only need a butter knife to clean up the remaining wax.
To finally remove the wax you can use heating or freezing. The choice of method depends on the material from which the candle jar is made.
The following are the household items that will help you melt the leftover wax in the bottom of the container.
#1 Hot water
Using hot water is as easy as if it were a magic trick. Fill the candle jar about halfway with boiling water. Free space is needed to allow the waxy disk to float to the surface. As soon as the water cools down, the job is essentially done.
This method is great for votive candles, which more often than not have a wide and convenient container. These jars are very convenient to reuse for new candles too.
If the candle jar has a narrow neck, all that is left is to melt the paraffin to the last drop. The boiling water will do its work very quickly, and all the wax remains will float to the surface.
#2 The water bath
The boiling water method works great for ceramic candle jars, but not for thin crystal and other delicate materials. Try less hot water and repeat the procedure a few times.
A double boiler method will also be more gentle. If the candle jar has a decor that should not be wet, you can use the heat of steam.
The melted wax becomes malleable and is easy to remove with a butter knife or spatula. Soft wax leftovers are easy to remove with a paper towel or cloth if you have wide-mouth candles.
#3 Oven
It is wise to start this kind of heating if you have multiple candles piled up at once. Depending on the type of material, an average of 75-180F will be enough to melt. Try it from lower temperatures, as heating the oven too much can only increase paraffin or beeswax sticking.
If you have a narrow-neck candle jar, a heated oven is just what you need.
Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment, turn the candle jars upside down and wait for the results. All the wax will flow out onto the foil, and you’ll have a finished pot holder.
#4 Microwave
The microwave is a pretty risky way to melt wax residue. You can’t know for sure which type of wax is used or how long it will take to melt it.
Do not use the microwave at full power and turn on for no more than 60 seconds at a time!
The wax can boil over unexpectedly, and then you will have to clean not only the candle jar but the entire microwave. If the microwave is your only option to remove candle wax, heat water in a cup and just use the boiling water to remove the wax from the container.
#5 Hair dryer
Alternatively, use a hair dryer to heat the wax from a candle, being careful not to apply too much heat. To avoid drying out the skin on your hands and burning yourself, prep an oven mitt. It will also be convenient to work on a heat-safe surface, picking up the waxy residue on aluminum foil.
The smaller the candles, the faster the waxy residue will drain off. For larger volumes, a hair dryer requires patience, but you may have a heat gun in your household, why not?
- Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals to remove wax, as this can damage the container.
- Don’t use a hair dryer or other heat source too close to the wax, as this can cause it to stick to the container.
- Don’t leave the wax in the jar for too long, as this can cause it to harden and become more difficult to remove.
#6 Freezing remaining wax
Place the candle jar in the freezer overnight to harden the wax. Once frozen, the wax will become brittle, then you can easily use a spoon or butter knife to scrape it out of the candle jar. If the wax is still stubborn, extend the freezing process for several hours until the wax is removed.
Never douse well chilled glass jars with boiling heat! The sudden change in temperature can make the jar break. If, after freezing, you decide to proceed to melting off the waxy buildup, wait until the container is at room temperature.
Another precaution, although it may seem odd. When taking your containers out of the freezer, wear an oven mitt. Very cold objects can stick to your skin, leaving an unpleasant sensation.
How to Recycle Leftover Wax
Once the wax is removed, wash the container with dish soap and warm water to remove any residue. Dry the jar thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent water spots. Your candle jar is now ready to be reused or repurposed.
The next steps depend on whether you are going to make a new DIY candle or use the jar for your own needs. Leftover wax from several candles can easily be combined into a new one, by melting it in the oven.
Candle wicks are always available, although a wick is essentially just a piece of cotton thread. If you’re serious, check out the wick in a 200-foot coil, that’s enough to last you a long time.
Repurposing the jar
As for the jar, here’s a small list of ideas to give it new life:
- For storing cotton pads, hair ties, makeup brushes, etc
- For serving nuts, candies, small snacks, etc.
- As vases for small bouquets and as flower planters
- As a base for pens, pencils, and other stationery
- For drinks and cocktails.
Naturally, a jar with a lid has endless uses in the kitchen. These include storing tea, herbs, spices, and more. Also, the jar can become a piggy bank for coins, buttons, and children’s treasures. By the way, making DIY lights for garden together with your child can be a great option for a joint hobby! For inspiration, check out our ideas outdoor meditation space.
FAQ
How to get wax out of a glass candle holder?
Pour hot water into the candle jar to about halfway up. As it cools, all the wax will come to the top. If for some reason water is not convenient to use, try heating the candlestick in your oven place set at medium-low. Be sure to cover your baking sheet or other heat-safe surface with parchment, of course.
What takes candle wax off a glass table?
Pour hot water into the candle jar to about halfway up. As it cools, all the wax will come to the top. If for some reason water is not convenient to use, try heating the candlestick in your oven place set at medium-low. Be sure to cover your baking sheet or other heat-safe surface with parchment, of course.
How do you remove wax from glass menorah?
Menorah or any other large candlestick requires careful handling. Start cleaning with warm water, gradually increasing the temperature until the waxy buildup melts. Use a plastic knife against stubborn deposits to avoid scratching the surface.
How do you keep wax from pulling off glass?
Before inserting the candle into a clean prepared cup, heat and lightly flame the bottom of the candle. This will increase the adhesion and stability of the candle in any candlestick.
How to Remove Wax From Glass Candle Holder: Final Tip
Removing wax from a candle jar can be simple with the right techniques and precautions. By following these methods and tips, you can safely and effectively remove wax from your containers and reuse them for years to come. From now on, your expensive candle can take on a new life as a home decor item or become an entirely new candle! Give it a try and you will definitely succeed!
