August 2, 2024

Candles are more than just sources of your favorite scents—ours come in a variety of hand-picked vessels that can be reused in various creative ways. Whether you’re looking to repurpose your candle jar as a small plant, a DIY craft (check out our team’s favorites here) or simply want to clean it out to recycle, here are three easy methods to help you get that jar squeaky clean.

Candles poured with soy wax, like ours, are particularly simple to clean because soy wax is more pliable than paraffin wax alternatives and softer, making it easier to remove leftover wax residue. Repurposing your jar not only reduces waste, but it also adds a touch of eco-friendliness to your home decor. For ideas on how to reuse candle jars, check out our blog on creative repurposing!

Scrub Method

1. Burn your candle until the wax is melted and then carefully pour out as much liquid wax as possible into the trash. Never pour wax down the sink!
2. Scoop out remaining wax once cooled with a spoon or a butter knife. Dispose of the wax scraps.
3. Wash the jar with hot, soapy water. Use a sponge or brush to scrub the inside of the jar to remove any residual wax or soot. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely. 

Hot Water Method

1. Fill your candle jar with boiling water, leaving some space at the top. Allow the hot water to sit in the jar until the wax starts to separate from the sides.
2. Once the water has cooled down, the wax will solidify on the surface. Carefully remove the wax disc from the top of the water and throw in the trash.
3. After removing the wax, wash the jar with hot, soapy water as in Method 1.

Freezer Method

1. Place your candle jar in the freezer for a few hours or overnight.
2. Use a spoon or knife to pop out the wax. The cold temperature causes the wax to contract and harden.
3. Clean out remaining residue and allow your jar to dry completely before using it for your next DIY project.

Why Reuse Matters

Since the 1950s, the rate of plastic production has grown faster than that of any other material. Less than 9% of single-use plastic such as straws, plates and water bottles actually gets recycled (Source).

Get Started

Interested in joining our candle club? Subscribe to the box and share how you reuse Vellabox!