Re-purpose || Reuse || Up-cycling
What do you do with the glass jar your candle came in once the candle is gone? It seems like a pity to throw them away.
We have created the ultimate guide covering everything from cleaning out the old wax, to great ideas for up cycling your scented candle jars.
How to remove the wax from the jar
Candles should only be used and enjoyed until there is 1 cm of wax remaining at the bottom of the glass jar. The first step to being able to reuse the old candle jar is to remove all the old wax from inside it make sure your enamel pin is not inside too. There are numerous different ways to achieve this.
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Wash
This is the simplest method and works well for candles like ours that are made of soy wax. This is because soy wax has a low melting point and is easier to remove from the container. First remove as much of the leftover wax as possible using a knife or spoon, but do not throw away the leftover wax, we will tell you why later. Then fill the container with soap and hot water from your tap, let it sit for a minute, before scrubbing the inside clean.
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Make it Cold
When candle wax becomes frozen it often becomes brittle and it can easily be removed from its container. Firstly place the old candle container into your freezer for a couple of hours. Once it has frozen, use a flat knife to gently pop out the remaining wax. Once the wax has been removed wipe any remaining debris using a wet cloth. This is a good method for candles made using Paraffin wax or Beeswax.
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Bain-Marie Method
Another method is the double boiler method. This works by filling a bowl with boiling water, and gently placing the glass candle container in it for a few minutes. The heat from the boiling water will transfer through the sides of the container and melt the remaining wax left on the inside. Once the wax has softened, carefully remove the jar from the water and pour out the melted wax. The jar can then be washed using warm water and soap to finish.
Ways to recycle and reuse candle glasses.
Your favourite scented candle is nearing the end, all it’s perfectly fragranced wax has been used over countless evenings of cosy enjoyment, and you’re left with just the empty glass. Of course there’s no need to worry, there are plenty of great ways to reuse your old scented candle containers. After you’ve followed our cleaning instructions above, you’ll be able to recycle the candle holders – here are a few of our favourite ideas…
- Use as a plant pot or for flowers – this time of year is perfect for flower add a pop of colour to your home by using your old glass jars as vases.
- Make up storage – always losing your brushes, can’t find your favourite mascara? Why not use your jars to organise your make up.
- Stationary - I am forever losing my paper clips or pins for my boards use your old candle jars to organise your small stationary items.
- Tea light holder - as the evenings begin to get warmer why not pop in some tea lights or fairy lights in your old jars and use a centre piece on you garden table. If you’re feeling crafty why not paint the jars too.
- In your bathroom – Glass is one material that will always look stylish in your bathroom. fill your old candle container with, cotton wool, ear cleaners or plasters. Not only will everything be where you want it but it will also look modern and contemporary.