How to remove wax from candles and reuse the support

Check out tips on how to clean the wax debris from your candle holder and give a new use to the glass holders

Remove wax from the glass candle holder

Many people like to dine by candlelight, to make decorations with candles or to light candles for religious or mystical reasons or to add flavor to the house. Many decorative or scented candles come in pretty holders, such as glass jars and bottles, that can be repurposed. Removing the wax from the candle holder may seem like an impossible task, but you don't have to give up on such pretty little bottles. We've selected five methods to help you get the wax candle remnants out of the holder.

How to clean candle holders

There are several home techniques that can help you get the wax remnants out of the jars you have used as candle holders. The best way depends on the type of wax. You can also use these tips to repurpose the pot and make your own candles , using the same candle holders every time , without having to buy a new holder for each candle .

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Methods for getting candle wax out of glasses

1. Microwave

This method is effective for removing any type of wax, regardless of its melting point (the temperature at which the wax melts), but care must be taken with the quality of the candle holders. Some glass, such as colored ones or those with visible air bubbles, cannot withstand microwave radiation and may explode. If in doubt about the type of glass for your candle holder, choose another method.

If you find your glass microwave safe, use a knife first to remove candle debris easier. Discard the excess and place the holder in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Use a paper towel to dry and discard melted wax. Wash the candle holder in warm, soapy water.

2. Freezer

Place the candle holders in the freezer and wait a few hours. The low temperature will cause the wax to contract and then just pull or use a knife to help remove the candle debris. Rub the smaller pieces with a cloth or paper towel to finish cleaning.

3. Wash with warm water

Washing the candle holder in warm water works well for cleaning out leftover candles made with soy wax or other types of wax with a low melting point. Use a knife to remove excess wax from the candle holder, taking as much wax as possible, then place the candle holder in the sink and fill it with warm water - if your faucet is heated, the heat of the water in the sink is enough. Wait a few minutes and rub the wax in with the help of warm water - using a vegetable sponge will help prevent scratches on your candle holder.

4. Wax tea

In this method, you will remove the wax by pouring the boiling water directly into the candle holder. Add water halfway through the candle holder or enough to cover the wax remains (do not fill the glass until the end), wait until the candle remains start to float on top of the candle holder . Wait for the water to cool and, if desired, set aside the candle remains to reuse when making new candles.

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5. Bain-marie

Place the candle holder inside a pot or larger pot of boiling water. You can place the glass directly in the pan over the fire or boil the water first if you prefer. In both modes, leave the outside of the candle holder in contact with boiling water for a few minutes. When the wax has completely melted, remove the liquid (be careful not to burn yourself). Wash the glass with soap and water (if it can be warm it is better).

Best method for each type of wax

Paraffin

  • Melting point: 46.6°C to 65°C;
  • Best method: freezer, bain-marie or wax tea.

Beeswax

  • Melting point: 65.5°C to 73.8°C;
  • Best method: freezer, bain-marie or wax tea.

soy wax

  • Melting point: 50°C;
  • Best method: wash with warm water.


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