Candle Care 101 | How to Remove Wax From a Candle Jar

Transform the way you use any size Hotel Collection candle jars, from our 3oz. Discovery Candle Sets to our 55oz. Deluxe Candles.

Can’t let go of your favorite candle? Upcycling candle jars and containers is a fun and eco-friendly craft to do with family and friends. If you are under the age of 18, be sure to have adult supervision and parental permission prior to trying these DIY candle hacks. It doesn't take too many steps or tools to successfully clean out a candle container. So go look around your home and collect all old candle containers. First, you must carefully remove the remaining wax and residue from the container. There are several ways to safely and efficiently do this.

When to toss an old candle: Burning a candle down to less than ½ inch of wax can cause damage to the container and surface it's sitting on. Follow this rule of thumb to prevent soot build up, heat damage, and any potential fire hazards.

Repurposing is easy with these 2 methods:

The freezer method: 

1. Stick the candle in the freezer overnight.
2. Carefully use a butter knife or spoon to pop out the remaining layer.
3. If it's not coming out, gently break cracks into it and let the pieces fall out.
4. Remove the wick by lightly tugging it with your fingers. Use a plier if needed.
5. Once everything is out, rinse with soap and hot water to remove residue. 
6. For tough clean ups, use an adhesive remover such as Goo Gone with a bottle brush or old toothbrush to scrape tough wax buildup.
7. Dry with a cloth towel.

The hot water method: 

1. Boil 5 cups of water in a pot.
2. Bring the temperature down to medium.
3. Using prongs or oven mitts, carefully place the candle inside of the jar. Be sure to not let water get into the candle. The hot water will release the wax from the bottom of the container. 
4. After a few minutes, the wax should either pop up on its own or you can gently jab with a spoon or butter knife to loosen it.
5. Clean the container with soap, a sponge and warm water to remove any remaining residue.
6. Dry with a cloth towel.

If you accidentally get boiling water on your skin, cool the burn with cool to lukewarm running water for 20-30 minutes. If the hot water gets on your clothes, quickly remove them. Do not use ice, ice water, or any creams or greasy substances on the burn. Seek medical attention if the burn covers a large portion of the body, is severe or extremely painful. Follow proper medical care to treat burn wounds, including using aloe vera and sterile bandages.

Now that your candle is clean and ready to use, discover How to Repurpose Hotel Collection Candles.