Jessie Taylor
Candles are a popular way to create a cosy atmosphere and illuminate spaces without using electricity. However, at the end of their lives, candles often leave behind jars, wicks, and leftover wax, which can be challenging to dispose of responsibly. While some people choose to toss their candles in the trash, recycling candles is crucial for reducing waste and promoting sustainability. The process of recycling candles varies depending on the materials involved, and it may require separating wax from containers, reusing or repurposing containers, and properly disposing of or recycling wax remnants.
How to Dispose of Candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle wax removal from jars | Pour boiling water into the candle jar, wait for the wax to float to the top and harden, then remove it. Alternatively, place the candle in the freezer, then use a knife to crack and remove the wax. |
| Jar recycling | Glass jars can be recycled at commercial recycling plants, but not at home or in local centres. Soda-lime glass is recyclable, but borosilicate glass, used in most candles, is not accepted at most local recycling centres. |
| Reusing jars | Jars can be repurposed for a variety of uses, such as storage. |
| Wax disposal | Small amounts of solid candle wax can be disposed of in general waste bins. |
| Wick disposal | Wick remnants should be disposed of with general waste. |
| Labels | Labels can be peeled off, scrubbed, or soaked in hot water to remove glue residue. |
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What You'll Learn
How to dispose of candle wax
Candle wax can be reused in several ways. One way is to melt the wax and create new candles. You can also use the wax for other purposes, such as lubrication or waterproofing. If you're looking to dispose of candle wax, here are some tips:
First, separate the wax from the candle container. This can be done by melting the wax. Place the candle in a pot of boiling water on the stove, which will melt the wax, or put the candle jar in the freezer, which will make the wax easier to pop out. You can also pour boiling water directly into the candle jar and let it sit overnight. The wax will float to the top and harden, making it easy to remove.
Once you have removed the wax, clean the container with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining wax and residue. If there are labels on the container, peel off as much as you can, then use a product like Goo Gone to remove the rest. Wash the container again with warm, soapy water.
Now that the wax has been separated and the container has been cleaned, you can dispose of the wax and recycle the container. Small amounts of solid candle wax can be disposed of in general waste bins. Candle containers made of glass, metal, or plastic can often be recycled, although not all facilities accept all types of glass. Check with your local recycling centre to see what types of glass they accept.
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How to recycle candle jars
Recycling candle jars is a great way to reduce waste and promote sustainability. However, not all candle jars are recyclable, and the process can vary depending on the material they are made of. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to recycle candle jars:
Step 1: Burn the Candle
Firstly, burn the candle until it is nearly finished. This is the most enjoyable part of the process, as you can embrace the cosy ambiance of the candle. Following proper candle care tips can help the candle last longer and make the cleanup process easier.
Step 2: Prepare for Wax Removal
Before you begin the wax removal process, create a designated workspace by placing an old towel on your kitchen table or counter. This will help minimise any mess.
Step 3: Melt the Wax
There are several ways to melt the remaining wax in the jar. One method is to boil water and carefully pour it into the candle jar, filling it about three-quarters full. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to rise to the surface. Alternatively, you can place the candle jar in a pot of water on the stove and heat it until the wax liquifies. Another option is to put the candle jar in the freezer for a couple of days. Once the wax is frozen, you can use a butter knife to pop it out.
Step 4: Remove the Wax
After melting the wax, allow the jar to cool for around 4-5 hours until the wax solidifies at the top. Use a butter knife or a similar tool to gently dislodge and remove the hardened wax from the jar. If there is any remaining wax on the bottom, repeat the process with more boiling water.
Step 5: Clean the Jar
Wash the jar with soap and warm water to remove any leftover wax and residue. For stubborn labels, you can use a product like Goo Gone. Peel off as much of the label as you can, apply Goo Gone, let it sit for a minute, then scrub off the rest. Alternatively, you can soak the jar in boiling water to soften the glue, or run it through the dishwasher a few times.
Step 6: Recycle or Reuse the Jar
Once the jar is clean and free of wax and residue, it is ready for recycling. Glass candle jars can be taken to a local bottle bank or household waste recycling centre (HWRC) to be recycled with other glass waste. However, it is important to note that not all glass is recyclable. Candle jars made of borosilicate glass, which has a clear or yellow tint, are not accepted at most local recycling centres. If the glass has a green or blue tint, it is likely soda-lime glass, which is recyclable but not suitable for candles due to safety concerns. For candle jars made of other materials, such as plastic or metal, check your local recycling collections for specific instructions.
Instead of recycling, you can also choose to reuse your candle jars. They can be repurposed for various purposes, such as storage containers or decorative vases. Donating clean and empty candle jars to thrift stores is another option to consider.
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Reusing candle wax
There are many ways to reuse candle wax. Here are some ideas:
Melting the Wax
If you want to melt the wax, you can do so in a few different ways. One way is to boil water and pour it into the candle jar, filling it around three-quarters full. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to slowly rise to the surface. Let the jar sit and cool for around 4-5 hours until the wax solidifies at the top. You can then remove the wax with a butter knife or similar tool. Alternatively, you can melt the wax in the oven. Preheat the oven to its lowest setting, place the jar inside, and remove any labels or stickers first. Once the wax is melted, scoop it out and reuse it.
Making Votives
You can make your own votives using reused wax. Cut a piece of wicking that is 2 inches taller than the votive holder. Knot one end and thread it through a wick tab, then tie the free end around a wooden skewer. Dip the wicking and tab into the melted wax to coat them, then remove and press the tab to the bottom of the holder. Rest the skewer on the votive's rim and pour the melted wax into the votive holder, stopping half an inch below the rim. Let it stand until it sets, which should take about an hour. To even out the well in the center, pour more wax until it's a quarter of an inch below the rim.
Floral Wax Sachets
You can also make floral wax sachets using reused candle wax. Melt the wax and pour it into a small mold of your choosing. Add a few drops of essential oil and place some pressed flowers in the wax. Let the wax harden, then remove it from the mold. These sachets can be placed in drawers, wardrobes, or even your car to introduce a fresh fragrance.
Fire Starters
Another creative way to reuse candle wax is to make fire starters. Combine wax flakes with cedar shavings and dried flowers or herbs. Place them in an egg carton lined with wax paper. These fire starters are perfect for creating a cozy glow in your fireplace without needing a lot of kindling.
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Reusing candle jars
First, separate the wax from the candle jar. This can be done by placing the jar in the freezer for a couple of days. Once the wax is frozen, it can be easily popped out with a butter knife or a similar tool. If there is any remaining wax on the bottom, you can repeat the process or use a hairdryer to melt the wax and then soak it up with a paper towel.
Another method to remove wax is by filling the jar with boiling water. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to rise to the surface. Allow the jar to cool for around 4-5 hours until the wax solidifies. Then, use a butter knife to gently dislodge and remove the hardened wax.
If your candle jar has a label, you can remove it by peeling off as much as possible. You can then use a product like Goo Gone or simply soak the jar in boiling water to soften the glue, making it easier to scrub off the remaining label. Wash the jar with warm soapy water to remove any residue.
Once your candle jar is clean and free of wax and labels, it can be reused in various ways. You can use it as a storage container for small items such as coins, pins, or paper clips. It can also be repurposed as a drinking glass, a vase for flowers, or a holder for makeup brushes or pens and pencils. Get creative and find a new purpose for your cleaned candle jar!
If you prefer to recycle the jar instead of reusing it, check the type of glass used. Most candles are made of borosilicate glass, which is not accepted at local recycling centres but can be taken to commercial recycling plants. Alternatively, you can take the jar to your local bottle bank or household waste recycling centre (HWRC) to recycle it with other glass waste.
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What to do with candle wicks
When it comes to disposing of candle wicks, the options are more limited than for other candle components. Candle wicks are not typically recyclable, so they should be disposed of with your general waste. Make sure to separate the wick from the wax and container before discarding it.
If you are looking for creative ways to reuse candle wicks instead of simply throwing them away, there are a few options to consider. You could save the wicks and use them as kindling for a fire, either indoors or for camping. The wicks can act as a quick fire starter, especially if you are using dry wood that may be challenging to ignite.
Another option is to use the wicks as a natural cord for various projects. The wicks can be braided or twisted together to create a stronger, thicker cord that can be put to different uses. For example, you could use the wick cord for gardening purposes, such as tying up plants or securing trellises. Alternatively, you could use the cord for crafting projects, such as macrame or other fibre arts.
Lastly, if you are unable to reuse the wicks and do not want to simply throw them away, you might consider composting them. Candle wicks are typically made from cotton or other natural fibres, which can break down in a compost pile or bin. However, be sure to check the specific materials of your candle wicks before adding them to your compost, as some wicks may contain synthetic fibres or be treated with chemicals that are not compost-friendly.
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Frequently asked questions
Candle wax can be removed from its container by melting it with boiling water. The wax will float to the top and harden, after which it can be removed and thrown into general waste. The container can then be cleaned and recycled.
Old candle jars can be recycled or reused. Glass, metal, and plastic candle jars can be recycled with other glass, metal, or plastic waste. Alternatively, old candle jars can be repurposed for a variety of uses.
Candle wicks should be disposed of with general waste.
