Brooke Martin
Candles are made from a variety of materials, including glass, ceramic, and tin, and can be recycled in different ways. One way to recycle candles is to melt the wax and pour it into a container, such as a jar, to make a new candle. This can be done by boiling water and pouring it into the old candle jar, melting the wax, and then using a butter knife to remove the wax from the jar. It is important to ensure that the jar is clean and free of any residue before recycling or repurposing it. Another method is to place the candle jar in the freezer until the wax freezes, and then use a knife to pop out the frozen wax. Candle jars can be reused for various purposes, such as storage containers or plant pots, or recycled through partnerships with companies like TerraCycle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials used in candles | Glass, ceramic, and tin |
| Glass type used in candles | Borosilicate glass and soda-lime glass |
| Recyclability of borosilicate glass | Not accepted at most local recycling centers, can be taken to commercial recycling plants |
| Recyclability of soda-lime glass | Recyclable but not safe for candles due to low heat resistance |
| Recyclability of ceramic | Can be recycled and reused in construction materials |
| Recyclability of tin | Accepted at local recycling centers |
| Wax removal methods | Boiling water, oven, freezer, stovetop |
| Wax disposal | Composting if made with natural wax and non-toxic fragrances, pouring into garbage |
| Label removal | Peeling, dishwasher, warm soapy water, glue softening with boiling water |
| Candle recycling programs | Yankee Candle's partnership with TerraCycle |
| Candle jar reuse ideas | New candles, storage containers, pen/pencil holders, planting pots with added drainage |
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What You'll Learn
How to remove wax from candle jars
There are several ways to remove wax from candle jars for recycling or repurposing. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive methods to achieve this:
Freezing
Place the candle jar in the freezer for a few hours or overnight. Candle wax hardens and shrinks when it gets cold, so freezing often causes leftover candle wax to pop loose. This method works best for thick chunks of wax.
Boiling Water
Bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Place the jar on a flat, heat-resistant surface, such as a wooden cutting board, and pour boiling water into the jar, filling it about three-quarters full. As you pour, the hot water will melt the wax, causing it to slowly rise to the top. Allow the wax to cool and solidify, then carefully remove it from the water.
Alternatively, you can fill a large pot or container with hot water and place the candle jar into a smaller bowl, setting it on top of the container. This method is better for softer candle wax, like soy and coconut wax.
Oven
Preheat your oven to between 150 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the candle jar upside down on a sheet of aluminum foil on a baking pan. Monitor the oven as the wax melts and pools on the foil, which should take about 15 minutes. Carefully remove the pan from the oven and take the jar off the pan using an oven mitt. Once the wax has dried, remove it from the foil for future use or disposal.
Hair Dryer or Heat Gun
Place the jar on a flat, heat-resistant surface. Use a hairdryer or heat gun on its lowest setting to target the wax until it softens and begins to melt. Wipe away the melted wax with a paper towel or cloth. Repeat this process until all the wax is removed.
After removing the wax, ensure you clean the jar thoroughly to remove any remaining residue. You can use warm or hot soapy water and a sponge or cloth for this step. Dry the jar thoroughly before repurposing or recycling it.
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How to clean candle jars before recycling
Recycling candle jars is an excellent way to contribute to sustainability. However, it is important to ensure that the jars are meticulously cleaned before recycling. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean candle jars effectively:
Removing Wax Residue
Start by removing any leftover wax from the jar. You can do this by placing the jar on a protective surface, such as a dish towel or a potholder, and then pouring boiling water into the jar. Fill the jar approximately three-quarters full, being careful as the jar will become extremely hot. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the top. Allow the jar to cool down completely, which may take around 4-5 hours. Once the wax has solidified, use a butter knife or a similar tool to gently dislodge and remove it from the jar.
Cleaning the Jar
After removing the wax, the jar may still have lingering residue, soot, or adhesive labels. To thoroughly clean the jar, you can use an abrasive sponge or brush, along with warm water and dish soap. Scrub the jar well, and repeat this step if necessary to ensure that all residue is removed. For stubborn buildup or adhesive residue, you can use an adhesive remover like Goo Gone. Alternatively, you can place the jar in the dishwasher for 2-3 cycles, which will cause the glue and paper to melt and wash off.
Drying and Repurposing
Once the jar is pristine and free from any residue, ensure that you dry it with a dish towel or paper towel. At this point, you can choose to recycle the jar according to the guidelines in your area, or you can repurpose it. Clean candle jars can be used as containers for small items such as office supplies, coins, cotton balls, craft supplies, or even as vessels for propagating plant cuttings or growing herbs in water.
It is important to note that not all candle jars are made of recyclable materials. Most candle jars are made of glass, specifically borosilicate glass, which is not accepted at most local recycling centers. If your jar is made of tin, it can likely be recycled at local recycling centers. Always check the material of your candle jar and follow the appropriate recycling guidelines.
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How to repurpose candle jars
Most candle jars are made of glass, which is widely recyclable, but before you recycle them, you can repurpose the jars for new candles or reuse them as containers. Here are some ideas for repurposing your candle jars:
- Storage jars: You can use empty candle jars as storage jars for small items such as pens and pencils, or for storing small items in your kitchen cupboards or office space.
- Planters: You can use empty candle jars as planters, but be sure to add some drainage stones first as the jars don't have drainage holes.
- New candles: You can make your own candles using recycled candle wax and a jar. You can get creative by adding items like seashells, flowers, or plastic figurines to your recycled candles.
- Upcycling: If you don't want to recycle your candle jars, you can upcycle them by sending them to a company like TerraCycle®, which has partnered with candle companies like Yankee Candle® to recycle their products.
Before repurposing your candle jars, it's important to remove any leftover wax and clean them thoroughly. Here are some ways to remove wax from candle jars:
- Freezer method: Place the candle jar in the freezer for a couple of hours, or until the wax is frozen. Then, use a butter knife to pop the frozen wax out of the container.
- Boiling water method: Pour boiling water into the candle jar, filling it about three-quarters full. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to rise to the surface. Allow the jar to cool for 4-5 hours until the wax solidifies, then remove the wax with a butter knife or similar tool.
- Oven method: If the wax is too hard to remove, place the jar in the oven on warm for a few moments to soften the wax. Do not allow the jar to get too hot, as it may explode.
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How to recycle candle wax
Recycling candle wax is a great way to be environmentally conscious and creative. Here are some detailed steps to recycle candle wax effectively:
Preparing the Workspace
Before beginning the recycling process, it's important to create a designated workspace to avoid any mess or damage to your surroundings. Place an old towel on a flat surface, such as a kitchen table or counter, and gather all the candles you plan to recycle. It is also recommended to wear gloves to protect your hands from hot wax and sharp tools.
Removing Wax from Containers
To remove wax from candle jars or containers, there are several methods you can use:
- Freezer Method: Place the candle jar in the freezer for a few hours. Once the wax is frozen, use a butter knife to gently pop out the wax. This method is effective and safe for glass containers.
- Boiling Water Method: Fill a sink or large pot with hot water. Place the candle jar in the water, being careful not to get any water inside the jar. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to rise to the surface. Allow the wax to cool and solidify, then use a knife to gently remove it from the jar.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting. Place the jar inside the oven, ensuring it doesn't get too hot, as this may cause the jar to explode. Once the wax is melted, carefully remove the jar from the oven and scoop out the wax with a spoon or similar tool.
Cleaning the Containers
After removing the wax, it's crucial to clean the containers thoroughly before recycling or repurposing them. Use a butter knife or spoon to scrape away any remaining wax or residue. If there are labels or stickers on the jars, remove them by peeling off as much paper as possible. Then, wash the jars with warm soapy water or place them in the dishwasher for a few cycles to remove any remaining glue or residue. Ensure the jars are completely dry before recycling or reusing them.
Recycling or Repurposing the Wax
Once you have removed the wax, there are several ways to recycle or repurpose it:
- Composting: If the wax is made from natural ingredients such as soy, beeswax, or coconut, you can compost it to contribute to a sustainable ecosystem.
- Making New Candles: You can create your own candles by melting the wax and pouring it into moulds or vintage teacups with new wicks. Get creative by adding essential oils, dried flowers, or other decorative items.
- Crafting: Use the wax for various crafts, such as making floral wax sachets, wax melts for candle warmers, or sealing envelopes for a decorative touch.
Recycling or Repurposing Containers
Candle containers are often made of recyclable materials such as glass, tin, or ceramic. Check with your local recycling facilities to understand their specific guidelines for accepting candle jars. If your containers are in good condition, you can also repurpose them as drinking glasses, plant pots, or storage containers.
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Types of candle jars that can be recycled
Recycling candle jars is a great way to be environmentally conscious, but it's important to first ensure that the jar is empty and clean. Wax residue can contaminate an entire batch of recycling, so it's crucial to take the time to properly clean your candle jars before recycling them.
Once the wax has been removed, candle jars made of soda-lime glass can usually be recycled curbside. This type of glass has a green or blue tint and is the most commonly used type of glass for candle jars. However, it's important to check with your local recycling facilities to ensure they accept this type of glass.
Candle jars made of borosilicate glass, on the other hand, cannot be recycled at home or in local centres. This type of glass has a clear or yellow tint and is more durable and heat-resistant than soda-lime glass. To recycle borosilicate glass candle jars, you will need to take them to a commercial recycling plant.
Tin candle jars are another option that is widely accepted at local recycling centres. These may not look as luxurious as glass or ceramic jars, but they are a great option for single-use candles and are easily recyclable.
In addition to recycling, there are many ways to repurpose candle jars around your home. You can use them for storage, such as holding dry goods in your pantry or office supplies on your desk. They can also be used for food preparation, such as overnight oats or salad, or for regrowing food scraps like green onions or celery.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to remove wax from a candle jar. One way is to boil water and carefully pour it into the jar, filling it about three-quarters. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to rise to the surface. Let the jar cool for 4-5 hours, then use a butter knife to gently dislodge the wax. You can also place the candle jar in the freezer for a couple of hours, then use a butter knife to pop out the frozen wax.
Candle jars are typically made of glass, ceramic, or tin. Glass candle jars are widely recyclable, but most are made of borosilicate glass, which is not accepted at local recycling centres. Ceramic candle jars can be recycled and are often reused in construction materials. Tin candle jars are accepted at most local recycling centres.
Leftover candle wax can be composted if it is made with 100% natural wax (such as soy, beeswax, or coconut) and non-toxic fragrances. You can also melt the wax and create new candles by pouring the melted wax into moulds or jars.
