Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to illuminate your space and create a cosy atmosphere, but disposing of them responsibly is important to reduce waste and promote sustainability. The process of recycling candles is not as simple as recycling other household items, and the method of disposal depends on the materials used and the parts of the candle that need to be discarded. This guide will provide an overview of how to dispose of candles, including the proper steps for recycling candle wax, wicks, and containers. With the right information, you can make informed choices to minimise waste and protect the planet.
How to Dispose of Candles
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle Type | Single-use, Reusable, Refillable, Compostable |
| Candle Composition | Glass, Ceramic, Tin, Wax |
| Wax Type | Paraffin, Vegetable, Animal Fats, Oils, Soy, Beeswax |
| Disposal Method | Reuse, Recycle, Compost, Throw Away |
| Recycling Facility | Commercial, Local |
| Cleaning Method | Boiling, Freezing, Oven, Pouring Boiling Water |
| Reuse Ideas | Storage Jar, Planter, Decorative Piece, Fragrance Pouch, New Candles |
| Disposal Considerations | Separate Parts, Remove Wax, Check Local Regulations |
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What You'll Learn
How to dispose of candle wax
To dispose of candle wax, you must first separate any remaining wax from the candle jar or holder. One way to do this is to freeze the candle jar, allowing the wax to shrink and pop out more easily. You can also pour hot water into the jar and let the wax float to the top, where it can be absorbed with a paper tissue or kitchen roll. Another method is to place the candle jar in a bowl of hot water, melting the wax so that it can be poured out.
Once the wax has been removed, it should be allowed to cool and solidify before disposal. Small amounts of wax can be reused to make new candles by melting and reforming them with a fresh wick. However, if you are unable or unwilling to repurpose the wax, it should be disposed of thoughtfully. Paraffin wax, for example, should be thrown away in regular waste, as it is not recyclable or compostable. On the other hand, waste fragrance-free candle wax can be composted, and compostable wax can be added to a compost pile or buried in a garden.
The candle container can typically be recycled or reused. Glass jars and metal tins for used candles are usually recyclable and can be cleaned out before being placed in the appropriate recycling bin. Alternatively, the container can be reused as a storage jar, planter, or decorative piece.
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Recycling candle jars
Glass Candle Jars
Glass is a common material for candle jars, but not all glass can be recycled. Most candles are made of borosilicate glass, which is durable and heat-resistant but not accepted at most local recycling centres. To recycle borosilicate glass, you will need to take it to a commercial recycling plant. On the other hand, soda-lime glass is recyclable, but it is not commonly used for candles as it is unsafe when heated. If you're unsure what type of glass your candle jar is made of, assume it is borosilicate and take it to a commercial recycling plant. Before recycling glass candle jars, ensure they are completely clean and free of any wax residue. You can use the boiling method to remove the wax: boil a pot of water and pour it into the jar, allowing the wax to dislodge and float to the top. Then, melt the wax to make a new candle or dispose of it properly.
Ceramic Candle Jars
Ceramic candle jars are not typically accepted at local recycling centres, but they can be recycled at most commercial recycling centres. Recycled ceramic is often reused in construction materials such as roads and driveways.
Tin Candle Jars
Tin candle jars are the most environmentally friendly option, as they are accepted at most local recycling centres. Almost all tin candles can be recycled locally, making them a great choice for single-use candles.
Reusing Candle Jars
Instead of recycling, you can also choose to reuse your candle jars. Clean out any remaining wax and wick debris, then repurpose the jar as a storage container, planter, or decorative piece. You can also donate clean, empty candle jars to thrift stores.
Remember, always check with your local recycling guidelines to understand the specific materials they accept and any preparation requirements. By recycling or reusing candle jars, you can help reduce waste and promote sustainability.
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Reusing candle wax
Fragrance pouches
If you have scented candles, you can melt the wax down and put it in little pouches. You can also add fragrances when melting the wax. Place these fragrance pouches in drawers, wardrobes, or even your car to freshen up stale areas.
Votives
You can make your own votives with reused wax. First, cut a piece of wicking, available at craft stores, 2 inches taller than the votive holder. Knot one end and thread the other end through a wick tab, also available at craft stores. Then, tie the free end around a wooden skewer. Dip the wicking and tab into the melted wax to coat them. Remove and press the tab to the bottom of the holder, resting the skewer on the votive's rim. Pour the melted wax into the votive holder, stopping half an inch below the rim, and let it stand until it sets, which should take about an hour.
Floral Wax Sachets
This project involves pouring wax into a small mold of your choosing. You can add a few drops of essential oil and place pressed flowers in the wax before letting it harden. Once the wax has hardened, remove it from the mold.
Fire Starters
These fire starters are made from wax flakes, cedar shavings, and dried flowers and herbs. You can make your own by gathering herbs and spices and breaking them into smaller pieces that will fit into the carton's cups. Set the egg carton on a sheet pan lined with wax paper.
Candle Warmers
You can add your reused wax to a candle warmer.
Removing Wax from the Jar
To remove wax from the jar, you can melt it in the oven at the lowest setting. Place the jar inside, removing any labels or stickers first. Once the wax is melted, scoop it out. Alternatively, you can place the jar in the freezer, allowing the wax to shrink and easily pop out.
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Commercial waste disposal
Remove Excess Wax
Before disposing of candles, it is essential to remove any leftover wax. This can be done by freezing the candle jar, allowing the wax to shrink and making it easier to pop out. Alternatively, you can use a butter knife to cut through the wax and then scoop it out with a spoon. Ensure that you separate the wax from the candle container, as wax is generally not recyclable.
Dispose of Wax Thoughtfully
Paraffin wax, commonly found in traditional candles, should be discarded in regular waste bins. It is important to note that paraffin wax is not recyclable or compostable. However, small amounts of wax can be reused to create new candles by melting and reforming them with fresh wicks.
Recycle or Reuse Candle Containers
Glass jars and metal tins from used candles are typically recyclable. Clean any remaining wax and wick debris from the containers to increase the likelihood of successful recycling. Place the cleaned containers in the appropriate recycling bins for commercial glass waste collection.
Partner with Reputable Waste Management Companies
Engage the services of licensed waste management companies that specialize in recycling candles and candle waste. These companies can ensure that your business's candle waste is responsibly recycled, reducing your environmental impact.
Donate or Repurpose Containers
If you choose not to recycle the candle containers, consider donating them to thrift stores or repurposing them within your business. Clean the containers thoroughly and remove all wax residue before donating or reusing them for storage, decoration, or other creative purposes.
By following these steps, businesses can ensure they are disposing of candles and candle waste responsibly, reducing their environmental footprint, and promoting sustainability. It is important to research and adhere to local regulations regarding commercial waste disposal to remain compliant.
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Eco-friendly disposal
The process of disposing of a candle responsibly depends on its composition and the materials it is made from. Here are some eco-friendly ways to dispose of candles:
Reuse the wax
Leftover candle wax can be reused in various ways. Small amounts of solid candle wax can be melted down and placed in little pouches to be used as fragrances. Alternatively, you can melt and reform the wax with a fresh wick to make a new candle.
Compost the wax
If you have a compost pile, you can add the wax to it as the natural ingredients will break down over time, enriching your compost with organic material. If you don't have a compost pile, you can bury the wax in your garden, where it will decompose naturally.
Recycle or reuse the container
If your candle is in a glass jar, you should clean it out to remove any remnants of wax. Then take it to your local bottle bank or nearest household waste recycling centre (HWRC) to recycle your glass candle jar with other glass waste. For any other types of candle holders or jars made from materials other than glass, check your local recycling collections. You can also reuse the container as a storage jar, planter, or decorative piece.
Commercial recycling
Some candle manufacturers offer recycling programs for their products. For example, candles made by Yankee Candle Company, Wood Wick, and Chesapeake Bay are recyclable through TerraCycle's free recycling program. You can drop off your used candles at your local Yankee Candle store or visit their website to print a prepaid postage label to ship your used candles to TerraCycle.
It's important to note that not all candles are recyclable due to their composition and makeup. Single-use candles, in particular, pose challenges in the recycling process. When disposing of candles, ensure that they are clean and made of recyclable materials.
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Frequently asked questions
Candle jars are typically made of glass, ceramic, or tin. Glass and ceramic jars can be recycled at commercial recycling plants, but not at home or in local centres. Tin candle jars can be recycled at local centres. Before recycling, ensure that the jar is completely clean and free of wax residue.
Leftover candle wax can be reused to make new candles by melting and reforming it with a fresh wick. Small amounts of wax can also be placed in fragrance pouches and put in drawers, wardrobes, or your car. If you are unable or unwilling to reuse the wax, it should be removed from the jar and disposed of in your general waste bin.
Candle wicks can be disposed of with your general waste.
Due to their composition and makeup, not all candles are recyclable. However, some manufacturers offer programs for recycling their products. For example, candles made by Yankee Candle Company, Wood Wick, and Chesapeake Bay are recyclable through TerraCycle's free recycling program.
