Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to make your home smell nice and create a cosy atmosphere. However, once the candle has burned down, you're left with an empty container. Instead of throwing it away, why not reuse it? There are plenty of ways to do so, such as using the container as a snack bowl, storage for toiletries, or even a plant pot. You can also make your own candles by melting down the leftover wax and pouring it back into the cleaned container. So, before you toss that empty candle container, consider giving it a second life!
How to reuse a candle container
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removing wax | Freeze the container and break the wax with a butter knife or spoon |
| Pour boiling water into the container and peel the labels off | |
| Soak the jar in warm water for 30 minutes | |
| Use a hairdryer to soften the wax | |
| Cleaning the jar | Wash the jar with dish soap and water |
| Use isopropyl alcohol or Goo Gone to remove sticky adhesive residue | |
| Soak the jar in soapy warm water to remove black scorch stains | |
| Reuse ideas | Use as storage for toiletries, makeup brushes, cotton swabs, hair ties, clips, or desk supplies |
| Use as a small bathroom compost bin | |
| Use as a snack bowl or a tumbler | |
| Use as a plant pot | |
| Make new candles |
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What You'll Learn
Use candle containers as storage for toiletries, makeup brushes, hair ties, etc
If you're looking for ways to reuse candle containers, one great option is to use them for storage. Empty candle jars can be the perfect size for storing toiletries, makeup brushes, cotton swabs, hair ties, and other small items. This can help you organise your bathroom or bedroom and give your space a stylish touch.
To prepare your candle containers for reuse, you'll first need to remove the remaining wax. One effective method is to freeze the container and then use a butter knife to break up and remove the wax. Alternatively, you can soak the jar in warm water for about 30 minutes, which will soften the wax and make it easier to remove. If you're looking for a quicker option, you can use a hairdryer to soften the wax, and then use a butter knife to lift it out.
Once the wax is removed, you'll want to clean the jar thoroughly. You can hand-wash the jar with dish soap and warm water. To remove any stubborn stains or adhesive residue, you can use a product like Goo Gone or isopropyl alcohol. Make sure to dry the jar completely before using it for storage.
After your candle containers are clean and dry, you can start filling them with your chosen items. For example, you can use them to store makeup brushes, keeping them organised and within easy reach. You can also use them for hair accessories, such as hair ties, clips, and bobby pins, to keep them all in one place. The jars can be a great way to declutter your space and give your vanity or bathroom counter a neat and organised look.
You can also get creative and decorate your candle containers before using them for storage. This can add a personal touch and make them even more aesthetically pleasing. Consider painting the jars, adding labels, or decorating them with stickers or ribbons to match your style and the decor of your space.
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Repurpose containers as snack bowls or tumblers
Repurposing empty candle containers as snack bowls or tumblers is a great way to upcycle them. Here are some steps you can follow to clean and reuse your candle containers:
Removing Wax from the Container
First, you need to remove the leftover wax from the container. There are a few different methods you can use to do this:
- Freezing: Place the candle container in the freezer overnight. In the morning, take it out and flip it upside down. The wax should pop right out. If it doesn't, use a butter knife to help loosen and remove the wax.
- Boiling Water: Pour boiling water into the container and let it sit for a few minutes. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the top. You can then use a butter knife to lift and remove the wax.
- Warm Water Soak: Remove the lid of the candle jar and soak it in warm water for about 30 minutes. The warm water will soften the wax, making it easy to pull out.
Cleaning the Container
Once the wax is removed, you'll need to clean the container thoroughly before using it for food. Here are some tips:
- Hand-wash the jar with dish soap and warm water. Use a sponge or brush to clean the inside and outside of the jar.
- Remove any labels and sticky adhesive residue with a cotton pad soaked in isopropyl alcohol or an adhesive remover like Goo Gone.
- For stubborn black scorch stains, try soaking the jar in warm, soapy water for a while before scrubbing.
- Avoid using a dishwasher to clean decorated glass containers, as it may strip away the colour coating.
Using the Containers as Snack Bowls or Tumblers
Once your containers are clean and dry, they can be used in a variety of ways:
- Snack Bowls: Use the containers to serve snacks when entertaining friends or family. They can add a unique touch to your table setting.
- Tumblers: Some candle containers, like the colourful metallic ones from Boy Smells, can be repurposed as tumblers for serving drinks to your guests.
- Storage: If you're not comfortable using the containers for food, you can still use them to store snacks or other items like toiletries, office supplies, or even coins near your entryway.
Remember to always check with the candle's manufacturer if you're unsure whether the container is food-safe. With a little creativity, you can give your empty candle containers a second life and reduce waste!
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Make new candles using the same container
Making new candles using the same container is a great way to reuse candle jars. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Remove the Wax
First, you need to get rid of the leftover wax in your candle jar. There are a few ways to do this. One method is to freeze the jar overnight, and then gently knock on the bottom of the jar or use a butter knife to break up and remove the frozen wax. Another method is to pour boiling water into the jar, which will cause the wax to float to the top. You can also try soaking the jar in warm water for 30 minutes to soften the wax and make it easier to remove.
Step 2: Clean the Jar
Once the wax is removed, clean the jar thoroughly. Hand-wash the jar with dish soap and warm water. If there are any stubborn stains or residue, soak the jar in warm, soapy water. You can use adhesive removers like Goo Gone to tackle any remaining sticky residue. Ensure the jar is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Wick
Measure the width of your jar and purchase a wick of the appropriate size. Swan Creek sells wicks of varying widths. Having a wick that fits your jar ensures an even burn. Wrap any extra length of the wick around a skewer or a similar item to keep it centred in the jar as the wax sets.
Step 4: Melt the Wax
Now, it's time to melt your new wax. You can use leftover wax from old candles or purchase new wax. Combine wax pieces with similar scents and colours in a microwave-safe dish. Heat the wax in one-minute increments at 60% power until it is completely melted. You can also melt the wax on the stove or in an electric kettle if you prefer.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Finally, carefully pour the melted wax into your cleaned and dried candle jar. Centre the wick, and allow the wax to harden. You can put the jar in the fridge or a cool place to speed up the setting process.
And that's it! You've created a new candle using your old candle container. Enjoy your new candle, and remember to reuse the jar again when it's finished!
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Clean out the container and use it for home decor
Clean out your candle containers and give them a second life as home decor pieces. Here are some steps to effectively clean out your candle containers and some ideas for reusing them for home decor:
Cleaning the Container:
- Freezing Method: Place the candle container in the freezer overnight or for a few hours. The wax will freeze and peel off the sides of the jar. After removing the container from the freezer, use a knife to easily remove the wax.
- Boiling Water Method: Pour boiling water into the container, filling it only halfway as the wax will rise to the surface. Let the container sit until the water is cold, and the wax will float to the top. Then, remove the wax. Alternatively, place the candle inside a pot or large metal bowl on a heat-safe surface. Pour boiling water around the candle, ensuring it doesn't get into the jar. Let the jar sit in the hot water until the wax softens, then remove it and pop out the wax.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking pan with aluminium foil or parchment paper. Place the candle jars upside down on the pan and put it in the oven. The wax will melt in about 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a heat-safe surface.
- Microwave Method: If there are small bits of wax remaining, put the container in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Ensure your jar is microwave-safe before doing this. Afterward, wipe away any remaining wax with a paper towel.
- Final Cleaning: Once most of the wax is removed, wash the container with soap and water. You can use a sponge and some washing-up liquid to clean the jar thoroughly.
Reusing the Container for Home Decor:
- Storage: Use your cleaned candle containers for storage in your bathroom, bedroom, or any other space in your home. You can store odds and ends, snacks, or small items in them.
- Vases: If your candle container is aesthetically pleasing, reuse it as a vase for flowers or greenery.
- Organisational Tools: You can use the containers to organise items on your desk, such as pens and pencils, or in your bathroom for makeup brushes or cotton pads.
- Planters: Depending on the size and shape of your container, you can repurpose it as a planter for small succulents or herbs.
- Candle-Making: If you enjoy candle-making, you can reuse the containers to create your own candles.
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Use the container to categorise home-office supplies
If you're looking for ways to reuse a candle container, there are several options to explore. Firstly, ensure that you have removed any remaining wax from the container. One way to do this is by freezing the container and then using a butter knife to break up and remove the wax. Alternatively, you can soak the jar in warm water for about 30 minutes, which will melt the wax and make it easy to pull out.
Once your candle container is clean, you can put it to various uses. One idea is to use it to categorise and store home-office supplies. Here are some ways to do this:
Stationery Storage
Use your cleaned candle containers to store stationery items such as pens, pencils, markers, and scissors. You can place these containers on your desk or shelf, making your stationery easily accessible and organised.
Paper Clip and Pin Holder
Small candle containers can be perfect for holding paper clips, pins, and rubber bands. Keep one on your desk to easily access these items when you need them.
Sticky Note Dispenser
Cut a slit in the lid of your candle container and use it to dispense sticky notes. This will keep your sticky notes together and easily accessible, and you can decorate the container to make it more visually appealing.
Business Card Holder
Use a shallow candle container to store your business cards. This will keep them neat and presentable, and you can easily grab a few to hand out when needed.
Mail Organiser
If you have larger candle containers, you can use them to organise incoming and outgoing mail. Place the containers on a shelf or in a designated area for mail, and label them accordingly.
By reusing your candle containers, you not only reduce waste but also create a stylish and functional storage system for your home office supplies.
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Frequently asked questions
One way to remove wax from a candle container is to place the container in the freezer overnight. In the morning, take the container out of the freezer and flip it upside down—the lump of wax should pop right out. If it doesn't, use a butter knife to break it up and remove it in pieces.
To clean a candle container, use warm water, soap, and a sponge to clean the container before wiping it dry with a dish towel or paper towel. For stubborn residue, use an adhesive remover, such as Goo Gone.
Candle containers can be used for a variety of purposes, including as storage containers for toiletries, makeup brushes, cotton swabs, hair ties, clips, or home-office supplies. They can also be used as snack bowls or tumblers, although it is important to check with the candle's manufacturer to ensure the jar is food safe.
Yes, you can make a new candle using an old candle container. First, ensure that the container is clean and free of any wax residue. Then, purchase candle refill wax kits online or buy bulk wax to melt and pour into the container.
