Ben Carter
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but they can be expensive and wasteful. Luckily, there are several ways to reuse candles and their wax. Whether you're working with the remnants of a jarred candle, a pillar, or a taper, you can melt the remaining wax and repurpose it for new candles, wax sachets, or even a candle warmer. Before reusing, it's important to properly melt and remove the wax from its original vessel, which can be done by placing the candle in a small pot of simmering water or in the oven at a low temperature. With some creativity and a few simple tools, you can give your favourite candles new life and enjoy their warmth and fragrance all over again.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ways to melt wax | Place the candle in an oven at the lowest setting, put the jar in a small pot inside a larger pot of simmering water, or place the jar in the freezer |
| Wax removal | Rubbing liquid paraffin on the wax, running hot water over the candleholder, or melting the wax |
| Reuse ideas | Make new candles, votives, tea lights, floral wax sachets, or use in a candle warmer |
| Wick removal | Use tongs or soak in water |
| Wick suppliers | Swan Creek |
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What You'll Learn
How to melt candle wax
Melting candle wax can be done in several ways, but it's important to remember that it can be dangerous if you're not careful. Here are some detailed instructions on how to melt candle wax safely:
Double Boiler Method
The double boiler method is a safe and convenient way to melt candle wax. It involves using two pots, one larger pot filled with water and a smaller pot placed inside it to hold the wax. Bring the water in the larger pot to a simmer, making sure the water doesn't touch the smaller pot. Place the wax in the smaller pot and melt it slowly over low to medium heat. This method is suitable for natural waxes, and you can clean and reuse the pots afterward.
Oven Method
Another way to melt candle wax is by using your oven. Preheat the oven to its lowest temperature setting. Remove any labels or stickers from the candle jar and place it inside the oven. Once the wax has melted, scoop it out and reuse it. Remember not to put a jarred candle directly into the oven, as the metal discs attaching the wick to the holder may be made of metal.
Microwave Method
If you're melting paraffin wax, you can use the microwave in short intervals of 10-15 seconds at a time. However, this method may not be suitable for all types of wax, and there is a risk of ruining your microwave if the wax is not suitable. Always use a separate container, like a hard plastic measuring cup, for melting wax in the microwave, and avoid using it for food afterward.
Wax Melter
If you're planning to become a serious candle-making enthusiast, investing in a wax melter might be a good idea. Wax melters are appliances specifically designed for melting wax, with temperature control features for different types of wax. Simply plug in the wax melter, set the desired temperature, and place the solid wax into the pot. Once melted, you can easily pour out the wax through the spigot at the bottom.
Heat Gun or Hair Dryer
For melting a small layer of wax to fix issues like tunneling or buried wicks, a heat gun or hair dryer can be used. Set it to high heat and hold it about 6 inches above the wax surface. Use a wick dipper or toothpick to gently loosen any unmelted wax stuck on the sides. Continue until the wax has liquefied evenly.
When melting candle wax, always take precautions to avoid injury, keep melted wax away from children and pets, and have a fire extinguisher nearby.
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Removing wax from a jar
Freezing
Place the jar in the freezer for an hour or two. This will cause the wax to shrink and separate from the edge of the jar. Once it's frozen, remove the jar from the freezer, turn it upside down, and gently tap the bottom. The wax should slide out easily. If it doesn't, you can try using a lighter or another object to gently tap the jar.
Boiling Water
Boil some water and carefully pour it into the jar, making sure to protect the surface underneath with a towel or paper to avoid spills and heat damage. The hot water will melt the wax, which will then float to the surface. Allow the water to cool for an hour or two, then remove the wax from the surface and pour out the water.
Oven
Preheat your oven to between 150 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the jar upside down on a sheet of aluminium foil on a baking pan and put it in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the oven in case of any mishaps. When the wax has melted, remove the pan from the oven and take the jar out using an oven mitt. Let the wax cool and harden, then remove it from the foil.
Microwave
This method is not recommended for jars with metal wick holders, as they could pose a fire hazard. If your jar doesn't have a metal wick holder, you can try placing it in the microwave for up to two minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as the jar may get very hot. Once the wax has melted, let it cool and harden, then remove it from the jar.
Heat Gun or Hair Dryer
If you have a heat gun or a hairdryer, you can use it to melt the wax inside the jar. Be careful not to wear any rubber or plastic gloves when handling a heat gun, as they can melt onto your hand. You can also use a paper towel or rag to wipe away the last bits of melted wax.
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Making your own candles
Preparing the Wax
First, gather your old candles and candle remnants. Separate your moulded candles from poured candles to avoid mixing waxes with different purposes. Sort the wax bits by colour and type of wax, as mixing different colours will result in an unappealing brown colour. Place the wax bits in a melting jug or pot, ensuring it is large enough to hold all the wax. Fill the jug or pot with water about half an inch to two inches deep, and bring it to a boil. The hot water will melt the wax. You can also use a double boiler method, heating the wax up to 80°C until it is completely melted.
Cleaning the Wax
Once the wax is melted, you'll notice that all the impurities like burnt and unburnt wicks, soot, and dirt settle at the bottom of the jug or pot. Use a wicking needle or a strainer to remove these impurities. If there is a lot of dirt, you may need to filter the wax. You can then add dye and/or fragrance to the melted wax if desired, stirring well to ensure even distribution.
Preparing the Wick and Container
While the wax is melting, prepare your containers and wicks. Clean your old candle jars or select a new container such as a jar, tin, teacup, or votive glass. Ensure your container is heat-compatible, dry, and free of any residue. Measure the width of the container to select the appropriate wick size, which will ensure an even burn. Position the wick using a skewer, cocktail stick, or wick positioning tool to keep it centred and upright. Secure the wick with double-sided tape or stickers.
Pouring the Wax
Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared containers. You can use a small, flexible cup to make it easier to pour without spilling. Centre the wick as the wax hardens. Allow the wax to set completely before lighting your new candle.
Tips
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid strong scents lingering. You can also melt down old candles to create tea lights, wax melts, or fire starters. Always be cautious when handling hot wax to avoid any accidents.
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Cleaning old jars
Cleaning old candle jars can give them a new lease of life, and it's a great way to recycle. Here are some methods to try:
Freezing
Place the candle jar in the freezer overnight. The wax will freeze and shrink, making it easier to remove. In the morning, take the jar out of the freezer and turn it upside down—the wax should pop right out. If it doesn't, use a butter knife or spoon to help ease it out. This method can be used for multiple jars at once.
Boiling Water
Fill the jar with boiling water. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the surface. Leave an inch of space at the top of the jar to avoid water overflowing when you add the water. Let the water cool, then strain the water and wax residue down the sink. You may need to repeat this process to ensure all the wax is removed.
Oven
Place the candle jar upside down on a pan and put it in the oven. The wax will melt in about 15 minutes. Remove the pan and place it on a heat-safe surface. Hold the jar with a towel or pot holder and wipe the inside with a paper towel. Let the jar cool, then clean with soap and water.
Hairdryer
Use a hairdryer to soften the wax. Hold the candle with an oven mitt and turn the hairdryer to the hot setting. Direct the hairdryer at the sides and bottom of the jar to heat the wax. Once the wax is soft, lift or scrape it out with a butter knife or spoon.
Once you've removed the wax, you can clean the jar with hot, soapy water and a sponge. Dry the jar thoroughly before reusing it.
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Creative uses for leftover wax
Leftover candle wax can be reused in many ways. Before you start, you need to melt the wax and remove it from its jar. To do this, place the candle in a small pot, which you then place inside a larger pot filled with water. Bring the water to a simmer. You can also melt candle wax in the oven by preheating it to the lowest temperature setting and placing the jar inside. Remember to remove any labels or stickers first.
Once the wax is melted, scoop it out and get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Make your own candles or tea lights. You can buy wicks and refill wax kits online.
- Make your own votives. Cut a piece of wicking 2 inches taller than the votive holder. Knot one end and thread the other end through a wick tab. Dip the wicking and tab into the melted wax to coat them, then press the tab to the bottom of the holder. Pour the melted wax into the votive holder, stopping 1/2 inch below the rim.
- Make floral wax sachets. These can make lovely gifts.
- Use it in a candle warmer.
- Make wax drippings. These can be removed from most candle holders by running hot water over them.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to do this. One method is to melt the wax by placing the jar in a small pot of simmering water. You can also melt the wax in the oven by preheating the oven to its lowest setting and placing the jar inside. If you want to avoid melting the wax, place the jar in the freezer. This will cause the wax to shrink and pop out.
Leftover wax can be reused in several ways. You can make your own candles or tea lights by purchasing wicks and wax from craft stores. You can also add the wax to a candle warmer or make floral wax sachets.
Wash your old candle jars just like you would any other dish and dry them thoroughly.
You will need a wick, a wick tab, a skewer or chopstick, and wax. You can purchase these supplies from craft stores or candle companies such as Swan Creek Candle Company.
Different types of wax have different melting points, so it is important to know what type of wax you are using. Common types of wax include paraffin wax, synthetic wax, soy wax, coconut wax, palm wax, beeswax, stearic acid, and gelled mineral oil.
