Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but they can be expensive and wasteful. Luckily, there are many ways to reuse old candles and their wax. Whether you're a candle-making novice or enthusiast, you can create new candles, wax melts, fire starters, or even use the wax to polish wooden furniture. You can also reuse the containers for drinking glasses, plant pots, or even as storage for new candles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reuse candle wax | Make new candles, wax melts, fire starters, waterproof canvas |
| Reuse candle containers | Drinking glasses, plant pots, storage |
| Make new candles | Melt wax, add wick, pour into container, let it set |
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What You'll Learn
Make new candles
Making new candles from old ones is a sustainable and cost-effective way to repurpose leftover wax and candle containers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make new candles from old ones:
Preparing the Wax
Firstly, gather all your candle remnants, which can include half-used, broken, or small stub candles. Remove any leftover wicks, matchsticks, and as much dirt as possible. If your candle container is microwave-safe, you can melt the wax by heating it gently in the microwave and then pouring it into a new container. If not, use a double boiler or a pot with some water on the stove to melt the wax. Place the wax pieces in the top part of the double boiler or in a heat-safe bowl. You can also use an electric candle warmer to heat the candle from the bottom and then pour out the melted wax.
Melting the Wax
Fill the bottom of your double boiler or a separate pot with water and place it on the stove over medium heat. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Ensure that the wax melts slowly and stir occasionally. Most waxes melt at around 160-180°F (70-80°C).
Preparing the Container
While the wax is melting, prepare your containers. If reusing old candle containers, clean them thoroughly with hot water and soap to remove any wax residue. Dry them completely before sticking the wick down. Use double-sided tape or stickers to secure the wick in your desired position. You can also use melted wax or a wick sticker to attach the wick to the bottom of the container.
Adding Scents and Colours
Once the wax has fully melted, you can add any desired extras such as colour dyes or fragrance oils. Start with small amounts and build up the quantities gradually. Too much dye or oil can affect how well the candle burns, so it is best to use less. Stir well to evenly distribute the colour and scent.
Pouring the Wax
Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared containers, ensuring that the wick remains upright and centred. Place the wick around a pencil or skewer to keep it in place.
Setting the Candle
Let the candle wax cool and harden completely. This may take several hours, depending on the size of the candle. Once the candle is fully hardened, you can remove it from the mould or leave it in the holder. Allow the candle to set for at least 24 hours before lighting it.
Safety and Precautions
Always use a double boiler to melt the candles and keep flammable materials away. Be cautious when handling hot wax to avoid burns. Ensure that your containers are compatible with heat to prevent shattering. Choose the right wick for your candle to ensure an even burn at a safe temperature.
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Make wax melts
Making wax melts is a great way to reuse old candles. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Wax
First, ensure your candle is completely extinguished with no embers remaining on the wick. You can blow it out and wait a minute for it to cool, then pull out the wick. If there is a lot of wax remaining, you can let it burn until it melts all the way.
Step 2: Melt the Wax
To melt the wax, do not use a microwave as many candles have metal at the base of the wick. Instead, place your candle in a small pot and fill a larger pot with water. Bring the water to a simmer and place the small pot inside. You can also use an electric kettle to boil water. Different types of wax have different melting points, so some waxes may take longer to melt.
Step 3: Prepare Your Mould
While the wax is melting, prepare your mould. You can use a silicone mould or any kind of dish or jar, but avoid plastic as it may melt. Place your mould on a paper towel, cardboard box, or newspaper to catch any spills.
Step 4: Pour the Wax
Carefully pour the melted wax into your mould. Fill it mostly to the top and let it cool. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the mould in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
Step 5: Remove the Wax Melts
Once the wax is cool to the touch and somewhat hardened, pop the wax melts out of the mould. Leave them on a paper towel to cool completely.
Tips and Variations:
- You can add a few drops of essential oil to your melted wax to create unique fragrances.
- If you want to create layered scents, melt and pour different scented waxes in layers.
- If you have broken candle jars, you can use a butter knife or spoon to scoop out the wax and melt it in a wax warmer.
- Always take precautions when working with hot wax and lit candles. Use oven mitts if necessary.
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Make fire starters
Old candles can be reused to make fire starters. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Firstly, you need to remove the wax from your old candle jars. The easiest way to do this is to freeze the candles and then use a small knife to scrape out the wax. You can also melt the wax by placing the candle in the microwave, but only do this if the candle is in a glass jar, and make sure to remove the wick first. Alternatively, place the candle in a saucepan over low heat, or use the double boiler method.
Once you have removed the wax, you can start to assemble your fire starters. One option is to use an egg carton and fill each cup with laundry dryer lint. Don't pack it too tightly. Then, melt your wax and pour it over the lint, ensuring it is completely saturated. Leave it to dry, then cut the egg cups into individual fire starters.
Another method is to use a muffin tin lined with paper muffin liners. Add small pinecones, star anise, cinnamon sticks, or herbs to each liner, along with a wick. Carefully pour the melted wax into the liners, ensuring any added ingredients stay in place. Let the wax set completely before using.
You can also add essential oils to your wax to give it a scent, or use dried herbs and spices to create a natural fragrance. Some people also use twigs, sawdust, wood shavings, rosemary, mint, and bay leaves.
Once your fire starters are ready, simply place one under the logs in your fireplace and light it. It will stay lit long enough for the fire to catch hold.
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Waterproof canvas bags
If you have old candles lying around, you can reuse the wax to make new candles or to waterproof canvas bags.
Making new candles from old wax
To make new candles from old wax, you can melt down the old wax and pour it into a new container with a new wick. You can also combine wax from multiple candles to create a new scent or a layered candle. It is recommended to melt the wax in a double boiler and to line your surface with wax paper to prevent spills. You can also purchase candle refill kits online, which include new wicks and wax.
Waterproofing canvas bags with old candle wax
You can also use old candle wax to waterproof your canvas bags. Before beginning the waterproofing process, make sure your bag is clean, dry, and free of debris. Test the wax on an inconspicuous area of the bag, as the treatment may change the colour and texture of the canvas. You can use a mix of paraffin and beeswax or 100% organic wax. To apply the wax, you can rub a block of wax directly onto the canvas or melt the wax and use a brush to spread it on the bag. If you melt the wax, be sure to let it cool slightly before applying it to the bag. You can use a hair dryer to help the wax penetrate all crevices and seams. For extra protection, you can apply wax to the inside of the bag as well. Once you are finished, put the bag into an old pillowcase and put it in the dryer for 15 to 30 minutes to set the wax.
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Reuse containers for drinking glasses, plant pots, etc
Old candle containers can be reused in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for reusing containers as drinking glasses and plant pots, as well as some additional suggestions:
Drinking Glasses
Reusing glass jars as drinking glasses is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to reduce waste and add a unique charm to your drinkware collection. Choose jars with thick glass and wide openings, such as mason jars or pasta sauce jars, for durability and ease of use. Smaller jars can be used as alternative shot glasses, offering a rustic look for your drinks.
Plant Pots
Glass jars can also be reused as plant pots for flowers, succulents, or herbs. You can decorate the jars with paint or twine to give them a more rustic or personalised look.
Other Reuse Ideas for Containers
- Storage for painting supplies, sewing kits, or spices
- Organising drawers or shelves
- Mixing custom paint colours
- Holding water for rinsing paintbrushes
- Marinating meat
- Soap dispenser
- Bird feeder
- Holiday decor
Reusing Old Candle Wax
In addition to reusing the containers, you can also repurpose the leftover candle wax. One option is to melt the wax and paint it onto a canvas to create a unique artwork. Alternatively, you can make new candles by melting the leftover wax and pouring it into a new container with a wick.
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Frequently asked questions
One way to remove wax from old candle jars is to place them in the freezer. Once the wax is frozen, stab it with a butter knife and it should crack right out.
You can melt down old beeswax candles and paint it on a canvas with a paintbrush. You can also melt the wax and use it to make new candles, wax melts, and fire starters.
First, melt the wax in a double boiler. Then, pour the wax into a container with a new candle wick added. Allow the wax to set completely.
Old candle containers can be reused as drinking glasses, plant pots, or even new candle jars.
You will need a container for your new candle, such as a jar or tin, as well as a new wick. You may also want to use a double boiler to melt the wax and a strainer to remove any impurities.
