Maddie James
Empty candle jars are a common household item that can be reused in a variety of ways. Many people enjoy burning candles but are unsure what to do with the jars once the wick has burned out. Recycling is an option for most candle jars made of clear soda-lime glass, but there are alternative ways to repurpose them for use around the home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recycling | Possible for most jars made of clear soda-lime glass |
| Repurposing | Storage, decor, food fermentation, food prep, planters, soap dispensers, tealight holders, etc. |
| Refilling | Can be refilled with wax to make new candles |
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What You'll Learn
Use them for storage
Empty candle jars can be used for storage in a variety of ways. Before using them for storage, it is important to clean them thoroughly. This can be done by freezing the jar to make the wax brittle and easier to remove, or by pouring hot water into the jar to melt the wax and wiping it clean. A gentle scrub with a mixture of warm water and vinegar can also help remove stubborn residue. Labels and stickers can be removed by soaking the jars in warm, soapy water for a few hours or overnight, and then gently peeling off the label. For any remaining adhesive, applying a mixture of baking soda and cooking oil and letting it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a soft cloth can be effective.
Once the jars are clean, they can be used for a variety of storage purposes. In the bathroom, they can be used to hold toothbrushes, toothpaste, cotton wool, and makeup. In the living room, they can be used as planters for small houseplants or succulents. In the kitchen, they can be used to store dry goods like beans, grains, and other bulk items, or to store prepared food like salads and overnight oats. They can also be used as soap dispensers or to store spare change.
Candle jars can also be used for more creative storage purposes. For example, they can be used to hold clippings from houseplants like pothos, philodendron, and monstera, which can form new roots in water. They can also be used as tealight holders or to display pretty blooms as a Spring centerpiece.
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Make new candles
Making new candles out of old candle jars is a fun way to keep costs low and candle-making sustainable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Remove the Old Wax
Start by removing the old wax from your candle jar. You can do this by freezing the jar to make the wax brittle and easier to pop out, or by gently heating the jar on the stovetop or in an oven at a temperature lower than 200°F (93.3°C) to melt the wax and then wiping it clean.
Step 2: Clean the Jar
Once the wax is removed, clean the jar thoroughly to remove any remaining wax residue. You can use a mixture of warm water and vinegar, or baking soda and cooking oil, and wipe it down with a soft cloth. If there are any labels or stickers on the jar, soak them in warm, soapy water first, and then gently peel them off.
Step 3: Prepare the New Wax
Now it's time to melt your new wax. You can use a microwave, a stovetop, or a double boiler. If using a microwave, place the wax in a glass dish and heat it in 30-second intervals until it's completely melted. If using a stovetop or double boiler, heat water in the bottom pot and place the wax in a pouring pot or the top of the double boiler. Keep the flame on the lowest heat possible and stir until all the wax melts.
Step 4: Add Colour and Scent (Optional)
If you want to add colour to your candle, you can use colour chips, blocks, or liquid dye. Break up the chips or blocks with a knife and add them to the melted wax, stirring until you achieve your desired colour. You can also add essential oils or candle scents to create a fragrant candle. Experiment with different combinations to create unique scents.
Step 5: Pour the Wax into the Jar
Allow the wax to cool slightly before pouring it into your prepared candle jar. Pour the wax slowly and steadily to avoid spilling. Leave the wax to cool and set for at least 24 hours before lighting your new candle.
Step 6: Trim the Wick
Once the wax has cooled and set, trim the wick to about 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) from the top of the candle. Now your new candle is ready to be enjoyed!
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Make a soap dispenser
Empty candle jars can be reused, recycled, or repurposed in a variety of ways. One popular option is to turn them into soap dispensers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a soap dispenser from an empty candle jar:
- Clean the Jar: Start by thoroughly cleaning your empty candle jar. Remove any remaining wax residue by freezing the jar to make the wax brittle and easier to pop out, or by pouring hot water into the jar to melt and wipe away the wax. You can also try a gentle scrub with warm water and vinegar for stubborn residue.
- Find a Pump Dispenser: Look for a pump dispenser that fits the opening of your jar. You may be able to repurpose a pump from an old soap or lotion bottle. Ensure that the pump fits securely by drilling a hole in the jar's lid or modifying it as needed.
- Fill with Soap: Choose your favourite liquid soap and fill the jar. You can make your own liquid soap from soap bars or purchase bulk soap to fill your dispenser.
- Attach the Pump: Securely attach the pump to the jar. You may need to use a drill to make a hole in the jar's lid, depending on the pump's size and the jar's opening.
- Final Touches: Decorate your soap dispenser to match your style or the decor of your bathroom or kitchen. Consider painting the jar, adding ribbons or decals, or leaving it as-is for a minimalist look.
By following these steps, you can create a unique, eco-friendly soap dispenser that adds a personal touch to your home. Reusing candle jars is a creative and sustainable way to reduce waste and avoid throwing away usable containers. You can also explore other ideas to repurpose empty candle jars, such as using them for food storage, regrowing food scraps, or even as decorative containers for small plants.
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Use for food prep and storage
Empty candle jars can be used for food preparation and storage, but it is important to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue first. Here are some ways to do this:
- Freeze the jar to make the wax brittle, then pop out the hardened wax.
- Pour hot water into the jar to melt the wax, then wipe it clean.
- Use a gentle scrub with a mixture of warm water and vinegar to remove stubborn residue.
- Soak the jar in warm, soapy water for a few hours or overnight to remove labels or stickers.
- Apply a mixture of baking soda and cooking oil to remove any remaining adhesive.
Once your candle jar is clean, here are some ideas for using it for food prep and storage:
- Use the jar to prep food like salads, overnight oats, or meals for consumption later in the week.
- Store dry goods like beans, grains, and other bulk items in the jar instead of using plastic bags.
- Utilize the jar for food fermentation, provided the glass is food-safe. Kimchis, sauerkraut, and fire cider are all great options.
- Regrow food scraps like green onions, celery, leafy vegetables, and bean sprouts in jars without lids by placing the scraps in water and providing sunlight.
- Store herbs for tea in the jar.
- Use the jar as a stylish soap dispenser by cleaning it, removing wax residue, finding a pump dispenser that fits, and filling it with liquid soap.
Remember, it is important to ensure that any scented candles in the jar did not contain chemicals that could be harmful if they come into contact with food. Always wash jars by hand with dish soap and water, as using a dishwasher could strip away the colour coating and decorations.
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Make a planter
If you're looking for a way to repurpose your empty candle jars, why not try making a planter? This simple project will add a unique, decorative touch to your home or garden and costs almost nothing.
First, you'll need to remove any remaining wax from your candle jar. There are several ways to do this. You can place the jar in the freezer for half an hour or until the wax becomes brittle and easy to chip out with a knife. Alternatively, you can fill a pot with water and heat it on the stove until just before it boils. Carefully place the jar in the water using tongs, ensuring the water level is slightly lower than the height of the jar. The wax will start to melt, and you can then remove the jar with tongs and pour the wax into a disposable container.
Once the wax has been removed, you may need to clean the jar with soap and water to get rid of any remaining residue. You can also use a mixture of warm water and vinegar and wipe the jar with a soft cloth to keep it crystal clear. If there are any labels or stickers on the jar, you can remove them by soaking the jar in warm, soapy water for a few hours or overnight and then gently peeling off the label. For any remaining adhesive, apply a mixture of baking soda and cooking oil, leave it for a few minutes, and then wipe it away with a soft cloth.
Now that your jar is clean, it's time to consider drainage. If your jar is metal, you can drill holes in the bottom. However, most candle jars are made of glass or ceramic, which will likely crack if you try to drill into them. Instead, you can add a natural form of drainage to the bottom of the jar, such as a layer of rocks.
When choosing plants for your new planter, it's best to avoid moisture-loving varieties as they may not do well without proper drainage. Succulents, cacti, herbs, small bromeliads, ivy, and annual flowering plants are all great options. Fill your jar one-third of the way with planting soil, add your plant, and you're done! You can also use your planter as a rooting container for cuttings from your favourite houseplants.
With a little creativity, you can transform your empty candle jars into beautiful planters that will brighten up your space.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to repurpose empty candle jars. You can use them for storage, as planters, as soap dispensers, or even as drinking glasses.
To remove wax, place the jar upside down in an oven at less than 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and place a tray lined with parchment paper underneath to collect the wax. Alternatively, freeze the jar to make the wax brittle and easier to pop out.
Yes, most candle jars can be recycled, especially if they are made of clear soda-lime glass. However, it is always better to repurpose the jars if possible.
You can use your cleaned candle jars to store dry foods like beans, grains, herbs, or other bulk items. You can also use them to store small items like paper clips, buttons, or toiletries.
Yes, candle jars can be used as planters for small houseplants or succulents. Just be sure to use a jar with a drainage hole or ensure that the plant has another way to drain water.
