Chloe Adams
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but what happens when the wax runs out? Throwing away the container can feel wasteful, especially if it's a beautiful jar. The good news is that there are endless ways to repurpose old candle containers, from creating new candles to finding creative uses around the home. In this article, we'll explore various eco-friendly options for giving your old candle containers a second life, adding a touch of charm and creativity to your space.
What to do with old candle containers
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reuse | Storage for office supplies, bathroom supplies, makeup, jewellery, coins, etc. |
| Plant pots, toothbrush holder, vase, drinking glasses, liquor glasses | |
| Food storage, carry drinks on the go, store tea, dried herbs, spices, etc. | |
| Make new candles, use wax in a candle melter | |
| Recycle | Glass is recyclable, but some jurisdictions state candle glass is not |
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What You'll Learn
Use them as storage for small items
Old candle containers can be reused as storage for small items. This is an eco-friendly way to repurpose the containers and add a touch of creativity and charm to your home.
Firstly, you need to clean the candle containers. To do this, you can place the containers in the freezer for a couple of hours until the wax is frozen. Then, use a butter knife to pop out the frozen wax. Alternatively, you can pour boiling water directly into the candle jar, allowing the wax to float to the top. Once the water has cooled, the wax will harden, and you can simply pick it out.
Once the wax is removed, you can reuse the containers for storage. Here are some ideas for using old candle containers for storing small items:
- Bathroom storage: Old candle containers can be used to store Q-tips, cotton pads, and other bathroom essentials.
- Desk accessory: Use the containers to store pens, paper clips, scissors, and other office supplies.
- Vanity storage: If you have too many lip glosses or other small cosmetics, you can use the containers to store them in a chic and convenient way.
- Jewellery box: Candle containers with lids, especially ceramic ones, can be used to store rings, earrings, and other small pieces of jewellery.
- Kitchen storage: Use the containers to store tea, dried herbs, spices, or sugar. The whole-leaf teas can add to the decor of your kitchen when stored in clear glass.
- Shed or workspace storage: Old candle jars are ideal for storing small items like labels, ties, pegs, garden accessories, art supplies, or tools.
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Make them into drinking glasses
Old candle containers can be reused in many ways, such as for storing food, regrowing food scraps, or even as drinking glasses.
Making old candle containers into drinking glasses is a creative and sustainable way to reuse them. To do this, you must first remove any remaining wax residue. One way to do this is by carefully pouring boiling water into the candle jar. The hot water will cause the wax to float to the top of the jar. Allow the water to cool, then discard the wax. You can use a spoon or paper towel to wipe away any remaining wax residue.
Next, remove the wick at the bottom of the jar. Be careful not to scratch the glass while doing this. You can use a butter knife to gently lift and remove the wick. Once the wax and wick are removed, wash the jar thoroughly with warm, soapy water.
After completing these steps, your old candle container will be transformed into a stylish and eco-friendly drinking glass, perfect for cocktails or any of your favourite drinks.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can even turn your old candle containers into new candles. To do this, you will need to clean the containers thoroughly and select the appropriate wick type and wax based on the container's shape and size. You can find candle-making supplies at craft stores or online.
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Use them as plant pots
Old candle containers can be reused as plant pots. Before using the container as a plant pot, you need to remove the wax. You can do this by melting the wax and pouring it out, or by freezing the candle and then using a butter knife to crack the wax out. After removing the wax, you can use tongs or tweezers to pull out the wick. Then, use an old rag or paper towels to wipe out any remaining wax residue. Be careful not to burn yourself, as the container will still be hot. Finally, rinse the container with soap and water, and let it dry before adding soil and plants.
It is important to note that plants should not be allowed to grow in jars for too long, as the roots could rot due to a lack of drainage. To address this issue, you can drill a hole through the bottom of the container using a glass or tile drill bit. Alternatively, you can place a plastic nursery pot with drainage holes inside the candle container.
You can also use old candle containers to regrow food scraps such as green onions, celery, leafy vegetables, and bean sprouts. Simply place the scraps in water and let them get a little sunlight.
Old candle containers can also be used for storing and organizing various items such as hair ties, Q-tips, makeup, office supplies, and small kitchen items.
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Make your own candles
Making your own candles is a great way to reuse old candle containers. It's a fun and creative process that can also be a more affordable alternative to buying new candles. Here are some steps and tips to guide you through the process:
Removing Old Wax
Before making your own candles, you'll need to remove any remaining wax from the old containers. There are several ways to do this:
- Freezer Method: Place the candle containers in the freezer for a few hours until the wax is frozen. Then, use a butter knife to pop out the frozen wax. Breaking up the wax a bit before freezing can make it easier to remove.
- Boiling Water Method: Fill the candle containers with boiling water and let it sit for a while. The hot water will melt the wax, causing it to float to the top. Wait for the water to cool, then remove the hardened wax.
- Stovetop Method: Place the container in a deep pan or pot with enough water to cover its sides. Heat it slowly until the wax melts, then pour out the liquid wax.
Choosing the Right Wax and Wick
When making your own candles, it's important to select the appropriate type of wax and wick for the size and shape of your container. Different types of wax burn differently, and using the wrong type of wick can pose a fire hazard. Ensure that you do your research to choose the right combination of wax and wick for your container.
Adding Scents and Colours
Customise your candles by adding essential oils to the melted wax. This allows you to create candles with your favourite fragrances. You can also experiment with different colours by adding candle dye or using coloured wax.
Pouring and Setting
Once you've prepared your wax, it's time to pour it into your cleaned and dried containers. Centre your wick in the middle of the container and secure it in place. You can use a pencil or a chopstick across the top of the container to hold the wick in place while the wax sets.
Finishing Touches
After your candles have set completely, you can trim the wicks and add any decorative touches, such as labels or ribbons. Your homemade candles are now ready to be displayed or gifted to your loved ones!
Remember to take the necessary safety precautions when making your own candles, especially when handling hot wax and open flames. Enjoy the process of creating your unique candles and the warmth and ambiance they bring to your space.
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Use them for food storage
Old candle containers can be used for storing various food items. Before using old candle containers for food storage, it is important to ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue. It is also crucial to check that the jars have not previously contained scented candles with chemicals that could be harmful if they come into contact with food.
One way to repurpose old candle containers for food storage is to use them as jars for bulk items such as dry beans, grains, teas, dried herbs, and spices. By transferring these items from plastic packaging into glass jars with tight-sealing lids, you can extend their shelf life and reduce plastic waste. Additionally, storing whole-leaf teas in clear glass jars can add a decorative touch to your kitchen.
Old candle containers can also be used for meal prep, such as storing salads and overnight oats. When packing salad ingredients, it is recommended to keep liquid ingredients, like salad dressing, at the bottom of the jar to prevent the other ingredients from becoming soggy. You can also use old candle containers to store prepped food in the refrigerator or pantry.
Another creative way to use old candle containers for food storage is to preserve lemons. All you need is a glass jar, lemons, and salt. The lemons will stay fresh as long as the liquid level is maintained above the fruit, and you can add the briny citrus to salad dressings or seafood dishes for a unique flavor.
Old candle containers can also be handy for carrying drinks on the go. You can use a jar with a lid to carry cold brew or iced tea to work and store it in the fridge. This sustainable practice reduces the use of plastic and keeps your beverage cool and fresh.
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Frequently asked questions
Old candle containers can be reused for various purposes, such as storing office supplies, hair ties, makeup, or small kitchen items. They can also be used for regrowing food scraps, as long as the jars are thoroughly cleaned and any wax residue is removed.
To clean old candle containers, you can remove any remaining wax by freezing the jar and popping out the hardened wax or by warming the jar slightly to melt and pour out the wax. You can also boil water and pour it into the jar to melt the wax, which can then be moulded into a new candle.
Glass candle containers can be recycled, although some jurisdictions may not accept them due to the difficulty of keeping colours separated and contamination issues.
Yes, you can make new candles using old containers. However, it is important to ensure you are using the correct type of wick for the width of the jar and the type of wax to avoid fire hazards.
Old candle containers can be used for DIY crafts, planters, vases, bathroom organisers, or even as storage for dry food items like beans, grains, teas, herbs, and spices.
