Ben Carter
There are many ways to repurpose old candle jars and lids, from reusing them as storage containers for food or other small items to getting creative and using them for DIY projects. Repurposing candle jars is not only eco-friendly but also adds a touch of creativity and charm to your home.
What to do with old candle lids:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store things like nails, screws, coins, jewellery, spices, sugar, salt, etc. |
| Food | Use for food storage, prep, or fermentation. Can also be used to steam eggs. |
| Planters | Use as a planter for small plants like succulents or herbs. |
| Creative | Use for creative projects like making new candles, fairy lights, or terrariums. |
| Eco-friendly | Repurpose the lids to reduce waste and be more environmentally friendly. |
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What You'll Learn
Use them for storage
Old candle jars with lids can be used for storage in a variety of ways. Firstly, they can be used as containers for small items such as paper clips, buttons, nails, screws, coins, and other knick-knacks. The clear glass of some jars makes it easy to see what's inside. You can even personalise them with paint, ribbons, or decals to match your decor.
Secondly, candle jars are great for storing food items like dry beans, grains, teas, dried herbs, spices, and other bulk items. Transferring these items from plastic packaging to glass jars with tight-sealing lids will help them last longer. You can also use them to store homemade jams, jellies, preserves, and curds, sugar, and salt. Just make sure to keep these items in the fridge, as jars being used for the second time may not be hermetically sealed.
Thirdly, old candle jars are perfect for storing and organising your jewellery. They can safely keep your rings, earrings, and other small pieces, while also adding a decorative touch to your space.
Lastly, you can use candle jars for food preparation and storage. They can be used to prep food like salads, parfaits, smoothies, and overnight oats. Just make sure to keep any liquid ingredients at the bottom of the jar to prevent sogginess. Candle jars are also great for storing food in the freezer, just remember to leave some extra space at the top to allow for expansion.
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Make a closed terrarium
Old candle jars can be used to create closed terrariums. Terrariums are self-contained ecosystems that offer a fascinating look at the delicate balance of plant life. Closed terrariums are sealed environments that create a humid microclimate perfect for tropical plants.
Step 1: Gather the Materials
First, you will need to gather the necessary materials. For the terrarium, you will need a clear glass candle jar with a lid, rocks or pebbles, moss, soil, and any decorations you want to include. You can use acrylic for the lid, which is cheaper and lighter than glass. Alternatively, you can use cling film as a temporary solution, but it tends to get dusty.
Step 2: Prepare the Drainage Layer
Start by creating a drainage layer at the bottom of your candle jar. Add about an inch of clay pebbles, aquarium gravel, or river stones. This layer is essential for proper drainage and will help prevent root rot.
Step 3: Add Activated Charcoal
Sprinkle a layer of activated charcoal on top of the drainage layer. This step will help keep your terrarium fresh and prevent fungal growth.
Step 4: Add Moss and Soil
Cover the charcoal with a layer of sheet moss, ensuring no charcoal is visible. This layer will act as a barrier between the drainage layer and the soil. Lightly dampen the soil and spread a layer about an inch thick over the moss. This provides a base for your plants to root and grow.
Step 5: Plant Selection and Arrangement
Choose dwarf species or slow-growing plants suitable for a humid environment. Before removing the plants from their pots, envision your terrarium's layout. Taller plants will generally look best in the center or back of the jar. Use long tweezers to position the plants and long scissors to trim any extra-long roots. Begin planting around the edges and gradually work your way towards the center.
Step 6: Decorate and Maintain
Now, you can decorate your miniature garden with seashells, rocks, or small fairy accessories. Observe your terrarium closely and adjust care as needed. Closed-lid terrariums are self-watering ecosystems, so they rarely need additional moisture. If excessive condensation builds up, remove the lid temporarily. If the soil feels dry, spray it with water. Remember to open your closed terrarium now and then to allow for fresh air exchange.
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Use for food preparation and storage
Old candle jars with lids can be used for food preparation and storage. Before using old candle jars for food storage, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue. Also, ensure the jars have not previously contained any scented candles with chemicals that could be harmful if they come into contact with food.
Old candle jars are great for storing dry foods such as beans, grains, teas, dried herbs, and spices purchased in bulk or plastic packaging. These foods will last longer if transferred and stored in glass jars with tight-sealing lids. Whole-leaf teas in clear glass jars also add to the decor of any kitchen. You can also use old candle jars to prep food like salads and overnight oats for consumption later in the week. If there's liquid in the jar, like a salad dressing, keep it on the bottom layer so the rest of the ingredients won't be soggy by the time you eat.
Old candle jars can also be used to store homemade jams, jellies, preserves, and curds in the fridge. However, jars being used a second time cannot be hermetically sealed unless they are Mason-style jars with new rings and flat lids. You can also use old candle jars to steam eggs by submerging them in simmering water on the stovetop.
Old candle jars with lids can also be used to carry drinks like cold brew or iced tea to work and can be kept in the fridge in the same container.
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As a jewellery box
Old candle jars with lids can be reused as jewellery boxes. Before using the candle jar for storing jewellery, it is important to clean it thoroughly. There are several ways to do this. One way is to place the candle jar in the freezer for at least an hour and then use a butter knife or spoon to pop out the remaining wax. If the wax does not come out easily, you can gently break it into pieces and let them fall out. Once most of the wax is removed, the wick and its holder can be pulled out with your fingers or a pair of pliers. Finally, wash the jar with hot soapy water to remove any residue.
Alternatively, you can try the hot water method if you do not have enough freezer space. Boil a cup of water and carefully pour it into the candle jar. The hot water will melt the wax, allowing it to float to the top. After removing the wax, peel off any labels and wash the jar with hot soapy water.
Once the jar is clean, it can be used to store various types of jewellery. Rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and other small pieces of jewellery can be kept safe and organised in the candle jar. The lid will help keep the jewellery secure and prevent it from getting dusty.
Candle jars with lids can add a touch of elegance and charm to your space. They are perfect for storing and displaying your jewellery collection. You can choose to keep the candle jar as it is or decorate it to match your personal style and space aesthetics.
Using old candle jars with lids as jewellery boxes is a creative and eco-friendly way to repurpose them. Not only does it give the jar a second life, but it also provides a unique and stylish storage solution for your jewellery.
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Make new candles
Old candle jars can be reused to make new candles. This is a fun way to keep costs low and engage in a candle-making hobby. Here are some steps and ideas to get you started:
Removing Old Wax
To remove the old wax from your candle jars, place them in the freezer to harden the remaining wax. This makes it easier to pop the wax out of the jar. Alternatively, you can slightly warm the jar to melt the wax and pour it out. Make sure to use up all the wax to be environmentally friendly.
Cleaning the Jar
To use your candle jars for new candles, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue. Remove labels or stickers by soaking the jars in warm, soapy water for a few hours or overnight. Gently peel off the labels, and for any remaining adhesive, apply a mixture of baking soda and cooking oil. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a soft cloth.
Sourcing Wax and Wicks
You can purchase wax melts or blocks of wax from craft stores or online suppliers. Candle-making kits are also available, providing you with the necessary tools and instructions. Look for natural waxes like soy, and be mindful of scented wax, ensuring they are free of harmful chemicals. Wicks can be purchased separately or as part of a kit, and you can experiment with different types of wicks to find your preference.
Adding Scents and Colours
Get creative and experiment with different scents and colours for your candles. Essential oils can be added to the melted wax to create scented candles, and you can find fragrance oils specifically designed for candle making. Always ensure the fragrances you use are safe and non-toxic. Additionally, you can add candle dyes or use natural colourants like beetroot powder or chlorophyll for a subtle hue.
Melting and Pouring
Melt your wax in a double boiler or a dedicated candle-making melting pot. Follow the instructions for your chosen type of wax regarding melting temperature and time. Once melted, carefully pour the wax into your cleaned and dried candle jars. Center your wicks and hold them in place with a wick holder or by securing them between chopsticks laid across the jar's mouth.
Setting and Curing
Allow your candles to cool and set completely before trimming the wicks to the appropriate length. You may need to wait a few days for the wax to cure fully and harden. Once cured, your new candles are ready to be enjoyed or gifted.
Making new candles from old candle jars is a fun and sustainable activity. You can experiment with different waxes, scents, and colours to create unique candles that add charm to your home or make thoughtful presents for friends and family.
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Frequently asked questions
Old candle jars with lids can be reused in many creative ways. They can be used as storage containers for spices, sugar, salt, or dried tea leaves. They can also be used as a jewellery box or a stylish toothbrush holder.
Old candle jars without lids can be used for food fermentation. They can also be used as containers for regrowing food scraps like green onions, celery, leafy vegetables, and bean sprouts.
To remove sticky labels from old candle jars, you can soak the jars in warm soapy water for a few hours or overnight. For any remaining adhesive, apply a mixture of baking soda and cooking oil, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away with a soft cloth.
