Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to illuminate your space and create a cosy atmosphere, but what do you do with the jar once the wick has completely burned out? Recycling is an option for most old jars made of clear soda-lime glass, but there are also many ways to reuse your candle jars around the home or as gifts.
What to do with old candles in a jar
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reuse | Use as packaging for gifts, storage containers, candle holders, fairy lights, a vase, or a soap dispenser |
| Recycle | Clear soda-lime glass jars can be recycled with other glass waste |
| Clean | Remove wax residue by freezing the jar, warming the jar, or using hot water; clean the jar with vinegar and water or baking soda and oil |
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What You'll Learn
Use them as storage containers for items like paper clips, buttons, or spices
Old candle jars can be reused as storage containers for small items like paper clips, buttons, and spices. Before reusing the jar, it is important to clean it thoroughly and remove any leftover wax. 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. For stubborn residue, a gentle scrub with a mixture of warm water and vinegar can be effective.
Once the jar is clean and dry, it can be used for storage in various ways. For example, larger candle jars can be used to store paper clips, buttons, and other small items, keeping them organized and within easy reach. Smaller jars can be used to store spices, herbs, or other pantry items, adding a unique touch to your kitchen. You can even personalize your jars with paint, ribbons, or decals to match your decor or create a uniform look for your storage containers.
Additionally, old candle jars can be used for storage in the bathroom. They are perfect for holding items such as Q-tips, cotton balls, hair ties, and even toothbrushes and toothpaste. If your jar has a lid, it can help keep the contents clean and dust-free. For taller items like pens, pencils, or scissors, opt for a larger, taller candle jar.
Old candle jars can also be used for storage in the office or workspace. They can hold various office supplies, including pens, pencils, staples, paper clips, and small Post-it notes. Using these jars for storage can help reduce clutter and keep your workspace organized and efficient.
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Use them as a vase or a pot for plants
Old candle jars can be reused as vases or pots for plants. Before reusing the jar, it is important to clean it out and remove any remnants of wax. 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.
Once the jar is clean, it can be used as a vase for flowers or as a pot for small plants. Tall, plain glass jars are particularly well-suited for use as vases, as they can protect the flame of a candle placed inside. Small jars can be used to host starter plants before their roots grow too large and they need to be transplanted. However, it is important to note that plants should not be allowed to grow in the jars for too long, as the roots may rot due to a lack of drainage once the plant reaches a certain size.
Candle jars can also be decorated before being reused as vases or plant pots. They can be painted, or personalised with ribbons or decals to match one's decor. However, if using paint, it is important to use a type that can handle high heat.
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Use them as a gift hamper by arranging small gifts inside
Old candle jars can be reused in many ways, including as a gift hamper. Here are some detailed ideas on how to use them as a gift hamper by arranging small gifts inside:
Beauty Hamper
Small beauty items such as beauty minis, hair accessories, or makeup can be arranged inside a clean candle jar and gifted to friends or loved ones. A small bow can be added for a finishing touch.
Office Supplies Hamper
Old candle jars can be used to arrange and gift office supplies such as pens, pencils, paper clips, and small post-it notes. This can be a thoughtful gift for students or professionals.
Self-Care Hamper
Create a self-care hamper by arranging items such as small candles, bath salts, or essential oils in the jar. This can be a relaxing gift for someone who needs some pampering.
Foodie Hamper
Fill the jar with small food items such as individually packaged cookies, chocolates, tea bags, or spices. This can be a tasty gift for a foodie friend or a great way to introduce someone to new flavours.
Craft Supplies Hamper
Arrange small craft supplies such as paintbrushes, markers, washi tape, or stickers inside the jar. This can be a fun gift for creative friends or family members who enjoy crafting.
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Use them as a soap dispenser
Old candle jars can be reused in a variety of ways, including as soap dispensers. Here are some steps to transform your old candle jars into soap dispensers:
Cleaning the Jar
Start by removing any leftover candle wax from the jar. One effective method is to freeze the jar, causing the wax to contract and become loose. You can also try soaking the jar in warm, soapy water for a few hours or days, which will make the wax easier to remove. After removing the wax, scrub the jar with warm water and dish soap to eliminate any residue.
Removing Labels and Stickers
To remove labels or stickers, soak the jar in warm, soapy water for a few hours or overnight. Gently peel off the label, and use a mixture of baking soda and cooking oil to remove any remaining adhesive. Wipe it away with a soft cloth.
Finding a Pump Dispenser
Purchase a new canning lid with a built-in pump dispenser. These lids typically come in metal or plastic and can be found online or at home goods stores. Screw the lid onto your cleaned jar, and you're almost ready to use your new soap dispenser!
Filling the Dispenser
You can fill your dispenser with a variety of liquid soaps, hand sanitizers, shampoos, or conditioners. Get creative and make your everyday items look pretty and stylish! You can even use a pour spout or dispenser for dish soap or laundry detergent.
Maintenance and Care
Remember to rinse your soap dispenser thoroughly between uses to prevent soap buildup and residue. With proper care, your new soap dispenser should last for years. Enjoy your eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing creation!
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Use them for food storage
Old candle jars can be used for food storage, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure the jars are thoroughly cleaned and free of any wax residue. 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, which can then be wiped clean. A gentle scrub with warm water and vinegar can also help remove stubborn residue. It is also important to ensure that the jars have not previously contained any scented candles with chemicals that could be harmful if they come into contact with food.
Once the jars are clean, they can be used to store various food items. For example, you can use them to prep food like salads and overnight oats for consumption later in the week. If there is any liquid in the jar, such as salad dressing, keep it at the bottom of the jar to prevent the other ingredients from becoming soggy. Old candle jars can also be used to store dry goods such as beans, grains, and other bulk items purchased at the supermarket. Simply bring the jar to the store and fill it with your desired bulk items, then store the jar in your pantry or refrigerator.
Another idea is to use old candle jars as drinkware. Jars with lids are perfect for carrying cold brew or iced tea to work and can be kept in the fridge. Just be sure to clean the jars regularly with a soft cloth dampened with water and vinegar to keep them crystal clear.
Old candle jars can also be used to store herbs and spices. For long-term storage, make sure the jars are airtight to keep your herbs and spices fresh. Personalize your jars with paint, ribbons, or decals to match your kitchen decor.
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Frequently asked questions
Old candle jars can be recycled with other glass products at your local bottle bank or household waste recycling centre. Before recycling, ensure that you have cleaned out the jar and removed any wax residue.
One way to remove wax from a jar is to freeze it, causing the wax to contract and become loose. You can also heat the jar upside down in an oven at a temperature lower than 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Old candle jars can be used for storage or as a gift container. They can be used to store items such as Q-tips, cotton balls, hair ties, pens, paper clips, buttons, and spices. They can also be used as a vase or soap dispenser.
Old candle jars can be used for food storage or consumption once they are thoroughly cleaned and any wax residue is removed. However, ensure that the jar has not previously contained any scented candles with chemicals that could be harmful if in contact with food.
