We’ve all been there—you finish burning a candle, and what’s left is a beautiful glass jar with a bit of wax stuck to the bottom. It feels like such a waste to throw it out, right? Luckily, reusing old candle jars is an easy, eco-friendly way to give them a second life. Whether you’re looking for new storage options, stylish home decor, or fun DIY projects, these jars can serve multiple purposes.
In this post, we’ll go over a step-by-step guide on how to clean out and reuse your old candle jars creatively and sustainably.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you start, you’ll need a few basic supplies:
- Old candle jars
- Hot water
- A spoon or butter knife
- Dish soap
- Rubbing alcohol or vinegar (optional)
- Cotton pads or paper towels
- Labels or stickers (optional, for decoration)
Step 2: Remove Excess Wax
Once your candle has burned down, there’s usually some wax left at the bottom. The easiest way to remove it is by using hot water. Follow these steps:
1. Boil some water and pour it into the jar, filling it about halfway.
2. Let the jar sit for a few minutes—the heat will melt the leftover wax, and it will start floating to the surface.
3. Once the wax cools and hardens at the top, you can easily remove it with a spoon or butter knife.
4. Repeat this process if necessary until all the wax is gone.
**Alternative Method:** If you prefer not to use hot water, you can place the jar in the freezer for a few hours. The cold temperature will cause the wax to shrink and detach from the sides, making it easier to pop out.
Step 3: Clean the Jar
After removing the wax, you’ll want to clean the jar to remove any residue or soot:
1. Wash the jar with warm, soapy water, using a sponge or cloth to scrub off any leftover wax or fragrance oils.
2. For extra cleanliness, you can wipe down the inside with rubbing alcohol or vinegar using a cotton pad. This will ensure the jar is free of any remaining oils or scents.
Step 4: Remove Labels and Wicks
If your candle jar has any labels or stickers, soak the jar in warm soapy water for about 10 minutes. This will help loosen the adhesive, allowing you to peel off the labels easily.
To remove the metal wick base at the bottom of the jar, use the butter knife to gently pry it off. These usually pop off with minimal effort after cleaning.
Step 5: Repurpose Your Candle Jar
Now that your jar is clean and label-free, you can get creative! Here are some fun and practical ways to reuse your candle jars:
1. Storage for Small Items
- Use the jars to store small items like cotton balls, Q-tips, makeup brushes, or hair ties. These jars can add a touch of elegance to your bathroom or vanity.
2. Planters for Succulents
- Candle jars are the perfect size for small plants like succulents or cacti. Simply add some pebbles at the bottom for drainage, followed by soil and your plant. The jars look chic and minimalist when used as planters.
3. Desk Organizers
- Keep your desk tidy by using old candle jars as organizers. They’re perfect for holding pens, pencils, paper clips, or other office supplies.
4. DIY Vases
- Use your candle jars as vases for small flower arrangements. The glass jars, especially if they have unique designs, can make for beautiful table centerpieces or decor items.
5. Create a New Candle
- If you enjoy making your own candles, you can reuse the jars to create new candles. All you need is some wax, wicks, and essential oils to customize your own scent. This is a great way to reduce waste and have personalized candles.
Step 6: Add Personal Touches (Optional)
If you want to take your repurposed candle jars to the next level, you can personalize them:
- Add decorative labels or stickers to the outside of the jar.
- Paint the jar with glass paint or use decorative tape.
- Wrap the jar in twine or ribbon for a rustic look.
Final Thoughts
Reusing old candle jars is a fun and easy way to reduce waste while adding a personal, stylish touch to your home. Whether you’re organizing, planting, or crafting, these jars have endless possibilities. Next time you finish burning a candle, don’t throw away the jar—instead, turn it into something both beautiful and practical.
By repurposing these jars, you’re not only being eco-friendly but also embracing a sustainable, creative lifestyle. Give it a try and see what new uses you can come up with!