Jingying Glassware Tell You - How To Clean Leftover Wax From Candle Jars

The Freezer Method

Because candle wax becomes brittle when it is frozen, it can easily be removed from its container. To start, place the old candle container into your freezer for a couple of hours. Once it has frozen, use a knife to gently pry out the remaining wax. Put some warm water on a paper towel and wipe out any leftover debris. This is a good method for candles made using Parrafin wax or Beeswax.

The Double Boiler / Bain Marie Method

For stubborn leftover wax, the double boiler method will be a great option. This method works by filling a bowl with boiling water, and gently sitting the candle container it it for a few minutes. The heat from the boiling water will transfer through the sides of the container melting the wax left attached to the inside.

Once the wax has softened, carefully remove the jar from the water and pour out the melted wax. The jar can then be washed using warm water and soap to finish.

The Wash & Go Method

This is the simplest method and works well for candles made of wax with a low melting point like Soy Wax. First remove as much of the leftover wax as possible using a sharp knife. Then, just fill the container with soap and hot water from your tap, let it sit for a minute, before scrubbing the inside clean. Voila! 

Things To Bear In Mind

Remove The Wick Holder

Once you have removed all the wax, don’t forget to take out the wick holder. If its stuck down, just slip a sharp knife underneath and pop it out. A little boiling water will usually help if it doesn’t want to come out easily.

Save Thin Containers

To get wax out of long thin containers, try using a hairdryer on a hot heat to loosen the wax before using an old chop stick to scrap the wax out.

Keep The Old Wax

It’s often worth setting the old wax aside as there are a number of projects you can do with. We’ll be adding a few ideas to the blog in the near future so make sure your signed up to our newsletter so you don’t miss anything!

A Word Of Warning

Fragile?

If you’re worried that the glass container is fragile, we’d recommend using the Wash & Go Method – it’s slower, but your less likely to break the container.

No Drains

Never put the wax melted in water down the drain. It will cool and solidify, and probably end up clogging the pipe.

Don’t Overheat

You should be careful not to overheat glass containers. There is a risk that the glass will explode if the jar gets too hot. In fact, both freezing the wax and pouring boiling water into the jar run a great risk of shattering the jar so only use those methods if you are sure the container can handle it.

Don’t Microwave

Never ever use a microwave to melt wax inside old candle jars. The wick holder that holds the candle wick in place is made out of metal, which could not only ruin your microwave, but start a fire.