Do you have a collection of used candle jars lying around your house? Don't throw them away just yet! With a little bit of effort, you can clean out those jars and give them a new life. Not only will you be reducing waste, but you'll also have some beautiful containers to use for storage or decoration. Here are some simple steps to clean out your used candle jars and some creative ideas on how to reuse them.
Step 1: Freeze and Remove the Wax
The first step in cleaning out a used candle jar is to freeze it. Fill the candle jar with boiling water then carefully place the jar in the freezer. The boiling water should cause the wax to rise to the surface and once frozen you should be able to simply pop the wax out with your fingers. You may need to repeat this process more than once if there is a lot of wax leftover.
Step 2: Remove the Wick and Labels
After removing the wax, it's time to get rid of the wick and any labels that may be stuck to the jar. Use a pair of tweezers or pliers to pull out the metal base of the wick. If there are any labels or adhesive residue, soak the jar in warm soapy water for a few minutes and then scrub it off with a sponge or a scrubbing brush.
Step 3: Clean and Dry the Jar
Now that the jar is free from wax and labels, it's time to give it a thorough cleaning. Rinse the jar with warm water to remove any soap residue. Once the jar is clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel.
Step 4: Reuse and Repurpose
Now that your candle jar is clean and ready to go, it's time to get creative with how you can reuse it. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
1. Storage: Use the jars to store small items like cotton balls, cotton buds, or office supplies such as pens or paper clips. They make great organisers for your bathroom, kitchen, or workspace.
2. Planters: Fill the jars with soil and plant small succulents or herbs. They will add a touch of greenery to your home and make adorable mini planters.
3. Candle Holders: If you still love candles, pop a tealight in and enjoy your new beautiful container.
4. Decorative Vases: Fill the jars with water and fresh flowers to create charming floral arrangements. They can be used as centerpieces for special occasions or as everyday decor.
5. DIY Gifts: Fill the jars with homemade bath salts and give them as thoughtful gifts to your friends and family.
With these simple steps and creative ideas, you can repurpose your used candle jars into something useful and beautiful. So, the next time you finish burning a candle, don't throw away the jar. Give it a second life and enjoy the satisfaction of reducing waste while adding a touch of creativity to your home.
Note: Alternatively, you can return any used candle jars to us at any of our markets (providing they’re one of ours 😉) and in return you’ll receive a discount code for you to use off your next order with us! We often reuse old candle jars when we’re testing new fragrances so it’s a win-win all round!