Repurposing used candles offers a pathway to sustainable living, transforming discarded items into valuable resources. This practice contributes to environmental conservation by lessening demand for new materials and their production impacts. Reusing candles also leads to financial savings, maximizing product utility and fostering personal satisfaction through creative projects. Many homes accumulate leftover candle wax and empty containers, presenting opportunities to engage in this beneficial cycle.
Preparing Your Used Candles
Effectively preparing used candles for reuse involves carefully removing residual wax and thoroughly cleaning the containers. A common and straightforward method for wax removal is placing the candle jar in a freezer overnight, which causes the wax to contract and become brittle, allowing it to easily detach from the container walls. Alternatively, a hot water bath can melt the wax; simply pour boiling water into the container, leaving an inch of space at the top, and as the wax melts, it will float to the surface where it can be collected once cooled. For a gentler approach, especially with softer waxes like soy or coconut, a double boiler method is suitable, where the candle jar is placed in a smaller bowl set over simmering water, allowing the wax to soften and be scooped out. Regardless of the method, it is important to avoid pouring molten wax down drains, as it can solidify and cause clogs.
After wax removal, containers often retain residue, wick clips, or soot, necessitating thorough cleaning. Warm water and dish soap are effective for scrubbing the interior to eliminate any remaining wax film or discoloration. For persistent buildup, an adhesive remover can be used, and a bottle brush may assist in cleaning jars with narrow openings.
Once cleaned and dried, collected wax pieces should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. An airtight container is ideal to preserve their scent and quality for future projects.
Creative Uses for Candle Containers
Cleaned candle containers, whether glass jars or metal tins, present numerous possibilities for repurposing around the home. Their diverse shapes and sizes make them suitable as practical storage solutions for small items. In bathrooms, they can organize cotton swabs, cotton pads, or hair ties, while on desks, they can neatly hold pens, paper clips, or other office supplies. Kitchens can benefit from these containers for storing spices, loose tea bags, or even small snacks like M&Ms.
Beyond storage, these vessels can become decorative elements, adding charm to any space. They function well as small planters for succulents, cacti, or herbs, bringing greenery indoors. Cleaned jars can also serve as decorative vases for fresh or artificial flowers, or as holders for tea lights, creating ambient lighting. For DIY projects, these containers are ideal for organizing craft supplies, packaging small gifts, or housing homemade beauty products like sugar scrubs.
Transforming Leftover Candle Wax
Leftover candle wax, once extracted and cleaned, offers a versatile material for various new applications. A popular use is crafting new candles by melting down different wax pieces, either sorted by scent or mixed to create unique fragrance blends. This process involves melting the wax, often using a double boiler, inserting a new wick into a prepared container or mold, and then carefully pouring the melted wax. Scent and color mixing can personalize these new creations, with essential oils or dyes added to the melted wax.
Collected wax can also be used to create wax melts or tarts for warmers. This involves melting the wax and pouring it into small molds, which, once hardened, release fragrance without an open flame. Wax can also be combined with flammable materials like dryer lint, cotton balls, or paper towel to create effective fire starters for fireplaces or campfires. These fire starters involve placing the flammable material in a mold, pouring melted wax over it, and allowing it to set, providing a prolonged ignition source.
Beyond these common uses, candle wax serves as a simple yet effective lubricant. Rubbing a piece of wax onto sticky wooden drawers or squeaky hinges can significantly reduce friction and improve their operation. Applying wax along the teeth of a stubborn zipper can help it glide more smoothly, restoring functionality. Wax can also be used to strengthen and prevent tangling of sewing thread, making it easier to work with.