Candle jars are a trendy and versatile craft material yet have a high waste factor. Even if they are reused, they can end up in a landfill in a short amount of time. This proves challenging for people like us, who love candles yet want to do our part in not polluting the earth any further. We all know that candles make our homes smell amazing and feel so darn cosy, but the question lies in what we can do with the candle jars once the wax is gone.
If you are currently facing this dilemma, do not fret, as we are here to help. In actuality, there is still plenty of life left in your candles, even after you have burned them. All you have to do is clean and reuse the candles to extend their shelf life. By doing these steps listed below, you can prevent your beloved candles from being discarded and headed to a landfill.
Ways to Clean Candle Jars
If you have ever made your own candles, you know that there can be quite a bit of wax left over in the jars once the candles have burned down. If you are not careful, this wax can build up and make it difficult to clean the jars. However, there are a few simple methods you can use to clean leftover wax from candle jars quickly and easily.
1. Cleaning method
To clean the candle jars, you will need just three supplies – metal spoon and paper towel, alongside hot water. First, put hot water into the used candle jar. After few minutes, throw out the hot water, use the metal spoon to pick remove the remaining wick base. Use the paper towel to clean inside the candle jar. Repeat this process if necessary.
2. Bain-marie method
One of the easiest ways to clean wax from candle jars is to use the bain-marie method. Simply fill a pot or bowl with water and set it on the stove over low heat. Place your candle jar in the water and let the wax melt. Once the wax has melted, you can simply wipe it away with a paper towel.
3. Freezer method
Another straightforward way to clean wax from candle jars is to put them in the freezer for a few hours. Once the wax has frozen, you can pop it out of the jar and throw it away. This method is especially effective if the wax is old and difficult to remove.
Ways to Recycle Candle Jars
We hate to see anything go to waste, so we have rounded up some of our favourite ways to reuse and recycle our candle jars.
1. Make a vase
A simple glass candle jar makes a beautiful vase for fresh flowers or even faux flowers. Just remove the wick and any remaining wax, give it a good wash, and you are good to go.
2. Use it as an organiser
Candle jars are great for storing all sorts of things like pens and pencils, makeup brushes, hair elastics, bobby pins or even loose change. If the jars are aesthetically pleasing, they make for wonderful décor pieces on your desk or shelf.
3. Repurpose it as a planter
Got a green thumb? Turn your candle jar into a cute planter for herbs or succulents. Just make sure to punch a few drainage holes in the bottom first.
4. Bring the empty candle jar back to Candlescape and refill it with Soy wax and fragrance oil of your choice
The great thing is that you do not have to buy a glass when you decide to try and make your customised scented candle because you already have one!
Conclusion
Learning and implementing these eco-friendly tips allow you to not only reduce your wastage and help the environment but also be able to save money in the long run. Think about how much money you can save when you do not have to purchase these knick-knacks every once in a while, as you can craft them from recycled candle jars!
Here at Candlescape, we have also come up with initiatives to encourage our consumers to be more waste-conscious. For one of our ongoing promotions, you can bring an empty candle jar to our store in Chinatown, and we will fill it with sustainable soy wax at 50% off. You can look forward to choosing from a wide range of scents, all carefully crafted from fragrance containing zero toxins and environmentally harmful chemicals.
Aside from offering eco-friendly custom-made scented candles in Singapore, Candlescape is also a place where families and friends can bond through a mutual love for candles. This is made possible with our make-your-own candle workshops that are suitable for all ages.
To find out more about our promotion or candle-making classes in Singapore, you can reach out to us at +65 8168 2577 or email Annie@AnayaSoulRetreat.com.