How To Clean Your Old Candle Jars

Use the freezer

Probably one of the most popular techniques but does require you to do some prep work as you need to do it the night before. Stick the jar (without the lid) into the freezer and leave it overnight. Take it out the next morning and use a butter knife or spoon to scrape down the sides to loosen it from the jar. Turn the jar upside down and on the counter give it a light tap and the wax should fall out. If there’s any leftover bits of wax, use the spoon/butter knife to scrape off the last bits. Once all the wax and wicks are out use hot soapy water to remove any residue.

Use hot water

If you’re short on time, or impatient (like me) then the hot water method is another popular one. It’s simple – boil some water in the kettle then carefully pour it into the jar. After a few minutes, the wax should float to the top on its own or you can gently probe it with a spoon or butter knife to help loosen it. Rinse with hot soapy water.

HOT TIP: Once the wax is removed, double wash your jars and place either baking soda or vinegar in the jar to remove any odors. Do this especially if you’re planning on using it for any food items. The essential oil in candles can sometimes stay in the jars and you’ll end up with sugar that smells and tastes like your candle.

Now you’ve removed the excess wax from your jar and it’s sparkly clean, here are some ways to repurpose your candle jars.