Candle making is not only an enjoyable activity but also a creative outlet for many craft enthusiasts. While various containers can be reused multiple times, there comes a time when they need to be cleaned, and trapped wax can be quite a hassle. But don't worry—there are several easy ways to get rid of the wax!
Heat Method for Cleaning
Step 1. Extinguish the candle.
Step 2. Shorten the candle with a knife when the wax has burned down to about 1/4 or 1/3 of its total thickness.
Use a knife to remove part of the candle when the wax reaches 1/4 or 1/3 thickness. Press the wax a few times until you have one or two pieces that can be melted down for new candles—don't forget to save them.
Step 3. Wipe the candle holder with a paper towel.
Use a paper towel to wipe the candle holder and remove any soot or oily residues from non-paraffin candles. This will also help eliminate wax remnants.
Step 4. Fold a kitchen towel into quarters and place it at the bottom of a pot that can fit the jar.
Place the folded towel at the bottom of the pot where the jar will go. Then, set the jar on top of this towel.
Step 5. Fill the jar with room temperature water to the brim.
Pour room temperature water into the jar until it slightly overflows. Add water to the pot until it reaches the sides of the jar.
Step 6. Turn on the stove under the pot to medium heat.
Activate the heat under the pot, but not higher than medium. Watch the jar carefully, as different waxes melt at different temperatures. Common candles found in Spanish-speaking stores or memorials can melt even at low temperatures.
Step 7. Check the water temperature using a thermometer.
Use a thermometer to monitor the water temperature. Stop heating when the temperature reaches between 140°F - 160°F. Different types of wax melt at various temperatures, and your goal is to make the wax as liquid as possible.
Step 8. Carefully pour the hot water from the jar into the pot using a ladle.
Step 9. Turn off the stove and let the water cool to room temperature.
Step 10. Allow the remaining wax to solidify on the water's surface.
Step 11. Strain the water through a sieve and dispose of the wax remnants in the trash.
Step 12. Clean the inside of the jar with a bottle brush and warm soapy water.
Rinse the jar inside with a bottle brush using hot soapy water. You won't need any abrasive cleaners—all remnants will come off easily.
Freezing Method for Cleaning
Step 1. Place the jar or candle holder in the freezer overnight.
Step 2. Remove the jar or candle holder from the freezer in the morning.
Step 3. Use a knife to extract the wax in one piece.
Use a knife to pull the wax out in one piece. It will come off easily, and you can simply discard it or reuse it.
Step 4. Wash the jar or candle holder in the dishwasher for a thorough clean.
Clean the jar or candle holder in the dishwasher. They will come out sparkling and completely free of wax.
