How To Clean Out Scented Candle Jars

Do you feel guilty about tossing out your Tuscany® glass jars once your favorite scented candles have burned down? Fear not! There are so many creative ways to give new life to candle jars - You can transform them into new candles, use them for storage, or even turn them into a piece of home decor. But before you dive into these fun projects, the first step is getting that leftover wax out of the jar.

You'll know it's time to bid farewell to your candle when you see about a half-inch of wax left at the bottom of the jar. Allowing a candle to burn beyond this point can lead to the jar cracking and potentially ruining its resting surface. 

The good news is that it's super easy to get the residual wax out of your scented candle jar using one of the methods listed below. Once you've cleared out the wax and given the jar a quick cleanup, it'll be ready to be converted into a new life in your home!

Removing Wax With Hot Water

NOTE: These methods work best with wide, cylindrical scented candle jars like the Tuscany® 14oz Triple-Wick collection.

Option 1: Begin by boiling enough water to fill the candle jar, leaving an inch of space at the top. Carefully pour the hot water into the jar. The heat will cause the candle wax to melt and rise to the top. Once the water has completely cooled, the wax will solidify, making it easy to remove. Ensure your sink drain is stopped, then carefully strain the water and any candle remnants. You may choose to save the wax for future endeavors. It's crucial to remove all wax remnants from the sink to prevent clogging before you release the drain stopper.

Option 2: If you prefer a gentler approach, consider soaking the candle jar in warm water. Close your sink drain, fill it with warm water, and submerge the jar, lid removed, for about 30 minutes. The warmth will soften the wax, allowing you to easily dislodge it from the jar. This method is particularly effective but may result in the removal of the jar's label. Select the technique that best suits your needs and contribute to a more sustainable and elegant workspace.

Using Your Freezer to Remove Wax

For a straightforward and effective approach to candle wax removal, consider the freezing method. This technique relies on the natural contraction of wax in cold temperatures. Simply place your used candle jar in the freezer and leave it overnight. The next day, remove the jar and gently turn it upside down. The wax should effortlessly pop out due to its reduced size. In the rare instance that the wax remains stubborn, gently apply pressure with a spoon or butter knife at one corner of the wax to nudge and remove it. This method is particularly useful for preserving the integrity of your candle jars for future use.

How to Clean Out a Candle Jar in the Oven

Here's a straightforward guide to efficiently removing candle wax using your oven - This method allows you to remove wax from multiple candles at once if needed, and is also a great option for oddly-shaped containers, or for jars with narrow necks. 

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Farenheit

Step 2: Prepare Your Supplies

Start by lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange your spent candles upside-down on the foil, ensuring they're spaced well apart.

Step 3: Heat the Wax

Preheat your oven and carefully place the baking sheet with the candles inside. Monitor the candles closely; within approximately 15 minutes, the wax should melt and pool onto the foil. Once you see this, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and place it on a heat-resistant surface. Use an oven mitt to safely handle and remove the jars from the baking sheet.

Step 4: Clean the Candle Jar

Allow the jars to cool down to room temperature before cleaning. Once they're cool, wash each jar with soap and warm water to remove any residual wax. As for the wax on the aluminum foil, once it's dried, you can peel it off for future creative projects or dispose of it along with the foil. This method is not only efficient but also provides you with the option to repurpose the wax.

Please Note: If your jar features embellishments such as glitter, sequins, or stickers that cannot be easily removed, it would be best to consider alternative cleaning techniques.

How to Clean Candle Jars:

Once you've successfully removed the wax, it's likely you'll need to address any residual wax or soot clinging to the inside of the glass. For a thorough clean, use warm water, soap, and a sponge to gently scrub the jar's interior. Afterward, carefully dry the jar with a dish towel or paper towel. If you encounter more persistent residue, an adhesive remover like Goo Gone can be particularly effective. Should the jar's opening be too narrow for easy access, a bottle brush can be an invaluable tool to ensure every inch is spotless and ready for reuse.