What do you do with your used candle jars?
Once your candle reaches its final burn - usually when only ¼ inch of wax remains - it’s time to retire it. But though the flame may be out, its story doesn't have to end. Tins and glass jars can serve a variety of purposes as long as they're properly cleared of their candle contents.
Here’s how to repurpose your candle jar or tin in less than 5 minutes and give it a second life:
1) Melt & pour. First, make sure the candle is not lit. Pour hot water into the jar to loosen the remaining wax (the water doesn't have to be boiling, but hot enough to melt wax). Once softened, you can scoop the wax right out of the vessel with a butter knife, spoon, or similar utensil. While some folks suggest microwaving the vessel, that is NEVER a good idea - many wicks have metal tabs, and not all vessels are microwave-safe (our tins, for example, are...well...tin). Freezing the wax is another method that often works, but we don't find it as reliable.
2) Reclaim the Scent. Once the vessel has cooled, place any leftover fragrant wax in a wax warmer to enjoy the final notes of the scent.
3) Remove the Wick. If the wick doesn’t come out along with the wax, try hot water, a hair dryer, or a heat gun to loosen any adhesive. Most will slide right out, but stubborn ones can be removed with pliers or tweezers. Many candle companies will hot-glue their wicks to the bottom of the vessel, so it might just require a little extra effort to remove.
4) Wipe & Reclaim. Thoroughly wipe the jar with a paper towel, then the vessel is all yours to do what you like. Use it to store trinkets, herbs, dried flowers, matchsticks, or even a new tealight. Some of our customers have even turned them into succulent planters. If you're feeling crafty, you could even try making your own candle in the reclaimed vessel. Be advised, some ambient fragrance could remain, but who doesn't love a nice-smelling jar?
And that's it - a quick and easy way to ensure no candle ever truly needs to be forgotten.
