How to Clean & Refill Candle Jars
I tend to let mostly burned candles collect dust in a cabinet because it just feels too wasteful to throw them away, especially if they are in a beautiful vessel that could be reused or repurposed. I recently tested a simple method for removing wax from old candle jars using boiling water and it worked so well! Once my jars were clean, I added new wicks and used an easy, no-pour, mess-free trick for refilling them with fresh beeswax in the oven. This technique is the perfect zero-waste activity to prepare for the colder months ahead!
How to remove wax from old candle jars using boiling water
First, place your candle on a protected surface. I used a pan lined with tin foil to catch any overflow. Next, pour boiling water into the candle container, leaving some room at the top. The hot water will melt the wax, which will then float to the surface. Allow the water to cool completely (about an hour) and then remove the wax. Use your sink strainer when pouring out the water, as wax will clog your drain. Discard the old wax or save it in a bag to make new candles with. Depending on how much wax is left in your candle, you may need to repeat this process. Clean out any remaining soot or wax residue with hot, soapy water then dry your vessel thoroughly. Then it’s ready to refill or repurpose!
How to make (or refill) candles using an oven
Supplies
Clean, dry candle jar or oven-proof vessel
Beeswax pastilles
Cotton candle wicks
Optional: essential oils of your choice
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 200°F.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper
Place the jars on parchment paper, place wick in center and fill with wax pastilles.
Put the jars in the oven for 45-60 minutes until wax is fully melted, topping off with more wax pastilles if necessary.
Remove from the oven. If adding essential oils, do so now while the wax is still liquid. For an 8 ounce candle, 30-40 drops is the recommended amount.
Allow candles to cool and cure completely (about 24 hours) before lighting
