Cleaning an empty candle jar isn't just about maintenance; it's also a great opportunity to give your containers a second life. Decorative vase, plant pot, practical storage, or simply a base for a new wax refill… the possibilities are endless.
At Aglaé Bougie , we believe that nothing is wasted, everything is transformed. Here are our tips for easily cleaning your containers and reusing them effortlessly.
Why clean a candle jar?
Give your containers a second life
Once the candle wax has burned down, the empty jar can become a beautiful object for your home : a plant pot, a makeup brush holder, or even a spice jar in the kitchen . Cleaning and recycling these containers extends their lifespan and prevents them from being thrown away.
At Aglaé Bougie, we opted for candle wax refills , because what's better than a new candle once ours is finished?
Understanding wax and perfume residue
A thin layer of solidified wax or some perfume residue often remains at the bottom of the jar . These deposits can be easily removed using various techniques such as hot soapy water , a double boiler , or even the freezer .
Prepare the pot for reuse
Once thoroughly cleaned , your empty candle jar is ready to receive a refill of candle wax or can be transformed into a pretty home decor accessory.
Effective methods for removing wax from a pot
1. The hot water method
The simplest and most practical solution is to pour boiling water directly into the candle jar . After a few minutes , the melted wax will loosen and rise to the surface, forming a small disc that can be easily removed . Then, simply wash the jar with dish soap and a soft sponge to remove any remaining residue.
2. The freezer
Another effective method is to place the jar in the freezer for a few hours. The cold causes the solidified wax to shrink, and it then detaches in one piece from the bottom of the jar . This is a quick and effortless technique, especially for glass jars .
3. The double boiler or hot soapy water
For thick or sturdy jars , you can use the double boiler method. Simply place the container in a saucepan of hot water and gently melt the remaining soy wax or vegetable wax . Once liquefied, the wax can be absorbed with a paper towel , then the jar rinsed with hot, soapy water .
Prepare the pot once it is clean
Dry and check the container
After removing all the melted wax , thoroughly dry the jar with a damp cloth . Check that it shows no signs of thermal shock or cracks so that it can be safely reused.
Remove any traces of highlights
A small pellet of glue or metal often remains at the bottom of the jar . To remove it, use a butter knife or gently scrape with a soft sponge soaked in white vinegar .
Restore the shine
Finally, rinse the cleaned container under warm , mild soapy water to make it completely clean. Your candle jar is now ready to receive a wax refill or be reused as a pretty decorative object .
To learn more, discover our practical tips for maintaining a candle and extending the life of your containers.
Practical tips and mistakes to avoid
Best practices for extending the lifespan of a pot
To keep your candle jars in good condition, avoid thermal shock . Do not pour boiling water directly into a cold jar , and do not put a hot glass jar in the freezer . Ideally, let the cleaned jar rest overnight before reusing it.
Common mistakes
Certain techniques can damage your jars: scraping with a sharp knife , using harsh products , or letting the candle burn completely . These mistakes reduce the lifespan of the container and compromise its quality .
Cleaning according to the material
Not all candle jars are cleaned the same way. Glass jars withstand hot soapy water well, while metal or ceramic jars can be cleaned with baking soda and a damp cloth . Each material requires a specific technique to maintain its shine.
At Aglaé, we innovate with unique containers
At Aglaé, we love pushing the boundaries of creativity. We explore forgotten materials to transform each candle into a true work of art .
Our innovative containers are designed to combine aesthetics, durability and creative recycling :
- pots shaped from crushed mussel shells , with a raw, mineral texture,
- Models made from recycled bottles , for bright and original containers.
- creations made from oyster shells , subtly pearly,
- Containers made from recycled foundry sand , with a unique and contemporary look,
- Brick pots , sturdy and warm, perfect for a rustic decoration .
- Recycled porcelain models, made from workshop scraps transformed into delicate and refined containers.
These innovative approaches allow each candle to become a unique object , full of meaning, which is part of a logic of upcycling and responsible creativity .
FAQ – Cleaning and reusing candle jars
How do I remove the wax from an empty candle jar?
You can use hot water or place the jar in the freezer to loosen the solidified wax .
Can you put a candle jar in the dishwasher?
Yes, once thoroughly cleaned with hot soapy water and rid of any remaining wax , the container can go in the dishwasher .
How to reuse an old candle jar?
A cleaned pot can become a plant pot , a cotton storage container, or hold a wax refill ready to diffuse a new fragrant scent .
How to remove black or perfume stains?
A mixture of white vinegar and baking soda applied with a soft sponge helps to eliminate odors and black marks on the edge of the pot .
Should the jar be left to rest before using it again?
Yes, it is advisable to leave the cleaned pot overnight so that it is completely dry and ready for reuse .
