How to Clean Out Candle Jars for Recycling or Reuse

How to Clean Out Candle Jars for Recycling or Reuse

(The Smell of Fear Sustainability Guide)

At The Smell of Fear, I’m committed to keeping things earth-friendly and sustainable. The only thing scary about my candles is the inspiration, not the environmental impact.

While I’m actively working on a jar return program, here are several safe, effective ways to remove leftover wax from candle jars so they can be recycled or repurposed instead of tossed.

If you’ve ever wondered how to clean candle jars properly, start here.

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Method 1: Freeze the Candle Jar (Easy & Low-Mess)

Freezing is one of the simplest ways to remove candle wax from glass jars.

How it works:
Cold temperatures cause wax to harden and shrink, making it easier to release from the jar.

Steps:

1. Break up any large wax chunks left in the jar.

2. Place the candle jar in the freezer for several hours (or overnight).

3. Once frozen, the wax should pop out easily.

4. Scrape off any residue.

5. Wash the jar with warm soapy water.

Best for: Most coconut, soy, and blended wax candles.

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Method 2: Hot Water Method (Great for Stubborn Wax)

This method uses heat to melt the wax so it can be removed cleanly.

Steps:

1. Remove as much solid wax as possible.

2. Carefully pour hot or boiling water into the jar, leaving space at the top.

3. Let the wax melt and float to the surface.

4. Allow the water to cool completely.

5. Remove the hardened wax layer.

6. Strain the water to catch wax bits. Never pour wax down the drain!

7. Clean the jar with soap and water.

Best for: Thick wax layers or jars with textured interiors.

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Method 3: Oven Method (Best for Cleaning Multiple Jars at Once)

If you’re cleaning several candle jars, this is the most efficient option.

Steps:

1. Scrape out as much wax as possible.

2. Preheat your oven to 180°F (low heat).

3. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

4. Place jars upside down on the sheet.

5. Heat for about 15 minutes until the wax melts.

6. Remove carefully and wipe the inside with a paper towel.

7. Let jars cool, then wash with soap and water.

Best for: Batch cleaning candle jars.

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Method 4: Double Boiler Method (Controlled & Gentle)

This method allows you to soften wax without exposing the jar directly to extreme heat.

Steps:

1. Remove excess wax.

2. Place the candle jar inside a large pot or metal bowl.

3. Pour boiling water around the jar but do not let water enter it.

4. Let the wax soften.

5. Carefully remove the wax.

6. Wash with soap and water.

Best for: Delicate jars or when you want maximum control.

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Important Safety Notes

⚠️ Use caution with all methods.
Glass can break with sudden temperature changes.

• Avoid moving jars directly from freezer to hot water (or vice versa)

• Use oven mitts, towels, or heat-safe gloves

• These are recommendations, not full safety guidelines

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Ready to Reuse or Recycle

Once cleaned, your candle jars are ready for a second life. Customers reuse The Smell of Fear jars as:

• Planters or propagation jars

• Desk or craft storage

• Bathroom organizers

• Gift containers

• Seasonal décor

I love seeing how they’re reused so please leave a comment and tell me how you’ve repurposed yours!