Used all your beloved candles and now don’t know what to do with the empty jars? They probably look too pretty to throw away, so how do we save them from ending up in the garbage?
Maybe recycling these candles can be a sustainable option. Keep reading to figure it out!
So, Can You Recycle Candle Jars?
Glass is one of the few materials that can be recycled repeatedly without losing any quality. So, the answer is yes!
If anything, recycling allows you to enjoy the aroma of scented candles while contributing to local recycling efforts.
However, you need to clean out any leftover wax before you get ready with the recycling material.
The First Step: Get The Wax Out
Removing any remaining wax is essential before giving your candle containers an additional life.
This process is pretty straightforward and can be done at home with a few simple steps:
Using the Stove
One reliable method is to use your kitchen stove. Start by filling a bowl with water and bringing it to a boil. Then, steadily place the candle jar in the bowl.
The heat will cause the candle wax to melt and float to the top in liquid form. Once the wax melts, you can remove the jar from the water.
Let the jar cool a bit, and then pour the liquid wax into a disposable container or directly toss it into the trash.
| Note: Remember, never pour the wax used down the sink. When it cools, it can harden and block the pipes, leading to costly plumbing problems. |
Freeze The Leftover Bits
- Slowly pour boiling water into the candle.
Then, put the candle in the freezer for a few hours until it’s frozen.
After freezing, you can use a butter knife to scrape off the frozen wax.
Give the jar another wash, and it’ll appear completely clean.
Recycle & Reuse
Now that you know how to clean the jar by removing the wax, consider how to use it for sustainability. Let’s see some innovative recycling ideas:
Organizing Your Desk
Whether you decorate or leave them as-is, a few glass jars can quickly change a chaotic workplace into a calm one. Use them to wrangle loose paperclips, pens, and other office items.
They’re also helpful for a workbench, junk drawer, or any other area cluttered with small objects.
Storing Your Spices
Small containers (including used candle jars) can be repurposed to hold spices.
Purchasing spices in bulk and storing them in such containers can significantly free up cabinet space.
Moreover, with the latest cut down on plastic, old candle glass jars are much more eco-friendly for household purposes.
Collecting Foreign Coins
You can use one candle jar to collect old or foreign coins, which can be used as souvenirs. It sounds old-fashioned, but it is still relevant.
Designing A Lava Lamp
You don’t always have to buy those expensive lava lamps you see at the mall, so why not make one yourself? Just follow these simple instructions:
Use vegetable oil to fill half of the jar.
Add water until the jar is about three-quarters full.
Add 5-10 drops of food coloring.
Break an antacid tablet into several pieces, drop them in the jar one at a time, and watch the lava lamp activate!
Making New Candles
Instead of tossing those empty glass candle jars into the blue bin, consider reusing and recycling them. Follow the process listed below:
Start by boiling water in the candle jar and placing it in a bowl. With time, the wax will melt and dislodge from the sides.
Carefully pour the hot wax into a larger container.
Once the excess wax is removed, clean the jar and alternatively prepare another candle.
Use a new wick, and choose your favorite scent or fragrance.
| If you’re interested, you can create your vegan candles, which are cost-effective and simple. All that’s required are a wick, natural soy wax, and a soothing, non-toxic mixture of essential oils. After that, you’re all set to begin. |