Wondering how you can reuse old candle holders and glasses in an original way? After candles have burned out, the holders can still be of value in various ways. In this article you will discover useful advice for cleaning the glass and inspiring suggestions for using it again.
If you're a lover of scented candles, chances are you have a collection of empty candle holder glasses. In addition to the fine scents, these glasses often exude elegance, so we don't just want to throw them away. Reusing old candle holders is therefore an absolute must.
The first step in repurposing a candle holder is to remove the old candle wax from the glass. Below you will find some practical tips that you can apply.
Tip 1: Freeze
Freezing candle wax ensures that it becomes brittle, after which it is easy to remove from the glass. Place the old candle holder in the freezer for a few hours. Once the wax is frozen, you can gently use a knife to pry off any remaining wax residue.
Use a paper or cloth towel with some warm water to wipe off any remaining debris. This method works well for candles made from paraffin wax or beeswax.
Tip 2: Hot water
If you're dealing with stubborn candle wax, hot water is a good option. Fill a bowl or bucket with boiling water and allow the candle glass to float gently in the water for a few minutes. The heat of the boiling water causes the candle wax on the inside of the glass to melt.
Once the wax is soft, remove the glass from the water and pour the wax away. You can then wash the glass to get it completely clean.
Tip 3: Wash traditionally
One of the easiest to implement tips that works well for candles made from lower melting point wax, such as soy wax. First remove as much candle wax as possible with a sharp knife or other handy object. Fill the candle glass with warm water and soap. Let the glass sit for a minute and then scrub the inside.
Important: Do not forget to remove the wick holder! If it is stuck, gently slide a sharp knife underneath and remove the wick that way. If the wick holder is difficult to loosen, hot water may help.
This way you can breathe new life into your old candle holders and reuse them in a creative way. Be inspired by these ideas and give your candle glass a second chance!
Important points to note when cleaning candleholders
Fragile candle holders
It may be that some glass candle holders are more fragile than others. If you are concerned that you have a fragile candle holder, we recommend that you wash away candle wax with warm water and soap. This cleaning process takes a little longer and may need to be repeated. But this reduces the chance that the glass will break.
No candle wax down the drain
Never pour melted candle wax with water down the drain. When the candle wax comes into contact with cold water, it will solidify. This can clog the drain and nobody will be happy about that.
Do not overheat the candle glass
Be careful not to overheat your glasses/candle holders. It is possible that the glass will shatter if it gets too hot. This also applies if the glass freezes, then cracks can occur. Use these cleaning methods only if the glass is strong and thick.
Do not use a microwave
Never use a microwave oven to melt candle wax. The wick holder at the bottom of the candle holder that holds the wick in place is made of metal. When using the microwave, this can break your microwave and, in the worst case, cause a fire!
