Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Turn Candle Jars Into Plant Pots
Old scented candle containers are the perfect size to become your latest leafy addition’s new home. With our current obsession with succulents and pretty much every other plant out there, we almost don’t have enough old candle jars – that really is saying something! Because candle jars don't have drainage I would suggest Horticultural Charcoal. This will enhance nutrients and water retention, meaning you will only need to spray your succulents every now and then. So clean your jar, add some charcoal, then your soil and get growing!
Another great idea to up-cycle is the use them as pencil holders, makeup brush holders or if you start collecting too many of our jars send us an email and we can reuse them for your next purchase and give you a discount for being an eco-hero.
How to clean your old jars
The Double Boiler
For stubborn leftover wax, a double boiler method is a great option. This method works by filling a bowl with boiling water and gently sitting the candle container for a few minutes. The heat from the boiling water will transfer through the sides of the container melting the wax left attached to the inside. Once the wax has softened, carefully remove the jar from the water and pour out the melted wax (not down the drain). The jar can then be washed using warm water and soap to finish.
Hand Washing
First, remove as much of the leftover wax as possible using a spoon. Then, just fill the container with soap and hot water from your tap, and let it sit for a minute, before gently scrubbing the inside clean.
Remove The Wick Holder Once you have removed all the wax, don’t forget to take out the wick holder. If it’s stuck down, just slip a spoon underneath and pop it out. A little boiling water will usually help if it doesn’t want to come out easily.
Note: Try using a hairdryer on hot heat to loosen the wax before using an old chopstick to scrape the wax out. Great as a quick method of cleaning your Jars.
A word of Warning
The glass containers can be fragile, so we recommend hand washing. It’s slower, but you're far less likely to break the jar.
No Drains Never put the wax melted in the water down the drain. It will cool and solidify, and probably end up clogging the pipe.
Don’t Overheat You should be careful not to overheat glass containers. There is a risk that the glass will crack if the jar gets too hot.
Don’t Microwave Never use a microwave to melt the wax inside old candle jars. The wick holder that holds the candle wick in place is made out of metal, which could not only ruin your microwave but start a fire.
