Help Us Save the Environment

Return Your Used Candle Containers for Credit

Help us save our shared planet by repurposing your used candle containers.  If you live near Chesapeake Beach, MD, and can bring our used candle jars to us, we will credit you $1 per jar towards your next purchase. If you are unable to bring back your used jars, please follow the steps below to clean and repurpose your jars.  Scroll to the bottom of this page for some examples of repurposed jars. 

Remove Leftover Wax from Containers

There are several different ways to remove the remaining wax from your jar, but we recommend the following two methods because they are less likely to damage the color coating on your amber and white tumblers.  You can use any method, including double broiler, for clear apothecary jars and amber jars with gold lids. 

Hot water method - pour hot water directly into the jar leaving some space at the top. The hot water will melt the wax and it will float. Once the water has cooled, remove and discard the wax. Strain the water to make sure that there are no wax bits left before you pour it down the drain. Wash the jar with soap and warm water. 

Oven method - this method works especially well if you have several jars to clean at the same time.  Heat the oven to 170 F.  Place the jars on a rimmed baking pan lined with aluminum foil.  You can place the jars upside down and let the wax melt into the pan. Or, you can keep them upright and let the wax melt in the jars.  Once the wax has melted, take the pan out and place it on a heat-safe surface. Take the jars with a towel or pot holder (be careful as the jars will be very hot) and pour the melted wax out. Let the jars cool a bit and wash with soap and warm water. 

If the metal wick tab is still stuck to the bottom, slip a butter knife underneath and pop it out. 

WARNINGS

  • DO NOT overheat glass containers as the the glass may shatter
  • DO NOT put any solid or liquid wax down the sink as this will clog your drain
  • DO NOT use a microwave as many wicks have metal tabs at the bottom, which could cause a fire
  • Be careful not to break the glass
  • Let the container cool to room temperature before handling

Repurpose the Jars

Once your jars are clean and dry, there are plenty of ways to reuse them. Here are some DIY ideas:

  • Organize your office supplies 
  • Plant succulents or herbs
  • Turn into holders for makeup brushes, eyeliners and pencils, toothbrushes,  cotton balls, Q-tips, jewelry, or little knickknacks on your vanity counter
  • Use as vases for fresh flowers
  • Use as storage containers for craft supplies

 The possibilities are endless!