Reader Question: I’ve got a question I couldn’t find an answer to via Where Can I Wednesdays or otherwise. What the hell do I do with candle wax when it’s spent? This has puzzled me for ages, but now I have a pile of spent candles begging me for an answer. What say you??? 

Sincerely, Burned out

What to do with Used Candle Wax

Dear Burned Out,

This is a good news/bad news kind of scenario. The bad news is that there really isn’t a good way to recycle candles but the good news is that there are lots of ways to reuse them.

Where to Donate Old Candles

One thing you can do is donate old candles to a non-profit called St. Vincent de Paul. The organization repurposes old candles into new products like Eco fire starters and bricks of wax for crafting. The best part is that proceeds from the sale of these products go towards funding social services in the area of Eugene, Oregon where the organization is located.

Where to Recycle Candle Jars

If you’re looking to recycle a glass candle jar and don’t feel like turning it into a craft simply clean out all the wax and recycle curbside as usual. Remove wax quickly by first placing the jar in the freezer to harden wax and make it easier to scrape out.

How to Reuse Candles

If you are feeling crafty (unlikely since your name IS Burned Out..), you can melt old candles into molds to make new ones. Most candles are made of non-toxic substances like paraffin, a petroleum by-product or beeswax. Just make sure to remove old bits of wicks or labels before melting.

There are tons of how-tos for making new candles out of scraps like from the all-knowing Wiki How or The spruce.

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Marie is a senior at Villanova University studying communication and sustainability. She lives for hiking, camping, skiing, and any outdoor activity. Marie is a coffee addict, loves reading, and has never met a cat or dog she didn't like. View all posts by Marie Bouffard