In a world where environmental protection and recycling are essential, knowing how to reuse raw materials is key to saving wax and reducing waste.
Good news: it’s entirely possible to recycle your leftover wax to create new candles! In this article, we’ll show you how to recover wax remnants from your candles and transform them into new creations to brighten your space. We’ll also explain the materials and tools needed to craft your own recycled candles.
Recycling your wax offers two major benefits:
- Save money by reusing the wax you already have
- Reduce consumption and minimize your environmental impact
Ready to give your wax remnants a second life? Follow our simple steps to easily recycle your wax scraps and create unique new candles. Prefer a video tutorial?
Steps to Recycle Your Wax Remnants into New Candles
You’ll see that recycling your wax scraps is a breeze. Follow these steps carefully for the best results!
Before you start: Separate your molded candles from poured candles to avoid mixing waxes with different purposes. This will help achieve optimal results when crafting your new candles.
- Melt the Wax
Place your old candles in a metal melting container and heat them in a double boiler up to 80°C until the wax is completely melted. - Filter the Wax
Once the wax is fully melted, position a strainer over your beaker or a clean container. Slowly pour the wax through the strainer to remove any impurities. - Add Dye and Fragrance (optional)
If desired, this is the time to add your dye and/or fragrance to the melted wax. Stir well to ensure an even distribution. - Prepare Your Molds or Containers
For molded candles:- Take your P3 wick and insert it into your cylinder mold.
- Thread the wick from the bottom to the top of the mold, then cut it to the desired length.
- Secure the wick at the other end of the mold, centering it, and ensure that the silicone plug seals the mold’s base to prevent wax leakage.
- Select containers of your choice (such as jam jars, yogurt pots, etc.) and ensure they match the diameter of the wicks you’re using.
- Fix the wicks at the center of each container.
- Pour the Wax
Fill your molds or containers with the melted wax. For molded candles, use the strainer to filter the wax once more if necessary. - Let the Candle Harden
After filling the molds or containers, allow the candle to harden for at least 3 hours. If a crater forms around the wick, top it up with additional liquid wax of the same color. - Unmold and Finish
For molded candles:- Once the candle has fully cooled, remove the silicone plug from the mold’s base.
- Carefully unmold the candle. If it’s resistant, place the mold in the refrigerator briefly to ease the release.
- Trim excess wick at the base, leaving about 8 mm of wick protruding from the top.
- Ensure the candle has fully cooled and the wax is solidified.
- Trim the wick, leaving about 8 mm exposed.
Important Recommendations
Protect your workspace by covering it, and wear an apron to prevent stains. Ensure your molds or containers are clean and dry before pouring the wax. Only prepare the amount of color you need and check the wax temperature with a thermometer.
Fire safety: Never melt wax directly in a saucepan! Always use a double boiler to avoid any fire hazard.
For cleaning your equipment:
- Rinse the strainer with boiling water to remove wax residue.
- Place the mold in an oven at 75°C to melt leftover wax, then wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
Conclusion
Now you know how to reuse your wax remnants to create new candles. This not only helps you save money but also allows you to reduce your environmental footprint by limiting waste.
Did you know that you can also use melted wax to polish wooden furniture or even make hand creams with coconut or olive oil? The process, however, is different!
Now that you know the tips for recycling your wax, discover how to remove wax stains if they appear on surfaces.
