Old glass candle jars can easily be cleaned out and repurposed for other household uses.
Remove wax and leftover wicks with one of two easy methods:
How to clean candle jars
The freezer method. This is one of the easiest ways to get every last bit of wax out of a glass jar. Stick the candle in the freezer for at least an hour, then very carefully use a butter knife or spoon to pop up the remaining layer of wax. If it's not coming out, gently break up the candle into pieces and let the pieces fall out. Once you've gotten the majority of the wax out, remove the wick and its holder by lightly tugging it with your fingers. If it's being stubborn, a pair of pliers will do the trick. Once everything is out, use hot soapy water to remove any residue.
The hot water method. If there's no room in your freezer, try the hot water trick. Boil a cup of water, then very carefully pour it into the candle jar. After 2-5 minutes, the wax should either pop up on its own or you can gently jab with a spoon or butter knife to help it loosen. Rinse with soap and hot water.
Removing the label. If the jar has a label, removal is fairly quick and simple. Use mineral oil and hot soapy water to help lift the adhesive and scrape it off or place it under a warm hair dryer for 30 seconds to a minute, then peel it off.
“Keep calm and light candles.”
Reusing your candle jars
1. Repot your small plants
Finding the right planter can prove difficult, but you've already given your candles a check of approval, so why not reuse those jars as plant pots? They'll look sleek and if you have more than one of the same candle, they'll match perfectly, too.
2. Organize office supplies
Simply use your old candle jars to store pens, paper clips, staples, and all the other items that make your workspace a productive one.
3. Give it a second life as a catch-all
Set an empty glass on top of your vanity to provide a space for jewelry, hair accessories, or lipsticks. It'll keep everything neat and tidy.
5. Make a mini herb garden
No need to struggle to search for the perfect herb garden containers. Simply add some soil and seeds and watch your plants grow.