Here's the blog article:Repurpose Candle Jars Into Useful Storage: Breathe New Life into Your Empty Scents!
You know that feeling. The melancholic glow of your favorite candle, slowly fading as the wax pool dwindles. The comforting scent that's filled your evenings is now just a memory… or is it?
Before you toss that beautiful glass jar into the recycling bin, hold on! Those empty candle containers are just begging to be repurposed. They're far too pretty (and often, high-quality) to simply discard. With a little elbow grease and some creativity, you can transform them into incredibly useful storage solutions around your home.
We're not talking about some complicated DIY project requiring specialized tools and hours of effort. This is about simple, practical ways to upcycle those jars into something you'll actuallyuseandlove. From organizing your bathroom to tidying up your desk, the possibilities are surprisingly endless.
Ready to breathe new life into your empty scents? Let's get started!
The First Step: Cleaning Out the Wax
Okay, before we can get to the fun part, we need to tackle the wax residue. This is usually the biggest hurdle, but trust me, it's easier than you think. Here are a few of my go-to methods:
The Hot Water Method
This is my personal favorite because it's so simple and requires minimal effort.
1.Boil Water: Bring a kettle or pot of water to a boil.
2.Pour Carefully: Slowly pour the hot (but notboiling, to avoid cracking the glass) water into the candle jar, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
3.Wait: Let the hot water sit until the wax melts and floats to the top. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the amount of wax.
4.Remove the Wax: Once the wax has hardened on the surface, you can usually pop it out in one piece. If it's stubborn, try gently loosening it with a butter knife.
5.Wash and Dry: Wash the jar with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue. Dry thoroughly before using.
Pro Tip: Never pour melted wax down the drain! It can solidify and cause serious plumbing problems. Always dispose of it in the trash.
The Freezer Method
Another easy option, especially if you live in a warm climate where the wax is already soft.
1.Place in Freezer: Put the candle jar in the freezer for a few hours (or overnight).
2.Remove and Chip Away: The wax should shrink and become brittle. You should be able to easily chip it out with a butter knife or spoon.
3.Wash and Dry: Again, wash the jar with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly.
A word of caution: Be gentle when chipping away the wax, especially with thinner glass jars. You don't want to accidentally break them!
The Oven Method (Use With Caution!)
This method works, but it requires careful monitoring and isn't my first choice.
1.Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to the lowest possible temperature (usually around 170-200°F).
2.Prepare the Jar: Place the candle jar upside down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3.Bake Briefly: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the wax has melted and dripped onto the parchment paper.
4.Cool Down: Turn off the oven and let the jar cool down completely before removing it.
5.Wash and Dry: Wash the jar with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly.
Important Safety Notes: Never leave the oven unattended while using this method. Also, be extremely careful when handling the hot jar to avoid burns. Ensure adequate ventilation in the kitchen. It's also worth testing the oven with a less favored jar as cheaper glasses can crack easily.
Once the wax is gone, you might have some sticky residue left behind. Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol usually does the trick for removing that.
Creative Storage Ideas: Where to Use Your Repurposed Jars
Now for the fun part! Here are some of my favorite ways to use repurposed candle jars for storage:
Bathroom Bliss
Cotton Swab & Cotton Pad Holders: This is a classic! The jars are the perfect size for storing cotton swabs, cotton balls, cotton pads, and other small toiletries. Makeup Brush Organizer: Keep your makeup brushes organized and easily accessible. You can even add some decorative pebbles or beads to the bottom of the jar to keep the brushes upright. Hair Tie & Bobby Pin Station: Tired of finding hair ties and bobby pins scattered everywhere? Designate a jar just for them! Toothbrush Holder (With Caution): If the jar is wide enough, youcoulduse it as a toothbrush holder. However, be sure to clean it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. I personally prefer using a dedicated toothbrush holder for hygiene reasons.
Desk Organization Domination
Pen & Pencil Holder: A no-brainer! Keeps your writing utensils organized and within reach. Paperclip & Binder Clip Storage: Corral those small office supplies that always seem to disappear. Tape Dispenser: If you have a wider jar, you can even store a roll of tape inside and run the end through a small hole in the lid (if the jar has one) for easy dispensing. Craft Supply Storage: Perfect for storing beads, buttons, glitter, and other small crafting supplies.
Kitchen Convenience
Spice Storage (Small Quantities): Smaller jars are great for storing small quantities of spices, especially if you grow your own herbs and want to dry them. Herb Garden Starter: Use a jar with some stones and potting soil to start an indoor herb garden with cuttings. Loose Tea Storage: Keep your loose-leaf tea fresh and organized. Sugar/Salt Storage: For countertop use, keeping small quantities accessible for cooking.
Beyond the Basics: Thinking Outside the Jar
Jewelry Storage: Keep your necklaces from tangling by hanging them over the rim of the jar. Store earrings and rings inside. Plant Pot: Add some drainage rocks to the bottom of the jar and plant a small succulent or herb. Candle Holder (Again!): If you like the ambiance of candles, use the jar to hold a new tea light or votive candle. Gift Jars: Fill the jar with homemade goodies like cookies, candies, or bath salts, and give it as a thoughtful gift. Decorate the jar with ribbon and a tag for a personal touch. Change Jar:Easy way to collect spare change.
Personalizing Your Jars: Making Them Your Own
Once you've cleaned and chosen your storage purpose, consider adding some personal flair!
Paint: Acrylic paint is a great way to decorate the outside of the jars. Get creative with colors and patterns. Ribbon & Twine: Tie ribbon, twine, or lace around the neck of the jar for a rustic or elegant look. Labels: Use labels to clearly identify the contents of each jar. You can use pre-printed labels or create your own using a label maker or calligraphy pen. Decoupage: Glue fabric, paper, or images onto the jar for a unique and personalized design.
I personally love using chalkboard paint on some of my jars so I can easily change the label as needed. It's especially handy for storing spices!
Addressing Common Concerns: A Mini Q&A
Are all candle jars safe to repurpose? Generally, yes, but inspect them carefully for cracks or chips before using. Avoid using jars that have been damaged, especially for storing food. Also, be mindful of the heat resistance of the glass, especially if you plan to use them for hot liquids or in the oven (see oven method warning earlier). How do I get rid of the leftover sticker residue?Goo Gone is your best friend! Alternatively, you can try rubbing alcohol or even a paste made from baking soda and water. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. What if the jar still smells like the candle?Washing it thoroughly with soap and water is usually enough to remove the scent. If the scent persists, try soaking the jar in a solution of baking soda and water overnight. You can also leave it outside in the sun for a day or two to help dissipate the smell. Can I put these jars in the dishwasher?Generally, yes, unless the jar is delicate or has any embellishments that might be damaged. However, hand-washing is always a safer option, especially for vintage or antique jars.
Final Thoughts:Giving Old Things New Life
Repurposing candle jars isn't just a practical way to organize your home; it's also a sustainable way to reduce waste and give new life to something that would otherwise end up in the landfill. It's a small act that can make a big difference.
So, next time you finish burning a candle, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful jar it came in. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform it into a stylish and functional storage solution that you'll love for years to come. Don't just toss it – transform it!
One last tip: Before you start a new candle, think about what you might want to store in the jar afterward. It'll inspire you to take good care of the jar while you use the candle so it is in good shape for repurposing later!