Candle jars create a cozy ambiance, fill our homes with beautiful scents, and elevate our daily rituals. But once the flame has burned out, we often find ourselves with an empty jar and the question: What do I do with this?
At Meet Haus, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and our candle vessels are designed to be reused. Instead of tossing them out, why not repurpose them into something both stylish and functional? In this guide, we’ll walk you through safely removing leftover wax and share creative ways to upcycle your elegant vessels into everyday essentials.
Before exploring ways to reuse candle jars, it’s essential to address a common concern: Are they safe for food storage?
Is It Safe to Reuse Candle Jars for Food Storage?
A frequently asked question is: "Is it safe to reuse candle vessels for food?" The answer depends on several factors. First, the material of the jar matters. While Meet Haus uses high-quality glass, not all candle jars are made to store food safely. Some glass containers are not food-grade and could contain chemicals or coatings unsuitable for food storage. Second, residual wax, fragrance oils, and dyes may remain even after cleaning, making it risky to use for anything edible. Suppose you plan to store dry goods such as coffee beans, tea, or sugar. In that case, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean and sanitize the jar to remove any leftover materials. However, to be safe, it is often best to repurpose candle jars for non-food storage solutions like organizing small household items or crafting unique home décor pieces.
How to Prepare Candle Containers for Reuse
Before repurposing your candle jar into something new and useful, you must remove any leftover wax. Luckily, there are a few easy and safe methods to clear that old wax and prepare your jar for its next adventure.
One of the most straightforward techniques I have found is the Freezer Method, which works exceptionally well for soy wax candles. Just pop your jar into the freezer for at least a few hours, or leave it overnight. The cold temperatures will cause the wax to shrink and harden, making it super easy to remove. When you're ready, take the jar out and gently use a spoon or a butter knife to pop the wax out in chunks. After that, all it takes is a quick wash with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue. This method is effective and mess-free—and since soy wax is typically softer, it works like a charm!
The Boiling Water Method is an excellent alternative for dealing with stubborn wax. You start by pouring hot (but not boiling) water into the candle jar, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top. As the water cools, you’ll notice the wax melting and rising to the surface. Once it’s fully hardened, you can easily remove and discard the wax properly. After the wax is out, wash the jar well with soap and water, and voilà—your jar is ready to shine again!
The Oven Method might be your best bet for those with multiple jars to clean at once. Simply preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place your candle jars upside down on the sheet and let them sit in the oven for 10-15 minutes. The heat gently melts the wax, allowing it to pool onto the parchment paper. Once the time is up, carefully remove the jars with oven mitts and wipe them clean with a cloth. It’s a super-efficient method, especially if you’ve got a collection of jars waiting to be reused.
Pro Tip: No matter which method you choose, never pour melted wax down the drain—it can cause clogs and plumbing issues. Instead, you can collect the wax, toss it in the trash, or get creative and repurpose it into wax melts or other small DIY projects, like your own fire starters. With these three methods, you can quickly and easily get your candle jars sparkling clean and ready for their next chapter. Whether it’s for storage, decor, or a new candle refill (coming soon!), a little prep work goes a long way.
Creative Ways to Reuse Candle Jars
Once your candle has burned down, your jar is just waiting for a new purpose. These sleek, minimal glass containers can be so much more than just a home for wax. Whether you're into organization, greenery, or a little DIY decor, there are plenty of ways to give them a second life.
If you love an organized space, try using your empty candle jar as a storage solution. They make perfect holders for makeup brushes, cotton rounds, or even Q-tips on your vanity. They're great for pens, paper clips, or small office supplies if you work from home (or just like a clutter-free desk). And in the kitchen? They’re just the right size for spices, loose tea, or sugar—plus, they look much better than plastic containers.
For those with a green thumb (or at least an interest in houseplants), candle jars can be turned into mini planters. Succulents thrive in them—just add a few pebbles at the bottom for drainage, top it with soil, and pop in your plant. If you’ve been wanting to try propagating plant cuttings, these jars are the perfect size for a little water and some new roots to grow.
Prefer aesthetics over practicality? Use your jar as a tea light holder and bring a cozy glow into any space. Or, fill it with fresh or dried flowers for an effortlessly chic mini vase. If you’re a match-lover, store them inside the jar and stick a strike pad to the bottom for a stylish, functional matchstick holder.
Even your bathroom can get a candle jar upgrade. Use one to hold toothbrushes, keep cotton balls neatly contained, or store your favorite homemade sugar scrubs and bath salts. These small touches can turn an everyday routine into a little luxury.
And if you’re someone who just wants more candles—we’ve got exciting news! Meet Haus is working on candle refills, so you can reuse your favorite jars without having to buy a brand-new one. Soon, you’ll be able to pick your favorite scent and refill your jar like a pro.
No matter how you decide to repurpose your candle jar, there’s no wrong way to do it. It’s a small but meaningful way to make sustainability part of your home—and let’s be real, it just feels good to turn something old into something new.
Sustainability & Meet Haus: Designed for Reuse
At Meet Haus, sustainability is at the core of our brand. Our candles are designed not only to provide bold, long-lasting scents but also to serve as reusable home décor pieces. By repurposing candle vessels, you are making an eco-conscious choice that aligns with our commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Giving sustainable vessels a second life helps minimize environmental impact while allowing you to get creative with your home and personal space.We encourage our customers to share their upcycling projects with us. If you’ve found an innovative way to reuse a Meet Haus candle jar, tag us on Instagram—we’d love to feature your creativity and inspire others to do the same!
Extend the Life of Your Candle Jars
Instead of discarding an empty candle jar, consider one of these eco-friendly ways to reuse candle jars and turn it into something useful and beautiful. Whether used for organization, decoration, or DIY projects, candle jars can serve many purposes beyond their original intent.Looking to add another beautifully crafted candle to your collection? Shop Meet Haus for bold, naturally elevated scents that last. And if you have a unique way of repurposing your candle jars, share your ideas in the comments or tag us on social media—we’d love to see what you create!
