How to Clean Candle Jars: Your Guide to Removing Candle Wax

Wondering how to clean candle jars or how to remove wax from a candle jar? You’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we get. The good news? It’s easier than you think. At reativ, we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you remove candle wax safely and get your empty jars refill-ready for your next ritual.

Empty candle vessels don’t need to gather dust — they’re the perfect starting point for your next candle refill. Whether it’s a ceramic favourite, a glass jar, or a vessel you’ve held onto because it feels too beautiful to throw away, preparing it properly ensures your next candle burns clean and evenly, and is ready to refill when you are.

Step 1: Melt Out the Wax (Boiling Water Method)

Safety first: Always make sure your vessel is sturdy and heat-safe before pouring in boiling water. Thin or delicate glass may crack under sudden temperature changes, so always ensure you only use jars designed for candles — like our reusable ceramic vessels.

Boil the kettle and carefully pour boiling water into your empty candle jar — just enough to cover the leftover wax. The heat will melt the wax, which will rise to the surface. Once the water cools, the wax will solidify into a disc you can simply lift out. Repeat if necessary.

Step 2: Remove the Wick Base

Most candles leave behind a small metal wick tab at the bottom. Use a spoon or your fingers and a cloth to gently lift it out. After that, wipe away and discard any leftover residue to avoid any possibility of wax clogging your sink or dishwasher later.

Step 3: Wash and Clean the Jar

Once the wax is removed, it’s time to give your vessel a proper clean. You can:

• Hand-wash with warm, soapy water.

• Dishwasher clean if the vessel is dishwasher-safe (like our reusable ceramic vessel) — just make sure all wax is removed first.

This step ensures your jar is sparkling clean, free of residue, and ready for a fresh pour.

Step 4: Refill and Reuse

Now that your vessel is clean, it’s time to use your reativ candle refill kit. 

Secure your new wick, melt the candle wax pouch in the microwave, mix in your fragrance, pour, and let it set for two hours. That’s it — your freshly refilled candle is ready to burn the same day.

Why It Matters

Learning how to remove candle wax from a jar not only helps you recycle beautiful vessels, it makes your candle refill ritual more sustainable and satisfying. Clean jars mean:

• Longer, cleaner burns.

• Less waste in landfill.

• A smoother, easier refill process every time.

Candle Cleaning FAQ

Can you put candle jars in the dishwasher?
Yes — but only after removing all wax and residue, and if the vessel is dishwasher safe. Leftover wax could potentially clog your dishwasher in the long run. Hand-wash with warm, soapy water first, or use a cloth to wipe out residue before running it through the dishwasher.

What is the easiest way to remove candle wax from a jar?
The boiling water method is one of the easiest. Pour boiling water into your jar, let the wax melt and float to the surface, then cool and lift it out as a disc.

Can I reuse any candle jar?
Not all vessels are safe to reuse. Always make sure your jar is sturdy, heat-safe, and designed for candles. Very thin or delicate glass can crack when exposed to boiling water or heat from a new candle.

Do I need to remove the metal wick tab?
Yes. Every refill needs a fresh wick, so always remove the metal wick base from your empty jar before pouring a new candle.

Why should I clean candle jars before refilling?
A clean vessel ensures a smooth pour, even burn, and better fragrance throw. It also prevents old wax or soot from affecting the quality of your new candle.

At Reativ, we make it effortless to reuse and refill your empty candles. Whether you’re starting fresh with our Refillable Candle Kit or topping up an empty favourite with a Candle Refill, keeping your jars clean and refill-ready ensures your ritual never skips a beat.

Ready to try it yourself? Explore our Candle Refill Kits here.