How to Clean & Repurpose Your Candle Jar - Amaryllis Custom Crafts

How to Clean & Repurpose Your Candle Jar

Your Jar Deserves a Second Life

We put a lot of care into every jar we pour; which is why we love hearing how our customers repurpose them! Whether it's a succulent planter, a cotton ball holder, a pencil cup, or a bathroom organizer, an empty Amaryllis candle jar is too pretty to throw away. Here's exactly how to clean it out safely.

Method 1: The Gentle Warming Method (Recommended)

What You'll Need

  • Conventional or toaster oven
  • Oven mit or hand towel
  • Bowl
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Paper towels or a cloth rag (one you don't mind getting waxy)
  • Metal fork or spoon

The Method

  • Set your oven on the lowest setting (aim for 120*F - 140*F)
  • Place the candle jar on a foil lined baking sheet in the oven
  • Let it gently warm until all of the wax is liquid and translucent
  • Cover a small bowl with aluminum foil or wax paper (careful not to tear holes!)
  • Place a couple paper towels, napkins, or a cloth rag in the bowl (optional to decrease cooling time and risk of spilling)
  • Using a towel or oven mit, remove the jar from the oven and pour the wax into the prepared bowl
  • Use a metal fork or spoon to remove the metal wick tab
  • Let the jar cool enough to touch comfortably (but still warm)
  • Wash jar with hot/warm water and dish soap. DO NOT put in dishwasher while wax remains in the jar.
  • Let the wax in the bowl cool completely then discard
  • Find a new journey for your jar! Keep reading for ideas and inspiration. 

Method 2: The Freezer Method

  1. Place the jar in the freezer for 1–2 hours.
  2. Once the wax is fully frozen, use a butter knife to pop it out in one or two pieces; it should release cleanly from the sides.
  3. Wipe out any residue with a paper towel.
  4. Wash with hot soapy water and let dry completely.

Method 3: The Hot Water Method

Good option for those without an oven. 

  1. Boil water and carefully pour it into the jar, leaving an inch of space at the top.
  2. The wax will melt and float to the surface.
  3. Let it cool completely — the wax disc will harden on top and can be lifted right out.
  4. Pour out the water, wipe the jar clean, and wash with soap and hot water.


Note: Never pour melted wax down the drain — it will solidify and clog your pipes. Dispose of wax solids in the trash.


Label Removal

Soak the jar in warm water for 5–10 minutes, then use a plastic scraper, credit card, or towel to scrape or rub the label off. Any sticky residue can be removed with a little rubbing alcohol or coconut oil on a paper towel. Do not use metal objects to scrape as they will scratch the jar.

Ideas for Repurposing Your Jar

  • 🌱 Mini succulent or air plant planter
  • ✏️ Desk organizer for pens, scissors, or brushes
  • 🛁 Bathroom storage for cotton balls, q-tips, or hair ties
  • 🍓 Small kitchen storage for spices or sweeteners
  • ♨️Place wax melts in it and use a candle warmer
  • ♻️Clean metal candle tins can be recycled!
  • 🎍Bamboo lids can be composted or placed in yard debris bins (make sure you remove the silicone gasket!)

More Candle Care Tips

For more ways to get the most from your Amaryllis candles, visit our Tips, Tricks, Care, and Cleaning page.

When you're ready for your next favorite scent, browse our handcrafted Signature Collection Jar Candles or choose a scent from any of our lines with a custom Jar Candle.

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