What to Do with Leftover Wax: Sustainable Way to Use Every Last Bit
Candles bring warmth, ambiance, and comfort into our homes—but what happens when you're left with that last bit of wax at the bottom of the jar? Instead of tossing it out, why not find creative, sustainable ways to reuse every last drop?
At Sunbeam Candles, we believe in reducing waste and honoring the craftsmanship that goes into every candle. Whether you want to make new candles, DIY wax melts, or repurpose wax in unexpected ways, we've got you covered!
Why It's Important to Repurpose Leftover Wax
Every year, tons of candles are used, but not all the wax gets burned. While Sunbeam Candles' 100% cotton wicks are biodegradable and compostable, the leftover wax can still be reused rather than discarded. By repurposing wax, you're reducing waste and making the most of natural resources.
Every candle is crafted with care, from the wax to the wick. By repurposing leftover wax, you're not only reducing waste but also honoring the craftsmanship and natural materials that went into making it.
Plus, repurposing wax can save you money and spark creativity!
1. Gather & Prepare Your Leftover Wax
Before you get started, follow these steps to collect and clean wax from your favorite candles, these steps work great to remove wax from our amber glass jars & ceramic vessels.
Ways to Remove Wax from a Candle Container:
- Freeze the container for a few hours—cold wax shrinks and pops out easily.
- Pour hot (not boiling) water into the jar—the wax will soften and float to the top as it cools.
- Scrape out the wax with a spoon or knife if it's already loose.
If you're working with a pillar candle, you likely won't need to remove wax from a container. Simply cut of pull out the wick, and the wax is ready to be reused!
2. Make New Candles from Old Wax
You can create a new candle with your leftover wax!
DIY Recycled Candle Steps:
- Melt the wax in a double boiler
- Prepare a new wick in a heat-safe jar or mold
- Pour in the wax, letting it cool and harden
- Trim the wick to 1/4", and enjoy your handmade candle!
Pro Tip: Want to create your own signature scent? Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil while the wax is melted to create your own aromatherapy blend!
3. Create DIY Wax Melts for Warmers
Wax melts are an eco-friendly way to enjoy fragrance from your leftover candles.
How to Make Wax Melts:
- Melt the wax in a double boiler.
- Pour into small silicone molds
- Let cool completely before popping them out.
- Store in an airtight container and use in your wax warmer!
4. Craft Your Own Fire Starters
If you love cozy nights by the fire, leftover wax can be turned into eco-friendly fire starters! Perfect for using leftover wax from your favorite fall or winter-holiday candles.
DIY Fire Starter Instructions:
- Gather materials like pinecones, cotton pads, or shredded paper.
- Melt leftover wax and dip your materials in it.
- Let them dry, then use them to start your next fire.
Perfect for: Campfires, fireplaces, and even grilling!
5. Seal Envelopes & Letters with Wax
For a vintage, elegant touch, try using leftover wax to seal letters, invitations or gift tags for occasions like a wedding, birthday, Mother's Day or Valentine's Day. Simply melt a small amount and drip it onto an envelope flap or gift tag before stamping it with a seal.
6. Lubricate Sticky Drawers & Zippers
Did you know that wax works as a natural lubricant? Rub a small piece of leftover wax from your candles along:
- Stiff wooden drawers
- Sticky zippers
- Squeaky door hinges
7. Make Waterproof Matches & Fabric
Wax creates a waterproof barrier, making it perfect for:
- Coating match tips for outdoor adventures
- Sealing shoelaces to prevent fraying
- Making canvas bags water-resistant
8. Condition & Protect Tools
Wax can help prevent rust and corrosion on metal tools. Just rub a little wax on garden shears, saws or even kitchen knives to keep them in great shape. This works especially well with plant-based natural waxes such as beeswax.
Sunbeam Candles: Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Sunbeam Candles, we craft every candle with sustainability and ethical practices in mind. Whether you're enjoying one of our sculpted candles, hand-dipped tapers or aromatherapy pillars, we truly make earth-friendly candles.
By repurposing your wax, you're joining us in making a difference—one candle at a time.
A Little Goes a Long Way
Before you throw out that last bit of wax from your aromatherapy pillar, think about all the ways you can repurpose it. Whether you're making new candles, DIY wax melts, or fire starters, you're reducing waste and getting creative in the process!
Ready to explore more sustainable candle options? Check out our entire collection of candles
The Everything Under the Sun sculpted candle is a Sunbeam Original, exclusively designed and handcrafted in our studio.
FAQ's
1. Can I mix different types of wax together?
A: Yes! All plant-based waxes—including soy, coconut, and sustainably harvest palm wax—can be blended together. Beeswax can also be mixed in with them, though it's higher melting point may affect the texture and burn.
Avoid using paraffin wax—it contains toxins that can release harmful fumes when burned, making it unsuitable for reuse in candles or melts. Stick to natural plant-based waxes for safe and sustainable repurposing. Your body and the planet will thank you!
2. How do I add fragrance to reused wax?
A: Once melted, stir in a few drops of essential oils, or use leftover wax from your aromatherapy candle with essential oils already added.
3. Can I reuse wax from candles with burned wick debris?
A: Absolutely! Just strain out the wick remnants and debris with cheese cloth before repurposing the wax.
Connect With Us
At Sunbeam Candles, we love sharing sustainable candle care tips and creative DIYs. Want to stay inspired?
Follow us on social media for more candle care ideas and sustainability tips.
Browse our collection of handcrafted plant-based candles
We truly make earth-friendly candles!