Recycle Candles Into Wax Melts

We are very much into recycling many household items these days, and recycling candles into wax melts is a great way to re-purpose leftover candle wax and reduce waste.

We all like to do our bit for the environment, so by being creative and reusing candle wax, we not only find ourselves a new hobby but can also re-produce another popular home item.

Candles are bought for many occasions, and we often find that certain types of candles burn unevenly, leaving a lot of leftover wax around the sides of the container. Many candles have been ‘tunnelled’, and the leftover wax and its container have been thrown away.

By reading my article on reusing candle jars, you can use your creativity and reuse any candle jars you have at home.

Wax melts have gained popularity over the years, so let’s look at why.

Recycle candles into wax melts

Scented Ambiance

Wax melts are known for creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. I love to walk into my clients’ homes and smell a burning candle, and others comment on the scent in my own house.

When melted, wax melts release aromatic fragrances, filling the space with delightful scents.

This can enhance the mood, create a relaxing ambience, or add a touch of luxury to any room. They’re also good for eliminating pet and food smells.

Safety

Compared to traditional candles that are lit, wax melts are considered a safer option because they don’t have an open flame.

They are typically used with electric or tea light wax warmers, which provide a controlled heat source for melting the wax. This eliminates the risk of fire hazards, making them a popular choice, especially for those who have pets and small children.

I use the tea light options as I find the flame relaxing to watch when it’s nearby.

Easy to Use

Wax melts are convenient to use. They come in small, compact shapes or cubes that are easy to handle and store. Place a wax melt or two into a wax warmer, turn it on, and wait for the fragrance to fill the air.

Alternatively, light a tea light candle and watch the wax melt. You won’t have to worry about trimming wicks or cleaning up melted wax.

Variety of Scents

There is a wide selection of scents available online at places such as eBay and here at FM World. Whether you prefer floral, fruity, woody, or seasonal fragrances, there is a wax melt available to suit your taste. At FM, there are also options for buying wax melts to match your favourite perfume.

Longevity

Wax melts have a longer lifespan compared to traditional candles. I was amazed by how long they lasted. I have only used 3 or 4 cubes so far from my pack. Each wax melt can provide hours of the fragrance before it needs to be replaced.

This makes them more cost-effective in the long run, as you can enjoy the scent for an extended period without frequently purchasing new melts.

Customisation

Another reason for their popularity is the ability to mix and match different wax melts. Many enjoy creating unique scents by combining melts in their wax warmers.

This is an excellent idea for those who wish to be creative and personalise their preferences.

Decorative Appeal

Wax melts often have attractive designs and colours, making them visually pleasing. Some people enjoy displaying wax melts as decorative items even when they are not in use.

Items required for recycling candles into wax melts

Materials

Used candles or candle wax remnants

Double boiler or a heatproof container and a saucepan

Wax melt moulds or silicone ice cube trays

Wickless candle wicks (optional)

Fragrance oils or essential oils (optional)

Stirring utensil (metal spoon or wooden stick)

Wax paper or parchment paper

Preparing the candle wax

Start by collecting used candles or candle wax remnants from existing candle or wax melt containers. Remove any metal wicks, labels, or debris from the wax.

If you have different coloured or scented candle wax, you can combine them to create unique wax melts, as we mentioned earlier. Otherwise, you can use one type of wax for a consistent fragrance.

Melt the wax

Set up a double boiler (if you have one) by filling a saucepan halfway with water and placing a heatproof container on top. Alternatively, you can use a heatproof container directly on low heat. Be careful not to overheat, as this could burn the wax.

Break the candle wax into small pieces, or use a cheese grater to shred it. This will speed up the melting time and help melt it evenly.

Place the wax pieces or shreds into the top double boiler container or the heatproof container. Slowly heat the water or container until the wax has melted completely, stirring occasionally.

Add fragrance

This is optional if you wish to add your desired scent and fragrance oils or essential oils, which can be added to your melted wax for scented wax melts. Follow the recommended usage rates the oil manufacturer provides for the best results.

Stir the fragrance/essential oil into the melted wax thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.

Pour the melted wax

Prepare your wax melt moulds or silicone ice cube trays. Place them on a flat, heat-resistant surface. Place candle wicks in the centre of each mould if you’re using candle wicks.

Slowly pour the melted wax into the moulds, filling them to a safe level. Be careful not to overfill, as this will prevent spillages and also make it easier to remove the wax melts at a later stage.

If you’re not using wickless candle wicks, you can pour the melted wax directly into the moulds without additional preparation.

Allow the wax melts to cool and solidify.

Let the wax melts sit undisturbed for several hours or until completely cooled and solidified. The time needed will depend on the size and thickness of your creations.

Remove the wax melts.

Once the wax melts have hardened, gently pop them out of the moulds. If they don’t come out easily, you can briefly freeze the moulds to make removal easier.

Store and use your homemade wax melts.

Place the wax melts in a container or storage bag, ensuring they are tightly sealed to retain their fragrance.

To use the wax melts, place one or more in a wax melt warmer or an electric wax warmer, following the instructions provided with the device and enjoy the beautiful scents and ambience created by YOU!

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Another option is to purchase a starter kit containing all the necessary items to make your wax melts.

Starter kits on eBay

Of course, making your wax melts takes time, so if you want to purchase ones already made, there are plenty of options.

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