If you’re a candle lover, chances are you’ve got a few empty candle jars collecting dust. Instead of tossing them out, why not get a bit creative? Repurposing candle jars isn’t just a fantastic way to be eco-friendly—it also gives you the perfect excuse to add some personal flair to your space.
Whether you’re looking for functional storage, unique décor, or simply a fun DIY project, these ideas will show you how to turn those empty jars into something stylish and sustainable.
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Why repurpose candle jars?
Aside from giving you an excuse to get crafty, repurposing candle jars helps reduce waste and adds personalised touches to your home. It’s cost-effective, eco-friendly, and allows you to upcycle items you already love. Plus, let’s face it, there’s something super satisfying about turning trash into treasure.
How to repurpose old candle jars
Clean the jar
Before you get creative, it’s important to give your candle jar a good clean. Cleaning leftover wax might seem tricky, but there’s an easy hack for that. Pop your candle jar in the freezer for a couple of hours—this causes the wax to harden and shrink, making it a breeze to remove. Simply grab a butter knife, gently lift the wax out, and voilà! For any stubborn bits, fill the jar with warm, soapy water to loosen them up. Just remember, don’t pour waxy water down the drain—strain it first to avoid a clogging disaster.
Do you have sticky labels left over? Soak the jar in soapy water and peel it off. For any residue, try rubbing on a bit of coconut oil or grab some rubbing alcohol to get it squeaky clean.
Get creative with repurposing ideas
Candle jars, especially the fancy ones, are just begging for a second life. Here’s how you can put them to good use:
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Storage solutions
- Use them to store cotton balls, earbuds, or hair ties in the bathroom.
- Organise your makeup brushes or lip balms.
- For kitchen lovers, they’re great for spices, tea bags, or snacks.
Bonus: they look stylish on open shelves.
Mini planters for
- Succulents, herbs, or even small flowers thrive in repurposed candle jars. Just add a layer of pebbles for drainage and a bit of soil—easy peasy and perfect for brightening up your living space.
Mini vases
- Candle jars can double as mini vases. Pop in a few fresh or dried flowers, and you’ve got an elegant centrepiece for your windowsill or dining table.
Desk organisers
- Turn your candle jars into holders for pens, pencils, or even paperclips. They’re practical, but they’ll also give your workspace a serious style boost.
Tea light holders
- Missing the candlelight? Repurpose your jar as a tealight holder. Just pop a tealight inside and enjoy the cosy ambience all over again.
Customising for that personal touch
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Want to take it up a notch? Here’s how to make your repurposed jars as unique as you are.
Paint it
If you have a plain jar, get creative with glass paint or acrylics. Add patterns, metallic accents, or even a chic matte finish to fit your décor.
Or if you’re feeling rustic, wrap twine around the top or glue on some beads for a charming, boho vibe.
Add labels for stylish organisation
If you’re repurposing for storage, labels can be both cute and functional. Make your own with a label maker, or go for a more vintage feel with hand-written tags.
Fill it with fragrance
Turn your candle jar into a natural air freshener. Fill it with dried flowers, herbs, or potpourri, and add a few drops of essential oil for an added scent boost.
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Featured Image: Unsplash
