How to Clean Candle Wax

What You'll Need

• Ice cubes
• Plastic scraper
• Iron and brown paper bag (or paper towels)
• Rubbing alcohol
• Dish soap

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Harden the wax with ice

   Place ice cubes on the wax (in a plastic bag if needed). Cold makes the wax brittle.

2. 2

   Scrape with a plastic scraper

   Once hardened, scrape the wax off with a plastic scraper. Most should come off.

3. 3

   Apply heat to remaining wax

   Cover the remaining wax with a brown paper bag or paper towels. Iron over the top on low heat -- the wax melts into the paper.

4. 4

   Treat color stain

   If the wax was colored and left a stain, dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball.

5. 5

   Wash if fabric

   Wash the fabric normally with dish soap pre-treatment if needed. Repeat if any color remains.

Pro Tips

• TIPAlways test the iron method on a hidden area first -- some fabrics can scorch.
• TIPUse a hair dryer instead of an iron for delicate items, blowing the air at the wax until it softens.
• TIPChoose drip-free candles or place candles on plates to prevent wax accidents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XTrying to wipe up hot wax, which spreads it into a larger area.
• XUsing a metal scraper, which scratches the surface underneath.
• XUsing too much heat from the iron, which can scorch fabric or wood.

Frequently Asked Questions