If you quickly burn through your favorite scented candles, throwing away the glass jars just feels wasteful.

But first, you’ll need to remove the wax from your container.

Burning a candle past this point can damage the container or even the surface it’s sitting on.

pouring water into candle jar

Credit: Carson Downing

Place your spent candle on a protective surface, like a dish towel or a potholder.

The water will melt the candle wax, causing it to float to the surface of the container.

Step 2: Remove Wax

Let cool completely before removing the wax.

scooping wax out of glass jar

Credit: Carson Downing

With your sink drain stopped, strain the water and remaining candle bits.

Discard or save the wax for future projects.

Put in a drain stopper and fill your sink with warm water.

hands holding tray of overturned glasses

Credit: Carson Downing

The water will release the wax at the bottom of the container and make it easy to pull out.

Keep in mind that this method will likely remove the label on the jar.

Start by placing a spent candle jar in the freezer overnight.

candle jar of wax with blow dryer

Credit: Carson Downing

Begin by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Heat Wax in Oven

Place the baking sheet into the heated oven.

They can also be used to soften the wax in a spent candle for removal.

empty candle jars holding office supplies

Credit: Carson Downing

Begin by holding your candle with an oven mitt.

For stubborn buildup, use an adhesive remover, such as Goo Gone.

A bottle brush might also be useful if the candle mouth is too narrow for your hand.

Let cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

Many candle jars fit this description.

Just don’t store food in them in case there is residual scent left over from the candle.