How To Clean and Reuse Expensive Candles

Refilling a traditional candle jar with candle sand is an excellent practice because it combines sustainability with creativity. Rather than discarding a high-quality glass jar, you give it a new life, reducing waste and the need to purchase new containers. It also allows for personalisation – layering different colours of sand or choosing decorative designs can turn a simple jar into a beautiful home accessory.

Materials Needed

• Traditional jar candle (glass)
• Spoon or butter knife
• Freezer
• Warm water (not boiling)
• Mild washing-up liquid
• Paper towels or microfibre cloth
• Rubbing alcohol (optional, for sticky residue)
• Simpsons of London Candle Sand
• New wick (with SOL candle sand packs)
• Chopstick or skewer (to keep the wick centred)

Step 1: Remove Old Wax

• Freeze the candle: Place the jar in the freezer for 1–2 hours.
• Pop out wax: Tap gently or use a wooden skewer or spoon to remove chunks.
• Scrape residue: Use a plastic or wooden spoon to remove leftover wax. Avoid metal – it can scratch the jar.

Step 2: Clean the Jar

• Warm water soak: Fill the jar with lukewarm water and a few drops of washing-up liquid.
• Leave to soak 10–15 minutes: This loosens any remaining wax.
• Gently scrub: Use a soft sponge to remove wax remnants.
• Sticky residue: Wipe with rubbing alcohol if needed.

Step 3: Dry the Jar

• Dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towels.
• Make sure the jar is completely dry before adding sand. Moisture can cause the sand to clump or spoil decorative layers.

Step 4: Add Candle Sand

• Pour the Candle Sand slowly to avoid spillage.
• Tap the jar lightly to level the sand.

Step 5: Prepare the Wick

• Place the new wick in the centre of the jar.
• The wick should be 5–7 mm above the sand.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

• Wipe the outside of the jar to remove dust or sand.
• If using as a functional candle: light carefully, monitoring the first burn.
• If decorative only: your jar is ready to display!

Extra Tips

• Keep the jar dry between refills.
• Avoid overfilling – leave around 1 cm from the top.