10 Easy Ways to Upcycle & Reuse Your Candle Jars

If you're a candle lover, you probably have tons of empty candle jars around your house. This guide will show you how to repurpose those old candle jars and upcycle them into something new and valuable!

Benefits of Upcycling vs Recycling

Upcycling and recycling are both effective ways to reduce waste and minimize the demand for virgin resources. However, they differ in their approaches and each has its own benefits:

Recycling involves converting waste into materials that can be used in manufacturing new products. It's a way to manage waste that might otherwise end up in the landfill, and it reduces the demand for new raw materials. Here are some benefits of recycling:

1. Conserves resources: Recycling helps conserve natural resources by reducing the need for new raw materials. This can help preserve forests, water supplies, and minerals.
2. Reduces energy use: It often requires less energy to recycle materials into new products than to produce new materials from scratch.
3. Reduces pollution: Recycling can help reduce air and water pollution associated with mining, refining, and processing raw materials.
4. Supports public health: By reducing pollution, recycling can also contribute to better public health outcomes.
5. Creates jobs: Recycling industries create a substantial number of jobs, contributing to the economy.

Upcycling, on the other hand, is the process of transforming waste materials or unwanted products into new, higher-quality items. Here are some benefits of upcycling:

1. Reduces waste: Upcycling reduces waste by using existing materials to create new items. This helps keep materials out of the waste stream and reduces the demand for new products.
2. Energy efficient: Upcycling generally uses less energy than recycling because it doesn't require the breakdown and reformation of materials.
3. Creativity and uniqueness: Upcycled items are often unique and showcase personal creativity. It adds value through design and creativity.
4. Education and awareness: Upcycling can also educate people about the value of materials and encourage a shift towards a circular economy, where waste is minimized and resources are used as efficiently as possible.
5. Preserves history: Upcycling can give old items a new life, preserving elements of history and personal memories.

So, while recycling is excellent for reducing waste and conserving natural resources, upcycling goes a step further by adding value to waste materials and creating new, unique products. Both are crucial components of a sustainable lifestyle and circular economy.

Creative Ways to Upcycle Your Jars

Storage Containers: After cleaning, candle jars can be excellent storage containers. They can hold a variety of items from your pantry such as spices, dry fruits, nuts, and more. You can also use them to store small items like buttons, pins, or craft supplies.
Planters: If you're into gardening, candle jars can make unique planters. Succulents and small plants are especially suitable for this. Our 12oz candle jars would make perfect planters!
Terrariums: Convert your old candle jars into miniature terrariums. Add a bit of soil, some small plants, or moss, and you have a mini-ecosystem.
Bathroom Organizers: Use candle jars to keep your bathroom organized. They can hold cotton balls, swabs, make-up brushes, or bath salts.
Home Décor: Decorate the jars with paint, glitter, fabric, or twine to match your décor. You can then use these to hold tea lights or fairy lights for a soft, cozy glow.
Homemade Candles: Old candle jars are perfect if you're into candle making. Clean them out and start the process of making your own candles.
Vases: They can be used as unique, charming vases for fresh flowers. They can hold a single bloom or a small bouquet depending on the size.
Candy Jars: Cleaned candle jars can be used as candy or cookie jars. They'll make an excellent addition to your kitchen counter.
Sewing Kit: The jars can be a compact storage solution for sewing supplies like threads, needles, and buttons.
Gift Packaging: Next time you need to give a small gift, consider using an upcycled candle jar. It's a unique, eco-friendly alternative to traditional gift boxes or bags.

How To Clean Your Jars

Before you repurpose candle jars, make sure you clean them thoroughly. Here's how:

1. Remove the leftover wax: Put the jar in the freezer for a few hours. The cold will cause the wax to shrink, making it easier to remove. You can also melt the leftover wax by placing the jar in boiling water.
2. Wash the jar: Once you've removed the wax, wash the jar with warm soapy water. Then, use a scrubbing sponge to remove any remaining wax residue.
3. Remove the label: If there's a label on the jar, you can soak it in warm soapy water or use a product designed to remove adhesive residue.
4. Dry the jar: Thoroughly dry the jar before you start using it for another purpose.