How to Recycle Old Candles: Create Something New with MUYMOI

How to Recycle Old Candles: Create Something New with MUYMOI

If you have leftover candle wax from partially burned candles, don’t toss it out—recycle it! Repurposing old candles is a sustainable and creative way to reduce waste while making beautiful, personalized new candles. Whether you want to use MUYMOI molds for unique shapes or a jar for a classic container candle, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Why Recycle Candles?

  • Eco-Friendly: Reduce waste and give a second life to wax that would otherwise be discarded.
  • Budget-Friendly: Save money by repurposing existing materials instead of buying new wax.
  • Creative Freedom: Combine different wax colors, scents, and textures to craft one-of-a-kind candles.

What You’ll Need

  1. Leftover Candle Wax – Scraps from old candles in any type of wax (e.g., soy, beeswax, paraffin).
  2. MUYMOI Silicone Molds or a Glass Jar – For shaping your new candles.
  3. Wicks – Choose the right size for your mold or jar.
  4. Double Boiler – For safely melting the wax.
  5. Strainer – Optional, to filter out debris like burnt wick pieces.
  6. Fragrance Oils – Optional, to refresh the scent of your new candle.
  7. Color Dyes – Optional, to adjust or mix new colors.
  8. Glue or Wick Stickers – To secure the wick in place.
  9. Wooden Skewer or Wick Holder – To keep the wick centered as the wax cools.

Step-by-Step Guide to Recycling Candles

1. Gather and Sort Your Wax

  • Collect leftover wax from old candles, ensuring it’s free of debris like soot or wick fragments.
  • Sort by wax type if possible (e.g., keep soy wax separate from paraffin or beeswax). Different waxes have varying melting points and may not mix perfectly.

2. Prepare Your Mold or Jar

  • If using MUYMOI molds:
    • Clean the mold to remove any dust or residue.
    • Insert the wick into the mold, securing it with a wick holder or skewer.
  • If using a jar:
    • Clean the jar and attach the wick to the bottom using glue or a wick sticker.
    • Use a skewer or wick holder to keep the wick upright and centered.

3. Melt the Wax

  • Break the leftover wax into small pieces for even melting.
  • Use a double boiler to melt the wax slowly over medium heat. (Avoid direct heat, as it can cause the wax to overheat or burn.)
  • Stir gently as the wax melts, and strain it through a fine mesh strainer if needed to remove debris.

4. Add Fragrance or Color (Optional)

  • Once the wax is fully melted, you can add a few drops of fragrance oil to refresh the scent.
  • If you want to change or enhance the color, add small amounts of candle dye and stir until evenly mixed.

5. Pour the Wax

  • Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared mold or jar.
  • Leave a small gap at the top if using a jar to prevent overflow.
  • Make sure the wick remains centered as you pour.

6. Let the Candle Set

  • Allow the wax to cool and harden at room temperature. This can take several hours, depending on the size of the mold or jar.
  • Avoid moving the mold or jar while the wax is setting to ensure a smooth surface.

7. Remove from Mold (if applicable)

  • For silicone molds, gently press the sides of the mold to release the candle once it’s fully hardened.
  • Trim the wick to about 1 cm before use.

Tips for Success

  1. Layered Candles: If you have wax scraps in different colors, pour them in layers, letting each one cool before adding the next. This creates a beautiful striped effect.
  2. Mixing Scents: Combine complementary fragrance oils for a unique aroma (e.g., lavender and vanilla).
  3. Decorative Elements: Add dried flowers, herbs, or glitter to the top layer of your candle for a creative touch.
  4. Leftover Wax Bits: If you have extra melted wax after filling your molds or jars, pour it into a small container or tealight mold to avoid waste.

Why Use MUYMOI Molds for Recycling Candles?

MUYMOI silicone molds are perfect for candle recycling because they:

  • Offer modern, artistic shapes for unique designs.
  • Are reusable and easy to clean, supporting your sustainability goals.
  • Provide a smooth release, even for detailed designs.

Benefits of Recycling Candles in a Jar

  • Simple and Practical: Ideal for beginners or those without molds.
  • Versatile: Repurpose jars from your kitchen (e.g., jam or yogurt jars).
  • Functional Design: Jars are great for container candles that burn evenly and safely.

Conclusion

Recycling old candles is an eco-friendly way to breathe new life into wax that might otherwise go to waste. With MUYMOI molds or a simple jar, you can create stunning new candles that reflect your personal style while helping the environment. Plus, the process is fun, creative, and perfect for candle makers of all levels!

Ready to start your candle recycling journey? Explore MUYMOI’s collection of premium silicone molds and candle-making accessories today!

 

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.