Making The Most of Your Candles

Let's face it, good candles are expensive.

Whether it's Voluspa, diptyque,Yankee Candle or Bath & Body Works, they can easily run upwards of $20. I don't mind spending money on good candles because they tend to smoke less and burn longer.

What I do mind spending money on is this:

When a candle doesn't burn all the way to the bottom and there is still a 1/4 of the wax left in the jar, it really irritates me. I've tried a lot of things to extend the life of the candle, such as placing a tea candle on top of the existing wax. But it doesn't smell nearly as good as when the actual wick is melting the wax.

Then it occurred to me, that I could actually use the leftover wax in my plug-in wax warmer! If you have a Scentsy or other form of plug-in wax warmer, give this a try next time your favorite candle burns out.

Step 1: Freeze the candle.
There's something scientific that goes on when you freeze wax. I'm sure it has something to do with changing molecules and other smart things, but basically it shrinks the wax just enough that it is easily removed with a sharp paring knife.

My candle fresh out of the freezer

Step 2: Remove the wax
Gently slide a sharp paring knife along the edge of the candle to loosen the wax and it should "pop out".

Step 3: Cut the wax
Gently break up the wax into small chunks. It doesn't matter what shapes they are because they're going to melt.

Step 4: Use your wax!
Place a few chunks into your candle warmer and put the rest into a ziploc baggie for later. Remember to store it in a cool, dry place.

If you want to take it one step further, most Bath & Body Works candles have labels on them that are also very easily removed. If there is any residue left behind, Windex or "Goo Gone" works great to get the glass completely clean!

Just peel back the label...

Voila! A nice, clean votive candle holder!

So next time you spend $9.50 for a votive candle, just remember that you really can get your money's worth if you're willing to put in a little effort.

What's your favorite household tip? I'd love to hear it!