Using boiling water is an effective method to clean leftover wax from candle containers so they can be reused. This simple process relies on the principle that hot water melts wax, causing it to separate from the container.
The Process Explained
Boiling water is typically added to a candle container after the candle has burned down, as a way to clean out the remaining wax and prepare the container for reuse or recycling. The heat from the water melts the stubborn wax stuck to the sides and bottom.
Here's how to do it based on the provided method:
- Prepare the container: Ensure the container is on a heat-safe surface.
- Add boiling water: Pour boiling water into the candle container, leaving some room at the top. Do not fill it to the brim.
- Observe: The hot water will melt the wax, which will then float to the surface. You'll see the melted wax forming a layer on top of the water.
- Cool Down: Allow the water to cool completely (about an hour). As the water cools, the melted wax on the surface will solidify again, forming a disk or chunks.
- Remove Wax: Once cool, then remove the wax disk or pieces from the surface of the water.
- Dispose Carefully: Use your sink strainer when pouring out the water, as wax will clog your drain. Dispose of the solidified wax in the trash, not down the sink.
Why This Method Works
This technique leverages the difference in density between water and wax. When the boiling water is added, it heats and melts the wax. Liquid wax is less dense than water, so it rises and floats on top. As the water cools, the wax hardens again, making it easy to lift out of the container.
Important Tip: Protect Your Plumbing
It is crucial to avoid pouring melted or solidified wax down your drain. Wax can solidify in pipes, causing blockages. Always use a sink strainer or pour the cooling water into a separate container first to catch any small wax pieces before disposing of the water. The removed wax should be discarded in the trash.
