How to Remove Dirt From Candles

How to Get Dried Candle Wax out of the Sink & Garbage Disposal
Written By
Mary Ylisela
Mary Ylisela
Published: Nov 29, 2010
Updated: Nov 5, 2021
1 minute read

Things You'll Need:

Things You Will Need

  • Old pair of nylons
  • Scissors
  • Lint-free cloths
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Hand sanitizer wipes (optional)
  • Like any other decoration or functional item in your home, candles get dirty and dusty, too. You may not think about needing to clean candles, but if you don't burn them everyday they become dirty over time. Cleaning candles requires the use of supplies and techniques that are appropriate for waxy, oil-based items. Left dirty, the dirt and debris will burn along with your candles the next time you light them, which can cause smoke or odors.

    Cut an old pair of nylons so just the foot and about eight inches of the leg is left. Discard the rest of the nylons. Wipe the surface of your dirty candles to remove dust.

    Wet a lint-free cloth with rubbing alcohol, squeezing out excess liquid. Wash your candles' surface to remove dirt and stains. If preferred, you can use hand-sanitizer wipes instead, as long as they're not alcohol-free.

    Pat your candles dry with another lint-free cloth to remove moisture from the cleaning process. Before using, allow the candles to air dry overnight.

    Mary Ylisela

    Mary Ylisela is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and mathematics. She has been a writer since 1996, specializing in business, fitness and education. Prior to teaching, Ylisela worked as a certified fitness…

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