How to Reuse Candle Jars

Comfort camouflages itself in the form of many things, but when it comes to your home, it's hard to find a cozier item than a candle. While they're typically heralded for the atmosphere, scent, and lighting they bring to a room, many candle connoisseurs don't realize the potential their favorite waxy accents have post-burn.

If your candle is on its last legs, you have plenty of options that'll allow it to have a second life. Whether you're in need of a new planter or a catch-all for your bathroom, an old candle container can do it. But first, you'll need to learn the trick to getting them sparkling clean.

The freezer method. This is one of the easiest ways to get every last bit of wax out of a glass jar. Stick the candle in the freezer for at least an hour, then very carefully use a butter knife or spoon to pop up the remaining layer of wax. If it's not coming out, gently break cracks into it and let the pieces fall out. Once you've gotten the majority of the wax out, remove the wick and its holder by lightly tugging it with your fingers. If it's being stubborn, a pair of pliers will do the trick. Once everything is out, use hot soapy water to remove any residue.

The hot water method. If there's no room in your freezer, try the hot water trick. Boil a cup of water, then very carefully pour it into the candle jar. After a few minutes, the wax should either pop up on its own or you can gently jab with a spoon or butter knife to help it loosen. Rinse with soap and hot water.

Removing the label. If the jar has a label, removal is fairly quick and simple. Use mineral oil and hot soapy water to help lift the adhesive and scrape it off or place it under a warm hair dryer for 30 seconds to a minute, then peel it off.

No DIY skills are necessary for any of these repurposing hacks, which require nothing more than for your newly cleaned out candle container.

Finding the right pot can prove difficult, but you've already given your candles a check of approval, so why not reuse those jars as succulent containers? They'll look sleek and if you have more than one of the same candle, they'll match perfectly, too.

If your desk looks like it was pulled from an "I Spy" book photoshoot, a 10-minute organization break is in order. Simply use old candle jars to store pens, paper clips, staples, and all the other items that make your workspace a productive one.

You don't have to go out of your way to source those chic ceramic bowls you always see in celebrity chef kitchens. Give shallow or miniature candle jars a new existence by keeping your salt and pepper inside or to help you separate out ingredients when you're cooking.

Set an empty glass on top of your vanity or in your bathroom to provide a space for jewelry, hair accessories, or lipsticks. It'll keep everything neat and tidy and make missing earrings a thing of the past.

No need to leave the house to search for the perfect herb garden containers. Simply add some soil and seeds and watch your plants — and your culinary expertise — grow. They also look far more stylish (and are much more earth-friendly) than those basic plastic pots.

Add a few coiled rolls of fairy lights to a couple of empty candle jars and place them in your window. It'll add instant mood lighting, whether you're having dinner for two indoors or setting up a Saturday evening movie night for the fam.

Clear glass containers (especially the ones with sophisticated lids) make for perfect gift boxes once you've washed them out. Stack them with chocolates and other sweets and finish everything off with a shiny metallic bow. Friends and family will appreciate the unique twist.

Giant candle containers or those in the shape of hurricane glasses provide many fantastic upcycling opportunities. Repurpose them as vases for those surprise bouquets, place an assortment of cooking utensils in them, or fill them with things like seashells or stones for a table centerpiece.