This post may contain references and links to products from our advertisers. We may receive commissions from certain links you click on our website. As an Amazon Associate Rhythm of the Home earns revenues from qualifying purchases.
Lit candles can enhance the atmosphere of any room with their pleasant light. Among the biggest downsides of a candle is the wax dripping and creating pools that can stain various surfaces. Even a small drip of wax is enough to create a messy situation and make you less excited about using candles. While having a wax stain is a cause for concern, there are specialized removal methods you can try. No matter how tricky the stain may appear, you can deal with it by using the correct cleaning strategies.
Let’s see the best ways to remove candle wax from any surface.
1. Scrape it Off
Before you try to tackle the stain, it’s important to get rid of any excess wax from the affected spot. Use a butter knife or a similar tool to scrape it off from the surface. If the wax stain is on fabric, you will have to be extra careful to avoid pushing the wax deeper into the fibers.
2. Cool the Wax
Cooling the wax works very well to scrape off the last bits that are stubbornly stuck to the surface. If the stain is found on a small item like a candle holder, you should try putting it into the freezer to chill for some time. This is practical for clothing or other fabrics such as table runners. However, large items will need to be cooled with the help of ice packs or ice cubes.
Don’t apply the ice pack directly to the wax stain. Wrap it in a protective towel to take advantage only of the chilling effect. The wax will begin to harden after approximately one hour, sometimes less. Check the color of the wax to figure out if you still need to let the ice pack on the stain. Dark and opaque wax is likely ready to remove.
3. Remove the Wax Pieces
With the help of a scraping tool like a butter knife, you can now chip off leftover wax residues after they’ve hardened properly. Keep the tool parallel to the item and work slowly to avoid any accidental damage to the affected item.
4. Eliminate Greasy Spots
Removing candle wax from the surface is relatively easy if you’ve followed the previous steps. The problem is when you’re left with some greasy spots in the place of the stain. Depending on the surface type, you will have to use different methods. If you’re cleaning the greasy wax residue from typical household objects, you just need to scrub the affected spot with some all-purpose cleaner.
Clothes or other fabrics featuring greasy wax stains should be cleaned a bit differently. That residual wax can be harder to remove as it’s embedded deeper into the fibers. You need to lift it out by using a warm iron that’s not too hot. Start by putting multiple paper towels on the stained area. These will absorb the melted grease once you press over the warm iron. It’s recommended to switch to clean paper towels as you continue transferring wax from the fabric through the iron’s heat.
If you’re cleaning wax stains from a clothing item, it’s a good idea to throw the garment into the washing machine even if there’s no visible greasy residue on its surface. Make sure you inspect the washed item before using the dryer. You need to be absolutely sure that no leftover wax remains on the affected area to prevent an unpleasant situation such as permanently setting the stain.
