How to clean up after candle making

Yes clean up after candle making is important and we know it.


We seem to end up with a ton of items absolutely covered with wax. It gets everywhere! Often we melt everything down and try and remove the majority of it with a paper towel but there is always quite a bit still around. Hot water does dissolve it but also clogs the drain.  It is really hard to clean out a drain that’s been blocked with wax as well. We also use different colors and it’s surprising how such a small amount of colored wax can contaminate the color of the next batch. So how to clean exactly? 


Here are some video explainers for you to get started in addition to our tips below.

Tips to clean up after candle making:

  • Use a silicon baking matt as an operating surface: This will help to clean up faster after the process. Easily by using a heat gun and some wipes, you can remove the leftover wax squeaky clean. Check out here on amazon.
  • Use wiping tissue : When the wax is hot, if you need to remove from any surface or jar, use tissue to wipe.
  • Use Heat Gun: heat and wipe!
  • Heat and Melt: After the session dump all the tools in one pitcher and heat it till the wax melts, then drop all the wax in a mold/ one time cup to harden and dispose. And wipe the tools with tissue.
  • Use Hot water Rinse: (Least suggested) Rinse all utensils used with hot water to allow the leftover wax to wash away. Avoid using this technique with a larger amount of wax. as that will likely clog your drain pipe if drained that way. Do not drain the water mixed with wax down the sink.
  • Use a towel to avoid clogging drain: You can also drain the hot water through a towel to avoid passing any wax in the drain.
  • Unclog your drain: You can rinse the drain with boiling water to try to clear any clogs due to wax. Nothing is guaranteed. 
  • Use rubbing alcohol/ baby wipes for finishing, while the tools are still warm.
  • Do not try to be a perfectionist: As long as the remaining wax, color or fragrance is not compromising the quality of your product, its not a harm. So don’t stress out.