Candle Wax Cleaning Tips

Helpful Candle Wax Cleaning Tips

Removing Wax from Hardwood Floors and Wood Furniture

To best remove wax from wood surfaces, harden the wax as quickly as possible. Hold a bag of ice cubes against the wax to freeze it. Then using an "old" plastic credit card gently scrape the wax off. Metal objects may gouge the surface. Wax remover or Mineral Spirits may be used to remove any remaining wax residue, and then wash normally. The wood may need to be buffed and polished to restore the appearance.

Removing Wax from Linoleum or Vinyl Flooring

Making candles at home often happens in the Kitchen. The best way to prevent difficult clean up is to cover the floor with cardboard or an old carpet. If wax does spill onto the flooring, let it dry and scrape up as much as possible, using a soft piece of wood or old credit card. Sweep or vacuum up the scrapings and wipe the spot with candle wax remover.

Removing Wax from Tile and Grout

As candles are often used in a bathroom, accidents can happen. If wax drips onto tile, let it cool and scrape off with a soft piece of wood or old credit card. Remove the residue with candle wax remover. Rinse with clean water. Use this procedure with grout as well.

Removing Wax from Carpet and Upholstery

Let wax cool completely. Use a dull knife to scrape as much of the wax off the piece. Place a paper towel or napkin over the remaining wax. Place a paper bag over the towel. Place a medium warm iron on top of the bag and move it back and forth. Do not leave in one place for any length of time. The wax will melt and be absorbed into the paper towel, change paper towels frequently. A small amount of candle wax remover works very well to remove any traces of color left behind. Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid or anything that may damage the carpet and upholstery. Always spot check cleaning products in an inconspicuous location. Finally mix a few drops of mild detergent with a cup of warm water and blot the area.

Removing Wax from Table Linens

Let it dry completely and scrape up as much as possible using a soft piece of wood or old credit card. Place absorbent material (as above) under and on top of the wax spill after scraping. Heat gently to avoid scorching and replace the paper towel often. A dry cleaning solvent maybe needed if the item is fragile