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Removing candle wax from different surfaces can be done using a few simple techniques. For fabric, place a paper towel over the wax and iron on a low heat setting, transferring the wax onto the paper towel. To remove wax from hard surfaces like glass or countertops, freeze the wax with an ice pack or ice cubes in a plastic bag, then scrape it off with a plastic scraper. For carpet, use a hairdryer to melt the wax, then blot it with a paper towel. On wood, gently scrape off the hardened wax with a plastic card, then use a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
Spills of candle wax are quite common. Whether it’s forgetting about the lit candles on the dining table or the dog knocking over a citronella candle on the patio, you can effectively remove the waxy mess using heat, cold, and a gentle scraping tool, regardless of whether the candle contains paraffin, soy wax, or a combination of different substances.
Rescuing Fabric
To eliminate wax from fabric surfaces such as tablecloths or clothing, combine the power of cold and heat. Allow the wax to harden, then move the affected fabric back and forth to break the wax into smaller pieces. Remove as much wax as you can.
If any residue remains, place the item in the freezer or put a zippered bag filled with ice on top of the spot until the wax becomes brittle. Remove the wax by picking it off or gently moving the fabric to snap off the remaining wax. Any leftover bits can be removed by rubbing the bowl of a plastic spoon against the wax.
Cleaning Wood
When candle wax drips onto a dining table, wooden floor, or deck chair, start the cleanup process by scraping off as much hard wax as possible without causing damage to the furniture.
Use a plastic paint scraper or the bowl of a plastic spoon to loosen the wax, and then wipe away the wax bits into a trash bag. For furniture with a varnish finish or another type of sealant, apply a cream-based furniture wax to remove any residue. For unfinished wood, place a folded sheet of brown craft paper over the wax and iron the spot on low heat until the paper absorbs the wax. Continue ironing with a fresh piece of paper until all the wax is removed.
Smooth Surfaces
When dealing with heat-resistant nonporous surfaces like countertops, sinks, and tile floors, start by picking off as much wax as possible using your fingernail or the bowl of a plastic spoon. Dispose of the wax pieces to avoid creating a new mess. Then, set a hairdryer to medium or high and aim it at the spot. As the wax melts, use paper towels to dab it up, making sure to use a fresh area with each dab to prevent reapplying the wax.
This method is also effective for vertical surfaces such as windows, mirrors, and painted walls. To remove any remaining residue, spray a mixture of one part white vinegar and three parts water. However, be sure to test the vinegar solution on painted surfaces before spraying to ensure it does not affect the paint.
Carpet Care
Cold and heat can be used to remove wax from rugs and carpets. Place a zippered plastic bag filled with ice over the affected area to make the wax brittle. Once the wax has hardened, remove the bag and scrape the area using the edge of a plastic knife. To prevent spreading the wax, vacuum it up as it comes off the carpet.
Take a lint-free white rag and run it under hot tap water, then wring out as much excess water as possible before placing it on top of the carpet stain. Avoid using a dyed cloth as the color may transfer to the carpet. Set the iron to medium heat and press it on the towel, holding it over the spot for 30 seconds at a time. If needed, dampen the cloth again, folding it so that the waxy stain is on the inside, away from both the carpet and the iron.
If you have eliminated all the wax and there is still an area with oil, utilize a specialized carpet stain remover for grease stains to dissolve the mark.
