11 Fun and Functional Ways to Reuse Candle Jars
Read this before you toss those empty candle jars!
Rather than tossing your empty candle jars in the recycling bin, reuse them in one of these creative—and fully functional—ways. Believe it or not, the glass containers are actually incredibly versatile. They can easily be used to store small craft supplies, transformed into vases to show off your favorite blooms, or reimagined into pretty tea lights.
Curious about more fun upcycling projects? Consider repurposing candle jars to make your own terrarium or pour new candles with a custom scent created specifically for your home. Just make sure all traces of wax, wicks, and scents have been removed and there are no cracks in the glass.
Whether you have a large-capacity glass jar or a small vessel featuring a beautiful embossed pattern, here are 11 of our favorite ways to repurpose candle jars.
Make a Terrarium
Get creative and turn a large candle jar into an eye-catching terrarium. All you need are pebbles, charcoal, soil, plants, and moss, and you have your very own self-sustaining ecosystem. Lids are optional—some plants thrive in a closed microclimate while others benefit from air circulation. (PS. Did you know edible terrariums are a thing?)
Pour Your Own Candles
Reuse old candle jars to pour your own candles. Choose your wax, select a wick type, and pick a fragrance pairing if you want to scent your candles. Not only is this a fun craft project, it's an excellent way to repurpose empty jars and create a custom fragrance for your home.
Corral Pens and Pencils
Declutter your desk and corral pens, pencils, markers, and paintbrushes in candle jars. Make sure the empty jars are tall enough to hold the writing utensils so they don't topple over and make a big mess.
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Collect Loose Change
Use an old candle jar as the designated spot to collect loose change. Either use one jar for all coins, or have multiple jars and sort coins by type or household member. If you're using multiple jars, add cute labels to avoid confusion and keep the coin collections organized.
Display Flowers
Transform old mason jars that once held candles into casual flower vases. The tall clear glass containers are ideal for holding small bouquets of flowers and add a rustic touch to any table, windowsill, or desk. Use one jar or assemble a grouping for a festive centerpiece.
Store Pantry Staples
Lidded candle jars are ideal for storing small pantry staples such as teabags, various types of loose or packaged sugar, and wrapped candies. Before you turn them into storage containers, wash the jars and lids thoroughly to remove any traces of wax, wicks, and scents.
RELATED: Transform Your Pantry Fast With These 40 Genius Clutter-Proof Ideas
Create Craft Supply Storage
Store small craft supplies such as beads, buttons, and sequins in empty candle jars. Add a decorative touch with ribbon, burlap, or lace, turning the storage vessels into a visually appealing craft room display.
Propagate Plants
Fill an empty candle jar with water and place a plant cutting in it to propagate the plant. Place it in an area that receives natural light and top up the water or replace it as need it. The cutting will grow roots in the water after which it can be planted in soil.
RELATED: How a Gardening Expert Turns One Plant Into Dozens—for Free
Package Homemade Gifts
Package homemade gifts such as holiday cookies in candle jars. Add a decorative touch with festive ribbon tied around the rim, a personalized gift tag, and some fabric over the lid. The clear glass construction keeps homemade goodies visible and is versatile enough to work for any seasonal gifting occasion.
Elevate Bathroom Storage
Decant everyday essentials, like cotton swabs and cotton balls, into candle jars that have a pretty design. It's a simple way to eliminate bulky (and not-so-visually-appealing) packaging, plus it keeps frequently used items accessible and turns practical storage into a stylish bathroom accent.
RELATED: 15 Small Bathroom Storage Ideas That Actually Create More Space
Set the Mood with Tea Lights
If you have an old candle jar that's particularly beautiful, remove leftover wax and place a tea light inside. It creates a soft, ambient glow and allows you to reuse the candle jar—or a collection of them—over and over again.
Maria Sabella is a lifestyle writer with a passion for home and interiors — from paint colors and holiday decor to the latest design trends. Her work has appeared in outlets including Better Homes & Gardens, The Spruce, BuzzFeed and Bustle.
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