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The WaxLoop Project
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Waxing the way to a more circular future
Every year, tons of candle wax waste end up in landfills.
Candle wax — whether paraffin, beeswax, or plant-based waxes like soy, coconut, and palm — is currently not recycled, or only on a very limited scale. Yet, it is a reusable material that can be reprocessed into new useful forms.
WaxLoop, through its first pilot, aims to create the first local wax recycling center in South Santa Barbara County, where residents and businesses can recycle used candle wax instead of throwing it away. Creating a wax recycling facility that purifies used wax and transforms it into new, sustainably sourced products is an effective way to generate high-value goods with a minimal environmental footprint.
By partnering with local businesses where candle wax can be collected, this initiative supports our city’s sustainability goals by diverting waste from landfills, raising some more environmental awareness, and creating new eco-responsible products and job opportunities.
What can I recycle and how?
Please bring only clean candle wax scraps. We can’t recycle wax mixed
with debris, plastic, or other contaminants. Metal tabs, wicks are fine.
Please, help us in the sorting process by following these simple steps:
1. If you plan to recycle more than five pounds of wax, please
help us by sorting out first your wax per type:
- scented / unscented
- pillar (hard, usually paraffin) / soft wax
- uncolored / colored
And place each type in different bags.
2. Scoop out wax scraps out of your jars:
For glass candle holders: freezing is often the simplest approach.
Place the holder in the freezer for at least an hour to harden the wax, which will then contract and become brittle. This makes it easier to chip away the wax using a plastic scraper. Avoid metal tools to prevent
scratching. After removing the bulk, warm water and mild soap can clean residual traces.
For metal candle holders: heat is usually the best method. Heat softens the wax, allowing it to be wiped away easily. Use a hairdryer or place the holder in boiling water for just 30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat. After softening
the wax, use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe the residue.
For stubborn spots, a small amount of mineral oil or rubbing alcohol can help dissolve remaining wax.
For wooden candle holders: this requires some more precaution because heat and moisture can damage the surface.
Start by chilling the holder to harden the wax, then gently pry off the wax pieces with a plastic scraper. If any wax
remains, a soft cloth lightly dampened with mineral solvent can help remove it without damaging the wood.
Always test any solvent on an inconspicuous area first.
For ceramic and porcelain holders: freezing works best to break the wax free, followed by gentle scraping.
Hot water can also be used to loosen wax, but avoid sudden temperature changes that might make cracks.
If you can't reuse the cleaned jars, consider donating them to thrift stores!
Thank you for your support in recycling candle wax and jars at the same time!!
If you’d like to support our effort in any way or have ideas for expanding the project, let’s get in touch — we’d love to collaborate.
Connect with Us
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Santa Barbara, CA, USA
805 680 98 62
