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 has created 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 and holders 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 hopefully soon, new job opportunities.
♻️ Wax Drop-Off Guidelines
Please bring only clean candle wax scraps.
We can’t recycle wax that’s mixed with debris, plastic, or other contaminants.
Metal tabs and wicks are perfectly fine to leave in.
We now accept wax in holders, but if possible, please help us sort your wax
before dropping it off by following these simple steps:
If you’re bringing more than 10 lbs of wax:
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Sort your wax by type before packing:
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Scented / Unscented
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Pillar (hard, usually paraffin) / Soft wax
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Colored / Uncolored
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Place each type in a separate bag.
Your sorting helps us recycle more efficiently — thank you for keeping the loop going! 💚
How to Remove Wax from Holders
Glass Holders
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Place in the freezer for about an hour.
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Once hardened, gently chip out the wax with a plastic scraper (avoid metal tools).
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Wash with warm water and mild soap to remove any leftover residue.
Metal Holders
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Use a hairdryer or dip in hot water for 30 seconds to soften the wax.
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Wipe clean with a soft cloth or paper towel.
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For stubborn spots, use a little mineral oil or rubbing alcohol.
Wood Holders
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Freeze first to harden the wax.
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Carefully pry off wax with a plastic tool.
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Wipe any residue with a soft cloth and a bit of mineral solvent.
(Test on a small area first.)
Ceramic or Porcelain Holders
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Freeze to release the wax, then gently scrape it off.
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You can also use warm water, but avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent cracks.
Tip: If you can’t reuse your cleaned jars, consider donating them to a local thrift store.
Thank you for supporting wax and jar recycling — together we keep the loop going!
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
Santa Barbara, CA, USA
805 680 98 62
