1. USE A HAIR DRYER
Apply heat to the sticker using a hair dryer. The warmth softens the adhesive, making it easier to peel off the jar.
2. CHILL IN FREEZER
Place the jar in the freezer for a while. The cold temperature can reduce the stickiness of certain adhesives, allowing the sticker to release more easily.
3. WARM WATER SOAK
Soak the label in warm water to loosen it. Gently scrape off as much as you can, then use cooking oil or rubbing alcohol to tackle any remaining residue.
Sustainable Practices for
Reusing & Recycling Glass Candle Jars

If you’re like many candle lovers, you can’t resist the allure of the candle aisle—those enchanting scents and beautifully designed containers draw you in. But have you ever noticed the drawbacks of traditional candle wax? Tunneling, black soot, and unsightly residue can leave your candle jars looking less than appealing after just a few uses.
Plus, our old elegant candle jars are designed for a second life! Once your candle is finished, simply refresh your old jar with our sand wax refills, allowing you to transform it into a stylish decorative piece. With Akari, you’re not just purchasing a candle; you’re embracing a sustainable lifestyle that combines luxury and responsibility.
Reducing Waste, One Candle at a Time
In New Zealand, approximately 300,000 tonnes of glass waste ends up in landfills each year, a significant portion of which includes used candle jars and other recyclable containers. With many households accumulating these jars, there’s a tremendous opportunity to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
By choosing our sand wax candles, you’re not only enhancing your home by creating a luxurious environment tailored to your designs and preferences, but you’re also contributing to a cleaner, greener planet. Together, we can make a difference—one candle at a time. Embrace a sustainable lifestyle and help combat glass waste in New Zealand and beyond, creating a ripple effect that benefits our environment for generations to come.
We understand the hassle of cleaning out old candle jars...
Reusing glass candle jars can be a bit of a challenge, especially when it comes to dealing with traditional candle wax. Many of us know the struggle of trying to scrape out stubborn wax residue—it's often a tedious and time-consuming task. But at Akari, we understand this frustration and offer simpler solutions for repurposing those jars without the hassle.
In the following sections, we’ll share easy and practical tips for cleaning and repurposing your candle jars.
Top 2 Methods for Cleaning Your Old Candle Jars
1. The Melting Wax Method
1. Add Hot Water
Pour hot water into the candle jar, filling it to the top.
2. Watch the Wax Melt
Observe as the heat causes the wax at the bottom to melt and rise to the surface of the water.
3. Release the Wax
Once the wax has cooled and solidified, gently press down on it to release it from the jar in one piece.
4. Prepare for Disposal
Place paper towels over the sink drain before pouring the water down. If any wax remains at the bottom, repeat the process until all the wax has floated to the surface
5. Final Clean Up
Wipe the jar with paper towels to remove any lingering wax residue, then wash it with soap and water.
Note: This method is effective, but if you have a thick layer of wax, you may need to repeat the hot water process several times. In such cases, consider trying Method 2 for a more efficient solution.

2. The Steam Bath Method

-
Prepare Your Setup
Fill a bowl with hot water that’s larger than your candle jar. -
Immerse the Jar
Submerge the candle jar into the hot water, allowing it to warm up. -
Check for Melting
Observe the edges of the wax; when they turn clear, the wax has melted and should easily release from the jar. -
Extract the Wax
Use a chopstick or a similar pointed tool to carefully pierce the wax and lift it out of the jar. -
Clean Up
Wipe the jar with paper towels to remove any leftover wax, then wash it thoroughly with soap and water.
Note: This method is effective for removing wax, but if you encounter any stubborn residue, you can repeat the process as needed.
Helpful Tips for Removing Stickers from Candle Jars
-
USE A HAIR DRYER
Apply heat to the sticker using a hair dryer. The warmth softens the adhesive, making it easier to peel off the jar. -
CHILL IN FREEZER
-
Place the jar in the freezer for a while. The cold temperature can reduce the stickiness of certain adhesives, allowing the sticker to release more easily.
-
WARM WATER SOAK
Soak the label in warm water to loosen it. Gently scrape off as much as you can, then use cooking oil or rubbing alcohol to tackle any remaining residue.