How to Remove Candle Wax

Dripped candle wax is a pesky problem. It hardens and sets into carpets, tables, tablecloths and dishes. Colored candle wax stains carpets and tablecloths. Removing candle wax from carpets, tables, tablecloths and dishes is possible with time and effort.

Removing candle wax from carpeting (or upholstery) can be accomplished by first making the wax very brittle with cold. Place some ice cubes in a plastic baggie and put them over the candle wax area. After the candle wax has gotten cold and brittle it can be scraped off with a butter knife or other tool that is not overly sharpened. If more candle wax remains after trying the ice/scrape tip, try using a hair dryer set on high to heat the wax and scrape more.

An iron can also be used to remove candle wax from carpet. Put paper towels over the area of candle wax and iron the paper towels. Replace the paper towels with new ones until the wax is gone. If the candle wax is colored (red, especially) skip to the next step of solvent or mineral spirits and do not use heat. The heat will set the color into the carpet.

If all else fails to remove candle wax from carpeting, try a dry-cleaning solvent, which is available at hardware stores. Always test a bit of the carpet that is hidden to make sure that the solvent does not damage the carpet.

Removing candle wax from wood tables is an easier job. If possible, wipe the wax off while it is still warm. If that window of opportunity was missed, try softening the wax with a hair dryer and then wipe it away with a cloth.

Removing candle wax from tablecloths is possible, though it may seem impossible! Freeze the table cloth first for an hour or so. If the tablecloth is washable use rubbing alcohol and water (1 part alcohol, 2 parts water) to soak the area of the tablecloth with candle wax. Soak for a half hour or so. Wash the tablecloth in the washing machine. (Simply send dry-clean only tablecloths to the dry cleaners and they will deal with the candle wax.)

Removing colored candle wax from tablecloths is more difficult, but still possible. Instead of using the water and alcohol solution after freezing and scraping, try mineral spirits. Always test a hidden area first to make sure that the mineral spirits do not damage the table cloth. Treat the tablecloth with bleach and wash in the washing machine as usual.

Removing candle wax from dishes and glass is as easy as removing candle wax from wood tables. Simply heat the wax with a hair dryer and wipe it away. Sometimes used fabric softener sheets are perfect for the job of removing candle wax from dishes and glass.

Do not count candle wax stained items as lost before trying the above tips. Removing candle wax from items is possible and only takes a little work to do.