How To Turn Your Old Candle Into a New Planter

Photo: Stocksy/Leah Flores
If you toss your candles into the recycling bin once you hit the bottom, you're missing out. After a one-step cleaning process that gets rid of the extra wax, you can repurpose them into bathroom containers for essentials like q-tips, pencil holders, and even mugs if you have something ceramic. You can also turn an empty candle into a planter—something you'll always need more of.

In a video that's garnered more than 2.1 million views, TikTok user Ashlie of @ash_o_lie shares exactly how to clean out any used-up candle and turn it into a planter. The process is simple: To remove the wax at the bottom, she says you can simply pop the candle in the freezer, which allows the wax to fully harden. After a few hours, turn it upside down and gently tap it, and the wax will fall right out. (Keep that the excess wax and use it in a fragrance warmer.) If you want, you can finish by giving it a quick scrub with soap and water.

@ash_o_lieReuse and be happy! #planthacks #planttiktok #houseplants #candle #reuse #macrame #pots #planttips #plantlover #plantlife #plantcare #fyp #viral #yee♬ original sound - Ashlie


Ashlie says three-wick candles are the perfect size for four-inch plant pots, while smaller options are great for things like succulents. You don't need to worry about a drainage hole, either. Instead of planting directly into the candle container, keep it in the plastic grow pot—a method that's recommended by pros with any decorative pot you use. Even the lids can be repurposed; they make really pretty plant saucers.


Experts In This Article

You probably already have a ton of candles you can clean out and repurpose at home. But the next time you buy one, these options give you a great-smelling candle and a pretty planter with every purchase.

The prettiest candle containers to turn into planters

1. Paddywax Wild Fig & Vetiver Form Candle, $20

candle planter
Photo: Paddywax

I mean, just look at this candle. It was meant to be a planter.

Shop now: Paddywax Wild Fig & Vetiver Form Candle, $20

2. Castoe Pots Dried Florals and Incense Candle, $20

candle planter
Photo: Castoe Pots

This speckled ceramic candle is the perfect size for succulents.

Shop now: Castoe Pots Dried Florals and Incense Candle, $20

3. Blue Glass Candle Co. Extra-Large Coconut Apricot Candle, $98

candle planter
Photo: Blue Glass Candle Co.

If you're looking for a taller option, this one won't disappoint.

Shop now: Blue Glass Candle Co. Extra-Large Coconut Apricot Candle, $98

4. Forvr Mood Cuffing Season Candle, $38

candle planter
Photo: Forvr Mood

This candle smells so good you'll wish you had one for every room.

Shop now: Forvr Mood Cuffing Season Candle, $38

5. Illume Dylan Ceramic Candle, $16

candle planter
Photo: Illume

You can't beat a nude-colored option that will look great in every home.

Shop now: Illume Dylan Ceramic Candle, $16

6. Urban Outfitters Samira Collection Glass Candle, $24

candle planter
Photo: Urban Outfitters

This glass candle will look even prettier with your favorite plant in it.

Shop now: Urban Outfitters Samira Collection Glass Candle, $24

7. Hive & Wick Market Ceramic Candle, $26

candle planter
Photo: Hive & Wick Market

This unique textured ceramic candle vessel is a fun way to switch things up.

Shop now: Hive & Wick Market Ceramic Candle, $26

The best low-light options for your new candle planter:

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