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How To Turn Your Old Candle Into a New Planter

candle 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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