DIY // Recycled Candle Containers

As you're probably already aware, I buy a lotta candles.  However, I don't think I'm the only member in the Bath & Body Works fanclub.  Today's post is to help all of you candle nuts further justify your copious aromatic purchases.

Rather than throw away all your empty spicy, wintery candles while you do your spring cleaning, convert them into containers!  It's so easy, you'll wonder why you haven't done it yet.

The first step is to throw that sucker in the freezer.  Yes, the freezer.  You're going to have to get that useless bit of leftover candle out somehow and freezing it makes it way easier, trust me.

After it's been in the freezer for about a day, take a knife (you don't need sharp one), and gently wedge it in between the leftover candle and the container.  The candle should lift from the container easily; if it doesn't, continue wedging the knife in gently all the way around.  

Once you've got the leftovers out, peel off the side sticker first and leave the bottom one till after you've washed it.  It should come off no problem, if it doesn't, run it under warm water for a second.

Next, wash the container inside and out with a good kitchen scrubby (that's what they're called, right?) and a simple dish soap.  Make sure you get all the thin, waxy bits out and don't forget to wash the bottom of the inside.

Now for that pesky bottom sticker.  Once the container has been under warm water, the sticker on the bottom will come off slightly easier than it would have when dry.  I just use a good nail and work it off, making sure I get all of that tacky under-sticker stuff.  If it's not working for you or if you don't have long nails, soak a cotton ball in white vinegar and rub it on the bottom.  The tacky bits should come right off.

And you're done!  See, I told you it was easy.  I love the way these look by themselves but if you're not one for simplicity, take a ribbon and wrap it around.  Or, if you're super crafty, dip the container in some glitter and bedazzle it, the world is your oyster.  I use mine for just about anything that will fit in them such as makeup brushes, lip glosses, Q-Tips, cotton balls, etc.

Let me know if you try this at home and send me links to your blogs and pictures!