How to use old candles

Having candles at home is always a good idea. Not only to set our home and create a relaxing atmosphere after a hard day's work, but also for a very practical reason, to illuminate the rooms in case the electricity goes out.

However, candles can accumulate around cabinets at times. It's time to get rid of them or recycle them to give them a second life. Indeed, you have read correctly. In just a few steps you can create new candles based on the remains of old candles. With them you can decorate your house as well as illuminate it when the power goes out. Let's see, then, the materials and the steps to make them. Let's start!

Materials to use old candles

If you like crafts, you will surely have several of the materials that you will need to take advantage of the old vejas that you have at home and create fantastic new ones with which to aromatize your home. Take a pencil and paper to write down the materials you will need:

• Remains of old candles that you have at home
• A saucepan to heat water
• a cotton cord
• Colored wax if you want to change the tone of the candles or dyes
• Essential oils with aromas (lavender, lemon, jasmine, coconut, etc.)
• Containers to store new candles

Instructions to take advantage of old candles

The steps to create new candles using the remains of the old ones that you have stored at home are very simple. With a little patience and skill you will be able to make some great candles. Let's see, below, the instructions to learn how to take advantage of old vejas.

• First, use a knife to break old candles into pieces to make it easier and faster to melt them.
• Remember to remove the bits that are burned or have stains because this will prevent the resulting candle from looking dirty.
• Once you have cut the candles into small fragments, place them in a saucepan to melt them in a bain-marie over a low heat, making sure that they do not burn.
• Then add the dye of the color that you like as well as the essential oil with the aroma of your liking. Stir the mixture slowly so that no bubbles appear.
• The next step will be to pour the wax into a container such as a glass or a jar without exceeding the edge.
• Next, let the wax rest and when its texture solidifies, it is time to carefully insert the wick into the wax. Remember that the wick has to stand by itself in a vertical position.
• And it would be ready! As you can see, it is very easy to recycle your old candles and give them a second life. Now you just have to put it into practice.

How to choose the color of your new candles when taking advantage of old candles?

In oriental culture, colors are thought to contribute to renewing the balance of harmony and our energies. The therapeutic technique that studies it is chromotherapy and with it they try to alleviate ailments such as stress, insomnia or lack of concentration, among many others.

It is for this reason that when it comes to taking advantage of old candles it is essential that you choose a color based on the benefits you are after. In this sense, let's see the properties of each shade below to find out what they can contribute to your body:

• Pink: Ideal for those seeking relaxation.
• White: Represents balance, harmony and purity.
• Orange: Symbolizes energy and good humor.
• Blue: Helps to achieve peace and reduce fatigue.
• Red: Represents passion, energy and vitality.
• Yellow: Perfect for achieving concentration.
• Green: Symbolizes the tranquility and harmony of nature.

How to choose the essence of your old candles?

To give a new smell to your new candles made from the remains of your old candles, you will need to choose some essences. If you have not yet decided, below you will find a small list with aromas that promise to turn your home into a very relaxing and pleasant place. Which is your favorite?

• Lavender: Eliminates anxiety and stress as it creates a relaxing atmosphere.
• Eucalyptus: It has refreshing properties and even facilitates concentration.
• Mint or lemon: They are two essences that give energy and bring freshness to the room.
• Geranium: Balances emotions and calms the mind.
• Coconut: Brings a sweet touch to the environment and reduces negativity.
• Rosa: fights headache, sadness and insomnia.
• Romero: Purifies the environment.
• Cinnamon: Promotes creativity.
• Sandalwood, chamomile or neroli: A perfect essence to help fall asleep.
• Tangerine or vanilla: For an optimistic and calm mood.
• Jasmine: A relaxing aroma to end bad odors.
• Thyme: Activates memory.
• Cedar: Facilitates relaxation against stress.
• Orange: Provides an energizing touch to the environment.

How to make an old candle last longer?

Below we show you a brief list of 7 small tricks to extend the life of your old candles.

• Place the candles in the freezer in a bag. With this simple trick you will be able to reduce the speed at which the candle wax melts.
• Soak the candles in salt water for several hours before lighting them.
• Sprinkle a little salt around the wick of your candles.
• Line the candle with aluminum foil to prevent it from sinking in the center.
• Apply a few coats of clear nail polish to the candle before lighting the flame with a lighter.
• Clean the candles regularly, either with water and neutral soap in a basin or with a damp cloth. The technique you use will depend on the degree of dirt on the candle.
• By avoiding the tunnel effect you will ensure that the candle wax melts evenly and its useful life is extended for longer. Every time you light your candle try not to blow it out until the top layer has melted.