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3 Foolproof Ways to Get Wax Out of Clothes

Candles are a great add-on for many occasions.
Foto: Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash - Autumn Hassett)

Candles are an essential part of birthdays and dinner parties. Here’s how to get wax out of clothes if you have an unfortunate run-in with a hot candle.

Luckily, you can remove stains from wax candles without rushing to the laundromat or relying on chemical stain remover. Knowing how to get wax out of clothes can be an incredibly helpful life skill. Follow these steps to get it out without a trace.

Removing Small Wax Stains

Learn how to get candle wax stains out of clothes using vegetable oil.
Learn how to get candle wax stains out of clothes using vegetable oil. (Foto: CC0 / Pixabay / geralt)

Some spills may be small and discrete, but you still need to remove small wax stains before they permanently ruin your clothing.

How to Get Wax Out of Clothes Using the Vegetable Oil Method

Use this method to get wax out of clothes when the spot is small, and work quickly. Putting oil directly on clothing might seem counterintuitive, but it works!

How to Get Wax Out of Clothes Using the Vegetable Oil Method:

  1. Grab any vegetable oil from your cupboard and rub a good amount onto the stain.
  2. Gently wipe away any excess oil with a cloth.
  3. Launder the clothing as usual.

The Freezer and Hot Water Method

To get wax out of clothing all you need is hot water and a freezer.
To get wax out of clothing all you need is hot water and a freezer. (Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash - Joe Pregadio)

This way to get candle wax out of clothing is a great option if you have a bit more patience and some room in your freezer.

How to Get Wax Out of Clothes Using a Freezer and Hot Water:

  1. Place the soiled item in the freezer as soon as possible.
  2. When the wax hardens completely, remove it from the freezer and snap off much wax as you can.
  3. Stretch the soiled area of fabric, with any remaining wax stains, over a bowl — it doesn’t have to be tight — and secure it with a rubber band.
  4. Pour boiling water over the stain. This will melt any excess wax and wash it into the bowl along with the hot water.
  5. Launder the clothing as usual.

How to Get Wax Out of Clothes If the Stain is Bigger

Irons have more uses than you'd think.
Irons have more uses than you’d think. (Foto: CC0 / Pixabay / stevepb)

Some candle wax stains are a bit larger and require more time and attention to remove. Follow these three steps to return your garment to its original state.

How to Remove Large Wax Wax Stains from Clothing:

  1. Hands off: The first thing you have to do with candle wax stains is to leave them alone and do nothing. Let the wax dry completely before touching it; otherwise, you could spread the stain or burn yourself.
  2. Scrape it off: When the wax has dried completely, scrape as much as possible with a blunt knife. We recommend using a spoon for more delicate fabrics like silk.
  3. Melt it again: This step may seem contradictory, but trust us and try it. First, grab two paper bags (you can also use paper towels can also be used, but non-recyclable items should be a last resort). Place the paper bags beneath the stain and cover it with a thin towel. Iron gently over the area using a low setting on the iron. When the max melts, it will be absorbed by the paper. Keep going until you see no more wax getting absorbed. Finally, launder the piece of clothing as usual.

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