Candles
What Should I Do With It?
Candle containers made from glass or metal are highly recyclable, provided they are thoroughly cleaned first. To prepare them for your recycling bin, use a spoon to scoop out the remaining wax, or try freezing the container to pop the hardened wax out, and always remove the metal wick base. However, you must never pour hot liquid wax down your sink or toilet drains, as it cools instantly in the pipes, solidifies, and creates severe plumbing blockages. While standard paraffin wax itself is not curbside recyclable, choosing unscented candles made from natural soy or beeswax is a much healthier alternative that prevents toxic chemicals like benzene from being released into your home.
Before throwing this away, see if it can be fixed up, given to a friend, or donated to a local thrift shop. Keeping items in use is the best way to stop waste before it starts!
The recycling guidelines shown here are for general reference and educational purposes. Every city and town has different rules, sorting equipment, and recycling programs.
Please check your local town website or ask your local garbage collection program to make sure you are following your neighborhood's rules.