How to Get Rid of Wax on Glass

An accidental spill can cause candle wax stains on glass.

No matter how careful you are, candle wax often sputters or spills onto glass. These unsightly stains take away from the appearance of the glass and act as a stain-magnet. Since glass scratches easily, remove the wax stains with care. Use simple supplies from home and careful techniques to tackle the wax stains and the oily residue they leave behind.

Things You'll Need

• Hairdryer
• Paper towels
• White vinegar
• Clean cloths

Instructions

1. Turn your hairdryer on and adjust it to the lowest heat setting. Hold it about 12 inches away from the surface of the glass and heat the wax until it melts.

2. Wipe the melted wax off with paper towels. If any wax substance remains, melt it with the hairdryer and continue to wipe it up until it's gone.

3. Wet a clean cloth with undiluted white vinegar. Buff the glass surface at the site of the wax stain. The vinegar removes the greasy residue left by the wax stain.

4. Dry your glass surface with a clean, dry cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Spray a light coating of non-stick baking spray over your glass candleholders so burned down candles pop right out without sticking to the glass.

• Freeze the wax stain with a bag of ice cubes then gently scrape the frozen wax off with the dull side of a table knife.

• Rub an old, used dryer sheet against the site of the wax stain on your glass surface to remove waxy residue and add shine.

References

• Beeswax Candle Company: Wax Removal Tips: Wood Surfaces and Floors
• Reader's Digest: 150 Household Uses for Vinegar: Remove Candle Wax