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Candle Wax Surface Remover

Remove dripped candle wax from tables, counters, and hard surfaces safely

20 min beginner Yields 1 treatment

Ingredients

  • 4-6 cubes Ice cubes
  • 2 tablespoons White vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Warm water

Steps

  1. Place 4-6 ice cubes in a plastic bag and hold directly on the wax for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Scrape the hardened wax with a plastic scraper or credit card edge, working from edges inward.
  3. If pieces resist, re-freeze with more ice and scrape again.
  4. Mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with 1/4 cup of warm water.
  5. Rub the remaining residue with a cloth dampened in the vinegar solution.
  6. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
  7. For wood surfaces, follow up with a small amount of olive oil to restore the finish.

Why It Works

Freezing makes wax contract and become brittle, breaking its bond with the surface. Vinegar dissolves the oily paraffin or soy-based residue left behind.

Tips

  • For wax on fabric, place a paper bag over the wax and iron on low heat. The wax transfers to the paper.
  • Use a plastic scraper on finished wood. Metal tools can gouge soft surfaces.

More Entertaining & Guests recipes

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