The average candle burns for 30–50 hours. But the jar it comes in? That can stick around for centuries in a landfill.
That’s why refillable candle systems are changing the game. They don’t just look good on your shelf—they help reduce single-use waste, lower your carbon footprint, and save money in the long run.
Here’s how candle refills make sustainability simple (and economical).
Why Traditional Candles Create So Much Waste
Most candles are designed for one-time use. You burn the wax, toss the jar, and repeat. And while glass and ceramic are technically recyclable, many end up in landfills due to leftover wax, labels, or breakage.
Each new candle usually means:
- A freshly produced container (often glass or ceramic)
- Protective packaging and shipping materials
- Energy spent on manufacturing and transporting
- More waste generated when the candle burns out
Multiply that by every candle lover out there, and the environmental cost adds up fast.
What a Refillable Candle System Looks Like
Instead of rebuying the full candle each time, a refillable system lets you keep the vessel and simply swap in a fresh wax refill when the candle burns down.
At ReCandle Co., our system includes:
- A hand-thrown ceramic candle vessel—heat-safe, durable, and built to last
- A soy wax refill—made with clean fragrance oils and cotton wicks
- 100% recyclable packaging
- Optional delivery through our candle subscription box
The result? Less waste, lower cost, and a candle experience that feels both high-end and low-impact.
How Candle Refills Cut Waste, One Burn at a Time
Here’s what changes when you make the switch:
You reuse your vessel
Instead of tossing a jar every time the candle finishes, you keep using the same one. Our ceramic candle vessel is built to withstand heat up to 2,000ºF—no cracking or melting here.
You reduce packaging
With each refill, you skip the bulk of outer boxes, inserts, and padding. Our zero waste refills come in streamlined, recyclable packaging that minimizes excess.
You lower the demand for new materials
Fewer jars produced means fewer raw materials mined, transported, and processed.
You avoid landfill buildup
Most people don’t recycle candle jars, either because they’re hard to clean or just don’t bother. Candle refills keep that waste out of the system entirely.
Why It Also Saves You Money
Let’s break down the cost side:
- A typical high-quality candle might cost $30–40.
- A ReCandle Co. wax refill ? $18.
Once you have the vessel, you’re paying nearly half for each new candle. That adds up fast—especially if you burn candles often or gift them regularly.
And if you join our candle subscription , shipping is free. You choose your scent and delivery schedule, and we’ll handle the rest.
Bonus Benefits of Switching to Refills
Sure, the waste and savings are great. But refillable candles come with a few extra perks:
- You can mix it up — Keep the same vessel, swap the scent. Try Amber Noir one month, Blood Orange the next.
- You’re burning cleaner — Our soy wax refills use non-toxic, Prop 65–free fragrance oils. Safe for people, pets, and planet.
- Your candle stays part of your decor — No mismatched jars ruining your aesthetic.
- You support small batch, handcrafted goods — Each of our ceramic jars is handmade by local potters in California.
Overcoming Common Myths
If you're new to refillable candles, a few questions might come up:
Isn't the initial vessel more expensive?
Yes—but it’s a one-time investment. You save more with every refill.
Is it hard to clean or replace the wax?
Not at all. Our wax is specially formulated to contract as it cools, so it naturally pulls away from the sides. Just pop out the old refill and drop in a new one—no tools or scraping needed.
What about the refill packaging?
We’re proud to offer zero waste candle refills in recyclable packaging. Everything, down to the tape, is thoughtfully designed to minimize waste.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Candle Refills
- Choose a vessel you love—you’ll be seeing it often
- Start with one refill, then subscribe for ease and savings
- Clean your vessel with warm water if residue builds up (but most customers don’t need to)
- Store refills in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use them
- Gift a refill with a handwritten note—it’s thoughtful and sustainable
Small Switch, Big Impact
Let’s say you burn one candle a month. That’s 12 jars and 12 sets of packaging a year. Switch to a refill system, and you cut that by up to 90%.
And if 1,000 households did the same? That’s tens of thousands of jars kept out of landfills—just from a simple change.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you’re looking for a candle ritual that aligns with your values—sustainability, simplicity, intentional design—ReCandle Co. is here to help. Our system is easy, clean, and kind to the planet (and your wallet).
Start with a refillable candle or build your scent collection with our soy wax refills . We’ll make it effortless—you make it meaningful.
FAQ
Can I refill any jar I already have?
It depends on the size and shape, but our refills are designed specifically for our ceramic vessels for the best fit and performance.
Do refills burn as well as regular candles?
Yes—our wicks, wax, and vessels are tested together to ensure clean, even burns every time.
How long does a refill last?
Each wax refill burns for approximately 40–50 hours, depending on scent and room conditions.
What happens to the old refill when it’s done?
It should pop out cleanly. You can compost the remaining wax or dispose of it with minimal mess.