We all love the cozy vibe candles bring to our spaces. There's something magical about lighting a candle and instantly transforming a room into a peaceful, welcoming retreat. But let's face it—traditional candles come with some not-so-great baggage. Most of them get used up quickly, leaving us with leftover jars that often end up in the trash.
If you're trying to be a bit more eco-conscious, switching to reusable candles might just be the perfect solution.
So, let's talk about what makes reusable candles different and why they're a small change that can make a big impact.
And if you're dealing with old candles, leftover wax, or used jars and want to see all your options, start with our Candle Waste & Disposal Guide.
Why Candle Waste Is Actually a Problem
Have you ever thought about where all those empty candle jars go? The reality is, millions of candles get tossed every year—glass jars, tins, everything. And because a lot of these jars aren't designed for easy recycling, they usually just sit there, in a landfill.
Add to that the fact that a lot of candles are made with paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct), and it's clear: our candle habit could use a little upgrade.
The numbers are staggering:
- The average candle lover goes through 50+ candles per year
- Most candle jars are thrown away after a single use
- Glass production for new jars requires significant energy and resources
- Paraffin wax is not biodegradable and can persist in landfills
For more on this topic, see our article on the true environmental impact of traditional candles.
So, What Exactly Are Reusable Candles?
Think of reusable candles as the zero-waste approach to candle enjoyment. Instead of throwing out the container once the wax burns down, you can just pop in a new candle wax refill and keep the same jar going.
It's super simple and way less wasteful. ReCandle Co. has a whole line of reusable candles with beautiful ceramic jars that are built to last. You get all the enjoyment of a great candle, without the guilt of constant waste.
How Refillable Candles Work
The system is beautifully simple:
- Start with a durable, reusable vessel (like our handmade ceramic jars)
- Burn the soy wax refill until it's finished
- Let the wax cool, then pop out the spent refill (no scraping needed)
- Drop in a fresh refill and enjoy
For a detailed walkthrough, see our guide on how to refill candles.
Why Make the Switch? The Benefits of Reusable Candles
Less Waste, More Impact
Each reusable candle jar helps you cut down on the number of single-use jars heading for landfills. Plus, these jars are crafted to be sturdy and timeless, so they actually look nice sitting around, even when you're between refills.
By using one vessel for years instead of discarding 50+ jars annually, you're making a real difference.
Cost-Effective (Yes, Really)
Sure, reusable candles might have a higher upfront price, but think about the long game. Refill inserts are often cheaper than buying a whole new candle every time, so over time, you're spending less.
For a detailed breakdown, check out our article on refillable candle cost savings.
Style That Lasts
One of the perks of reusable candles is that they're designed to look good season after season. The ReCandle Co. jars, for example, have a modern, minimalist style that blends well with practically any decor. They're an investment in both sustainability and style.
Cleaner Ingredients
Another bonus: Reusable candles usually come with cleaner, plant-based waxes (think soy or coconut) and natural fragrances. They give you a clean burn, which is better for you and better for your space.
Learn more in our guide on what candles are non-toxic.
The Problem with Traditional Candles
Single-Use Mentality
Traditional candles are designed to be disposable. Once the wax is gone, the jar, wick tab, and packaging all become waste. This single-use model isn't sustainable when millions of people burn candles regularly.
Difficult to Recycle
Even if you want to recycle candle jars, it's not always easy:
- Leftover wax is hard to remove completely
- Labels and adhesive residue contaminate recycling
- Metal lids and wick tabs need to be separated
- Many recycling facilities won't accept them
For help with this, see our guides on how to recycle candle jars and how to reuse candle jars.
Paraffin Wax Issues
Most traditional candles use paraffin wax, which:
- Is derived from petroleum (a non-renewable fossil fuel)
- Can release VOCs when burned
- Is not biodegradable
- Contributes to dependence on oil extraction
Tips to Reduce Candle Waste (Beyond Reusable Candles)
Reusable candles are a big step, but here are a few extra tips if you're serious about making your candle habits more sustainable:
Opt for Plant-Based Waxes
Soy, coconut, and beeswax candles burn longer, cleaner, and are far better for the environment than paraffin wax. It's a small switch, but it makes a big difference.
For more on wax types, see our guide on the best candle wax options.
Burn Smart
To get the most out of each candle:
- Trim the wick to ¼ inch before lighting. See our guide on how to properly trim candle wicks.
- Avoid burning for more than 4 hours at a time
- Let the wax pool reach the edges to prevent tunneling
- Keep candles away from drafts
For comprehensive tips, check out our candle safety tips.
Repurpose Old Jars
Even if you have old candle jars that aren't refillable, don't toss them! They make great:
- Storage containers for small items (buttons, paper clips, cotton swabs)
- Mini planters for succulents
- Drinking glasses (if heat-safe)
- Bathroom organizers for makeup brushes or Q-tips
- Desk organizers for pens and pencils
Just clean out the leftover wax (pop it in the freezer to make removal easier) and give those jars a second life.
Choose Minimal Packaging
Look for candles with minimal, recyclable packaging. Avoid brands that use excessive plastic wrap, foam inserts, or non-recyclable materials.
Support Sustainable Brands
Choose brands that prioritize sustainability—from ingredient sourcing to production to packaging. Look for transparency about environmental practices.
Watch out for greenwashing and vague eco-claims.
How ReCandle Co. Makes Waste Reduction Easy
We designed our entire system around reducing waste without sacrificing quality or convenience:
Durable Ceramic Vessels
Our handmade ceramic jars are heat-safe up to 2,000°F and built to last for years. They're beautiful enough to display even when you're between refills.
Pop-Out Refills
Our specialized soy wax naturally contracts as it cools, making refills easy to remove. No scraping, no heating, no mess. Learn more about zero waste candle refills.
Recyclable Packaging
All our packaging—from boxes to tape—is fully recyclable. No plastic wrap, no foam inserts.
Tree Planting Program
We plant one tree for every order to offset shipping emissions and contribute to reforestation.
Subscription Options
Never run out of refills with our candle subscription. Choose your frequency and favorite scents, and we'll handle the rest.
Comparing Waste: Traditional vs. Refillable Candles
| Factor | Traditional Candles (1 Year) | Refillable Candles (1 Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Jars Used | 50+ glass jars | 1 ceramic vessel |
| Waste Generated | 50+ jars, lids, labels, boxes | Minimal recyclable packaging from refills |
| Cost | $25-35 per candle × 50 = $1,250+ | $48 vessel + $25 refills × 50 = $1,298 (breaks even quickly) |
| Cleanup Effort | Scraping, freezing, or disposal | Pop out and replace |
Ready to Make the Switch?
Choosing reusable candles isn't just about changing up your decor—it's about being more mindful of the impact your home goods have on the planet. And let's be real, every small change adds up.
When you go with a reusable candle from ReCandle Co., you're saying goodbye to single-use waste and hello to a product that looks good, smells amazing, and lasts.
So next time you're shopping for candles, consider the long-term impact. With every refillable jar, you're helping reduce waste and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Plus, you're getting a candle that truly feels like an intentional, lasting choice.
For more on sustainability trends, check out our article on the sustainable candles trend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much waste do traditional candles create?
If you burn one candle per week, that's about 50 glass jars, metal lids, labels, and packaging materials going to landfills annually. Multiply that by millions of candle users, and the waste adds up quickly.
Are refillable candles really more sustainable?
Yes. By reusing one vessel instead of discarding dozens of jars, you dramatically reduce waste. Refillable systems also typically use cleaner ingredients and less packaging. See our comparison on refillable vs traditional candles.
How do I clean out old candle jars for reuse?
Freeze the jar overnight, then pop out the wax. Or pour boiling water over the wax to melt it, then let it harden on top and remove. Clean with soap and water.
Can I recycle traditional candle jars?
Sometimes, but it requires removing all wax, labels, and metal components first. Many recycling programs won't accept them if they're not completely clean. See our guide on how to recycle candle jars.
Do refillable candles cost more?
The initial investment is higher, but refills cost less than buying new candles. Over time, you save money while reducing waste.
What happens when a refillable candle vessel breaks?
Our ceramic vessels are extremely durable and heat-safe. If one does break, the ceramic is recyclable in some areas. You can also purchase a replacement vessel to continue using your refills.
