How To Melt Candle Wax
Learn the easiest and safest ways to melt candle wax at home. From double boilers to microwaves, we break it down step by step.
Steps: How To Melt Candle Wax
Wondering how to melt wax for candles? When it comes to wax melting there are a few different options to choose from. Here, we’ll talk you through two of the most popular methods for melting candle wax at home – the double boiler and the microwave method.
Do not leave your double boiler unattended at any time. Any pan you used for melting wax should not be used for food preparation.
Do not leave your double boiler unattended at any time. Any pan you used for melting wax should not be used for food preparation.
How To Melt Candle Wax: The Double Boiler
The most popular way to melt wax at home is using a double boiler. Using this method, simply uses the steam as a heat source to melt your wax. The steam is generated between the two pans, or bowl and pan, from the hot water in the bottom pan. See below on how to make your own double boiler at home and how to melt wax in a double boiler:
- Fill a large pan with water (around half full) and place it on your hob/hotplate to heat.
- Place your wax in a smaller pan, glass bowl, or pouring jug.
- Put your smaller pan, glass bowl or pouring jug in the large pan and heat over medium heat until your wax has melted. Do not let your wax exceed 80°C.
- Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of your war. When your wax reaches 70°C add your colour (if desired).
- Remove your wax from the heat and let cool to 65°C. You can now add your chosen fragrance if desired. Stir gently for 1 minute.
- Your wax is now ready to pour into your chosen container.
Keep a careful watch while heating wax in the microwave and do not walk away. Be careful not to overheat the wax once it liquifies.
How To Melt Candle Wax: The Microwave
Another way to how to melt candle wax at home is in the microwave. Some people choose this method as they can melt the wax faster than if they were using a double boiler.
- Pour your wax into a microwavable container. (Ceramic and glass dishes are usually fine, but you should still check for “microwave-safe” or “heatproof” labels on their packaging.)
- Place your bowl/jug of wax in the microwave and heat for 1 minute at a time, monitoring the temperature until it reaches 80°C. (Do not let your wax exceed 80°C).
- Continue heating your wax in 2-minute intervals until it’s fully melted.
- When your wax reaches 80°C, remove from microwave and place on a safe, even, covered surface.
- Use your thermometer to ensure the wax is 70°C before adding your colour and fragrance oil.
- Add your desired amount of colour to the melted wax (we recommend 0.2%) at 70°C.
- Add your fragrance oil at 70°C (we recommend using 6% – 10% – fragrance oil should be weighed in grams on your scales).
- Give your wax a good stir, ensuring the colour and fragrance are blended with the wax.
- Your wax is now ready to pour into your chosen container.
Keep a careful watch while heating wax in the microwave and do not walk away. Be careful not to overheat the wax once it liquifies.
Keep a close watch while the SFC melter is in use and never leave it unattended. Do not exceed the recommended temperature to avoid overheating the wax
Keep a close watch while the SFC melter is in use and never leave it unattended. Do not exceed the recommended temperature to avoid overheating the wax
How to melt wax for candles: SFC Wax Melters
For larger batches or regular candle making, our wax melters offer a simple and reliable way to melt wax safely and evenly. Designed for both hobbyists and professional makers, they provide precise temperature control and consistent results every time
- Ensure the tap is in the off position before use.
- Add your wax to the melter, making sure it sits between the minimum and maximum fill lines.
- Plug in the melter and set your desired temperature using the thermostat.
- Allow the wax to melt gradually, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
- Monitor the temperature with a thermometer and do not exceed 80°C.
- Once the wax reaches 70°C, you can add colour and fragrance if required.
- When fully melted, carefully dispense the wax using the stainless-steel tap and pour into your containers.
Wax melters are ideal for melting, storing, and pouring wax efficiently, making them a dependable choice for larger-scale or repeat candle making. Always follow safety guidelines and never operate the melter below the minimum fill level.
What temperature does candle wax melt?
The temperature at which candle wax will melt differs depending on the type of wax you’re using. Soy wax will melt from around 49-82°C, while paraffin wax has a slightly lower melting point, at 46-68°C. Beeswax melts between 62-65°C, and gel wax has a higher melting point, at 82°C.
How to melt leftover candle wax
The above methods are ideal if you’re buying candle wax to make your own candles at home, but they can also be adapted for melting leftover candle wax.
For candles in glass jars, you can use the double boiler method and place the jar in water until it liquifies. Once the wax is liquid, it can be poured into a mould to create homemade wax melts.
Be careful melting leftover candle wax in a microwave, as the container may not be microwave safe. You should scoop out the leftover wax and decant it into a microwave safe container, and then follow the method detailed above.
Candles are wonderful ways to fragrance your home, both methods work for repurposing your wax but if you are working to a bigger scale you can also purchase larger capacity melters to help melt your wax.