Now that we’ve got recycling under control and most folks are on board, people have shifted their focus to upcycling. Rather than simply destroy the materials in order to reuse them, upcycling involves creating a new and/or better use for them. No turn around process necessary! Household items have infinite possibilities, but here are two ideas that will allow you to hang on to glass containers and save money.

Candle Jars

The method you choose depends on how clean you want the glass to be when you’re done. If you don’t mind a bit of “foggy” residue then you can simply use the freezer method. Freeze the candle jar for 30 minutes, and presto, the wax pops right out. Use a butter knife to gently dislodge it.

If you want the jars to be clean and clear, opt for the hot water method. Simply fill the jar with water that’s at a full boil. Let it cool completely! Once it’s cool the wax floats right to the top! Discard the water, and absolutely do not pour it down the drain. (Or you might as well put hot wax down your drain!) Once the jar is rinsed and dried, check for stubborn wax remnants. To get rid of them, use soapy water and a brillo pad, and you’ll have a great basic glass piece for your project.

Essential Oil Bottles

Although it might sound like quite a challenge to reuse a container with a strong, concentrated fragrance, a little soaking goes a long way! Start by peeling off the label. Remove plastic cap and dropper cover, and submerge all parts in warm soapy water. Soak overnight. Discard water and remove any remaining particles from the labels. (Lemon essential oil will help if a label is especially sticky and stubborn.)  You might be able to stop at this point, but if traces of the scent remain, put all parts in a bowl of ½ water and ½ alcohol. Soak overnight again, rinse, and air dry.