How to Clean Votive Candle Holders

Using votive light holders in your home not only makes it look more elegant and classy, they also help make it feel warm and cozy. Some of these artistic items may sparkle at first, but over time they may lose their charm as dust, dirt, and wax build up on them.

If you want to keep your votive candle stands looking nice and enjoy their warm glow for years to come, this article will show you how to clean them step-by-step.

Supplies Needed:

Before you start cleaning your votive candle holders, gather the following supplies:

• Warm water
• Dish soap
• Soft sponge or cloth
• Nylon brush (optional)
• Paper towel or clean, dry cloth
• Baking soda or rubbing alcohol (for stubborn residue)

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Step 1: Remove Excess Wax

Before washing or soaking your votive holders, it’s crucial to rid them of any leftover wax. Wax can be stubborn, If the wax is hard to remove, put the stand in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. It will be easy to pop out because the wax will get smaller.

Alternatively, gently scrape off the wax using a butter knife or plastic scraper, taking care not to scratch the surface of your candle holder.

Step 2: Prepare a Soapy Solution

Next, prepare a cleaning solution. Fill warm water in a basin or your sink. Ensuring the water is sudsy but not too hot, as this may damage delicate or antique votive holders. Add a few drops of dish soap to the water and stir until you have good sudsy water.

Step 3: Soak the Votive Holders

Now, it’s time to soak the votive holders. Place them in the soapy water and let them sit for ten to fifteen minutes. This soaking time helps loosen any grime, dirt, or residual wax, making the cleaning process much easier.

Step 4: Gently Scrub

Clean the outside and inside of each votive holder with a soft cloth or sponge after letting them soak. For stubborn spots or areas difficult to reach, use a soft toothbrush. Ensure you’re gentle during the scrubbing process to prevent any scratches or damages.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

After you have scrubbed away the residue, Once the votive holders are clean, it’s time to rinse. Hold each one under a stream of warm water, ensuring you completely rinse out the soap as leftover soap can leave a cloudy film on glass surfaces.

Step 6: Dry Your Votive Holders

Finally, shake off the excess water from your votive holders and let them air dry on a towel. If the holders are made of glass, you might prefer to dry them immediately to avoid water spots. You can use a hair dryer on a cool setting or simply pat them dry with a soft towel.

Step 7: Polish (optional)

To give your votive holder a final shine, use a soft cotton or microfiber polishing cloth to gently buff the surface. This will not only make it look better, it also will help bring back its original shine.

Additional Tips for Removing Stubborn Residue

If your votive candle holders have stubborn residue that you can’t remove with the previous steps, try using baking soda or rubbing alcohol.

Baking Soda Method:

• Mix baking soda and water together to make a paste.
• Apply the paste to the votive holder and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
• Scrub the holder gently with a soft cloth or brush. Then, wash it well with warm water and dry it.

Rubbing Alcohol Method:

• Moisten a cloth or cotton swab with rubbing alcohol.
• Gently wipe the votive holder’s area with the stubborn residue, applying more rubbing alcohol as needed.
• Rinse the votive holder with warm water and dry.

By regularly cleaning your votive candle holders, You’ll take good care of them and make sure they always look beautiful in your home. Remember to be gentle while cleaning to protect their surface and maintain their beauty.

Cleaning Safety Measures

While cleaning, prioritize safety:

• Avoid using sharp objects that may scratch the holders.
• Work in a well-ventilated area when using cleaning agents.
• Handle votive candle holders with care to prevent breakage

Benefits of Cleaning

Maintaining clean votive candle holders offers various benefits:

• Enhanced aesthetics and visual appeal.
• Prolonged lifespan of the holders.
• Creates a welcoming atmosphere with radiant candlelight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can easily clean and maintain your votive candle holders, ensuring that they retain their beauty and charm for years to come. The process doesn’t require any harsh chemicals or specialized tools, so you can confidently clean your votive holders without causing any damage or harm to their delicate surfaces.

Remember to clean your votive candle holders regularly, and enjoy the warm, cozy glow they provide to your home decor.