This is a guide covering melting candle wax in the microwave.
Are you one of those DIY enthusiasts? Do you have leftover wax melts and do you want to repurpose those?
Do you feel scared to melt the candle wax over a stove? Or are you a college student who lives in a dorm room?
Some of you may not have access to a hot plate or a traditional candle wax pourer. Then, the easiest option to melt the candle wax at home is to use a microwave.
Microwaves are almost available in every household. They reduce the risk of burning hands by avoiding direct contact with hot objects.
Melting candle wax in the microwave is easy and convenient.
Candle wax is a flammable substance. You may be having concerns over leaving the candle wax unattended in the microwave.
Sure, it’s a fire hazard and a safety risk. Let us explain to you how to melt the candle wax in the microwave while following the necessary safety precautions.
Table of Contents
Can You Melt Candle Wax in the Microwave?
Well, technically, you can. But, you have to exercise proper care. Usually, it takes 4-5 minutes to melt the candle wax in a microwave.
But these numbers may vary depending upon the container that you use and the type of wax that you are trying to melt.
Always observe the candle wax if you are using the microwave to melt the candle wax. Do not use your hands to take the containers out.
Use oven mittens to take the containers out. Do not overheat the candle wax. It may result in spillages or worse, may start a fire.
How to Melt Candle Wax in the Microwave?
Supplies You Need to Melt Candle Wax in the Microwave
- Microwavable container
- Spatula
- Thermometer
Pour the candle wax into the microwavable container. Do not fill the container with too much wax. You will run a risk of spillage.
Always make sure that the container is microwave-safe. Place the container in the center of the oven. Set the microwave in the highest temperature setting and heat it for two minutes. Do not leave the microwave unattended.
After two minutes, take the container out. Measure the temperature with the thermometer. Stir the wax with the spatula.
If there is unmelted wax, place the container in the microwave again and heat it for thirty seconds. Do not overheat the wax.
Take the container out and measure the temperature of the wax. Repeat the same process until the temperature of the wax reaches 80 degrees centigrade.
Even if there’s a little unmelted wax left after the wax reaches 80 degrees, stir it with the spatula to melt the rest of the wax.
Is it Safe to Put a Candle in the Microwave?
Some people suggest using the microwave to fix the candle tunneling issue, or to melt the leftover wax stuck to the candle jars.
We can do that. People have tried this technique and it works.
But since candles are flammable, you have to exercise caution. Do not leave the candle in the microwave unattended. It might start a fire.
Can You Melt Candle Wax in a Glass Jar in the Microwave?
Yes, provided the glass jar is microwave-safe. Always check if the glass jar is heatproof and microwave-safe. Make sure that you do not overheat the glass jar.
As glass breaks beyond a threshold temperature. This might result in wax splattering all over the microwave and ruining it or worse, a fire.
Does the Type of Candle Wax Affect How it Melts in the Microwave?
Yes, the type of candle wax affects how it melts in the microwave. Each candle wax has a different melting point. So, some types of candle wax melt faster than others.
Beeswax candles have the highest melting point among the beeswax, soy, and paraffin wax candles. So, they melt the slowest.
Soy wax melts easily as it has the lowest melting point. Paraffin wax candles burn faster than beeswax candles and slower than slower candles.
What are Some Other Ways to Melt Candle Wax Quickly?
This is a frequent question our customers have. What are the other ways to melt candle wax?
If you don’t want to take a risk by melting the candle wax in the microwave, you can use the double boiler method.
Double Boiler Method
Take a large pan and fill it with water. Heat the pan filled with water on a hot plate or a stove. Pour the leftover candle wax into a glass jar or a mug and put it in the large pan.
Make sure that the glass jar or the mug is smaller than the pan.
Heat over medium heat until the wax melts or the temperature in the pouring mug reaches 70 degrees centigrade.
Does the Type of Jar Affect How it Melts?
Yes, it does. Candles usually come in various kinds of containers such as glass jars, candle tins, tealight cups, etc.,
Needless to say, it is important to check if these containers are microwave-safe if you are planning to melt the leftover wax in the microwave.
Usually, metal containers are not microwave-friendly.
If you are not using a microwave to melt, the type of jar still affects how the wax melts. Metals conduct heat faster than glass.
So, if you are using the double boiler method, it takes lesser time to melt the candle wax in the metal containers.
Final Remarks
Although melting the candle wax in a microwave doesn’t seem like a foolproof option, it is one of the at-home DIY options that’s easy and convenient.
For beginners who are considering candle making as a hobby or students who can’t afford candle melters, it’s easier to use a microwave.
If you use proper safety precautions while using a microwave, you can remove the leftover wax from the candle, prevent tunneling issues or melt the candle wax to make new candles.
We hope we answered all your questions on how to melt candle wax in a microwave and the other alternatives. We hope you enjoy your DIY experience safely!
My name is Candice and I have always loved candles since I was a kid. I continue to buy candles and try out new candle brands to this day! I started this blog to share my love of candles so I’m glad you’re here and hope that my content helps you out in some way!
