How to Open a Stuck Candle Jar

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Things You'll Need

  • Sink

  • Knife

  • Microwave

  • Blow dryer

Artisans make jar candles by pouring scented, colored wax into a lidded jar. To burn the candle, you must remove the lid. If you have previously burned your candle and replaced the lid, the lid may have become stuck on the jar with melted wax. Fortunately, there are a number of methods you can use to melt or soften the wax and open a stuck candle jar lid. Once you get the lid off the jar, you can enjoy your candle's scent once more.

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Step 1

Fill a sink with very hot water and submerge the candle jar. Allow the jar to soak for 5 minutes, then attempt to remove the lid. If it still doesn't budge, return the candle jar to the hot water for another 5 minutes.

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Step 2

Tap all the way around the edge of the lid with the blade of a butter knife. This may be enough to break the seal keeping the candle jar stuck.

Step 3

Microwave the candle jar on 50 percent heat for 10 seconds. If the jar doesn't open, return it to the microwave for another 10 seconds.

Step 4

Hold the base of the candle jar and tap the edge of the lid against a countertop. Rotate the jar slowly and tap gently to help break the seal.

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Step 5

Heat the lid with a blow dryer on high heat. Keep the dryer moving around the edge of the lid. Try opening the jar every 10 to 15 seconds until the lid comes loose.

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