Key takeaways:
- Let the wax fully harden (use an ice pack if needed), then gently scrape up as much as you can with a dull knife or spoon.
- Put a paper towel or brown paper bag over the spot and lightly press with a warm iron (low/no steam) to pull wax up into the paper; replace and repeat.
- If there’s oily dye left behind, blot with rubbing alcohol or a small amount of carpet cleaner, then dab with water and dry.
There’s nothing more relaxing than burning your favorite Snif candle at home. However, if some of that candle wax gets on the carpet, your go-to relaxation tool can turn into a source of stress. Luckily, you can get wax out of your carpet, and it isn’t a complicated process.
This guide will break down how to get wax out of carpet in five easy steps, so you can enjoy your candles with the peace of mind that you’re prepared.
How Can You Get Wax Out of a Carpet?
So, it happened. Your candle tipped, dripped, or spilled, and now you’re left with a mess you’re not really sure how to clean up. Here’s what to do to get that wax out of your carpet.
1. Use Ice To Harden the Wax
The first thing you’ll want to do is use ice to harden the wax on your rug. This will make it easier and less problematic to remove.
Place a towel-wrapped ice pack or a bag of ice directly onto the wax spill. Depending on how big it is, it might take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes for the ice to fully solidify the wax. Patience is key.
2. Scrape Off Dried Wax
Once the wax is dry, use a dull knife, the edge of a credit card, or any other safe, sturdy tool you have to scrape the wax off the carpet.
Make sure to start at the edge of the spill and work your way inward. Then, vacuum up any bits that have come loose to clear the area.
3. Warm Remaining Wax With an Iron and Towel
If there’s still wax on the carpet after you scrape the spill, put a towel (that you don’t mind getting dirty) down over the remaining wax. Heat your iron to a low, dry setting, and place it on the spill. The heat will melt the wax and transfer it to the towel.
4. Absorb Leftover Melted Wax
To remove leftover wax or any color that may have stained the carpet, dab carpet cleaner or rubbing alcohol onto a clean cloth, then blot the stain.
5. Repeat Until Finished
Repeat this process as many times as necessary until the stain is gone.
Just Like New
Although it might be alarming right when it happens, spilling candle wax on your carpet shouldn’t be cause for alarm. You can easily get the wax out by following the five steps outlined in this article, and you’ll be back on track, making the most of your favorite scented candles.
FAQs
What should you do if you get candle wax on a rug?
If you get candle wax on a rug, ice the spill to cool the wax, scrape it away, use an iron and a towel to lift the remaining wax, absorb the leftover wax, and repeat the last step until the stain is entirely removed.
Does rubbing alcohol remove wax from carpet?
Yes, rubbing alcohol can remove wax from carpet, but it should only be used once the spill has been iced. Make sure to test rubbing alcohol on a spot of carpet that is under furniture or normally goes unseen to make sure it doesn’t bleach the carpet or otherwise harm the fibers.
Sources:
Types of Carpet | The Home Depot