How does one clean candle moulds?

Here's how to clean candle molds, broken down by mold material and the type of wax used:

Cleaning Supplies:

* Warm soapy water: Use a mild dish soap.

* White vinegar: Helpful for removing residue and odors.

* Baking soda: A gentle abrasive for stubborn spots.

* Paper towels or microfiber cloths: For drying and wiping.

* Old toothbrush: For scrubbing tight corners and crevices.

Cleaning Process:

1. Let the candle cool completely. This prevents the wax from sticking and making cleaning more difficult.

2. Remove any leftover wax. Here's how to do it based on the type of wax:

* Soy wax: Soy wax is typically soft and can be peeled off by hand. Use a butter knife if needed.

* Paraffin wax: Paraffin wax can be more stubborn. Try using a hair dryer on a low heat setting to melt the remaining wax, then wipe it away with a paper towel.

* Gel wax: Gel wax can be harder to remove. Try using a metal spoon to scrape off as much as possible, then soak the mold in warm soapy water.

* Beeswax: Beeswax is often the easiest to remove. It should simply peel off with a little help from a knife or spoon.

3. Clean the mold thoroughly.

* Soak: Soak the mold in warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes.

* Scrub: Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any remaining wax or residue.

* Vinegar rinse: Rinse the mold with white vinegar to remove any soap residue and to deodorize.

* Dry: Thoroughly dry the mold with paper towels or a microfiber cloth.

4. Specific Mold Materials:

* Metal Molds: These are the easiest to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher.

* Plastic Molds: Wash with warm soapy water and avoid harsh cleaners or hot temperatures.

* Silicone Molds: Wash with warm soapy water or use a baking soda paste for tough stains.

* Glass Molds: These are generally easy to clean but can be more fragile. Avoid harsh cleaners and use a soft cloth.

Extra Tips:

* Avoid using sharp objects to remove wax as they can scratch or damage the mold.

* Test the cleaning solution on a hidden area of the mold before using it on the entire surface.

* Store your molds in a clean, dry place when not in use.

By following these steps, you can keep your candle molds clean and ready for your next project.