Skip to main content

How to get candle wax out of carpet: Remove with these easy steps.


play
Show Caption

Accidents will happen. You're burning your favorite candle, soaking up those cozy vibes, and suddenly you see wax dripping down, forming a sticky stain on your rug or carpet. Well, don't panic! Contrary to popular belief, the damage might not be permanent. There's a surprisingly simple solution for removing candle wax from rugs and carpets, and it only requires two household items you probably already have on hand.

Removing a wax stain without damaging the carpet fibers can be done easily and effectively. Here's our number one solution, as well as a few alternative methods that might also come in handy. So, no need to cry over spilled wax!

Watch the video above to learn how to remove candle wax from rugs and carpet.

How to remove candle wax from carpet and rugs

Supplies:

  • Paper towel
  • Hair dryer
  • Spoon

Instructions:

  • Adjust your hair dryer to its highest heat setting.
  • Safely heat the wax from a distance.
  • As the wax begins to melt, carefully blot and absorb it using a paper towel.
  • Employ a spoon to scrape away any remaining wax residue.

Dusty fan: It’s important to clean your bathroom fan

Other ways to remove candle wax from rugs and carpet

There are several methods you can use to remove wax from carpet if the solution above doesn’t work, or if you don’t have the necessary supplies on hand. Here are a few other ways to remove candle wax from rugs and carpets:

Freezing Method:

  • Place a plastic bag filled with ice cubes on top of the wax to harden it.
  • Once the wax is frozen, gently scrape it off with a plastic scraper or a butter knife.
  • Be careful not to damage the carpet fibers while scraping.

Heat and Absorption Method:

  • Use an iron set to a low heat setting with no steam.
  • Place a brown paper bag or a clean white cloth over the wax.
  • Gently iron the paper bag or cloth for a few seconds. The heat will melt the wax, and it will be absorbed into the paper or cloth.
  • Replace the paper or cloth as needed until the wax is fully removed.

Solvent Method:

  • Apply a carpet cleaning solvent or rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth.
  • Blot the wax stain with the cloth, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.
  • Continue blotting until the wax is fully transferred onto the cloth.
  • Be sure to test the solvent on an inconspicuous area of the carpet first to ensure it doesn't cause any damage.

Yellowed plastic vents: How to easily whiten them

Reviewed-approved cleaning recommendations 

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.  

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of home and cleaning experts are always testing new vacuums, detergents and more so you can shop for the best of the best.