How to Remove Wax from a Glass Table Top

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Candles are a beloved source of fragrance and natural, soft lighting. However, the wax buildup they leave behind can be difficult to remove, especially from a surface that can easily crack or scratch like glass table top. With some patience and the right tools, you can easily remove wax buildup and keep your glass table top looking new.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Melting the Wax

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    [1] While wax hardens and becomes difficult to remove after it dries, it can easily be melted again by applying heat. In its melted state, it will be much easier to remove.
    • While you can use a microwave or boiling water to melt wax off a glass plate or votive candle stick, [2] you’ll want to find an easier method for a table.
    • Use a hair dryer to heat up the wax until it becomes viscous. [3] [4]
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    [5] Use a damp cloth or a soft sponge to wipe the wax off the table.
    • Use a flat, dragging motion instead of dabbing at the wax.
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    [6] Spray the area with glass cleaner and wipe it down with a lint-free cloth.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Using a Solvent

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    [7] Use a solvent like window cleaner, rubbing alcohol, drain cleaner, bleach or vinegar to dissolve the wax and separate it from the glass surface, making it easy to remove.
    • Spray or pour the solvent on the waxy area until it begins to dissolve.
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    Use a damp cloth or a soft sponge to wipe the wax off the table.
    • Use a flat, dragging motion instead of dabbing at the wax.
    • Repeat application of the solvent and wiping until the wax buildup is gone.
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    Spray the area with glass cleaner and wipe it down with a lint-free cloth.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Scraping the Wax

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    Scraping is not ideal because you could end up damaging your glass surface. Preferably, you will only be scraping small amounts of wax that remain after trying the previous methods to remove the largest chunks. [8]
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    A wide, plastic window scraper is the most ideal tool for the job. Work slowly and try to slide the scraper under the wax rather than cutting down into it.
    • This method is both more efficient for peeling off larger chunks and is less likely to cut into the glass. [9]
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    If you don’t have a scraper or if the edge isn’t sharp enough, a razorblade is your last resort.
    • The risk of damaging the surface is even greater so be very careful and try to keep the blade parallel to the surface to minimize scratching.
    • Make sure you’ve thoroughly loosened the wax with heat or a solvent before using a blade.
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    Use a damp cloth or a soft sponge to wipe the wax off the table.
    • Use a flat, dragging motion instead of dabbing at the wax.
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    Spray the area with glass cleaner and wipe it down with a lint-free cloth.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What will dissolve wax?
    Guy Peters
    House Cleaning Professional
    Guy Peters is the Owner of MOP STARS Cleaning Service, a complete house cleaning service for residential and commercial clients, based in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 2014, MOP STARS provides regular, move in/out, deep, and commercial cleaning services. Guy has a BA in Finance from the California State University - Sacramento and an MBA from Cornell University.
    Guy Peters
    House Cleaning Professional
    Expert Answer
    Most solvents will work to break up and remove wax—this includes common household items like nail polish remover and rubbing alcohol.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
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  • Question
    Does vinegar remove wax from glass?
    Guy Peters
    House Cleaning Professional
    Guy Peters is the Owner of MOP STARS Cleaning Service, a complete house cleaning service for residential and commercial clients, based in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 2014, MOP STARS provides regular, move in/out, deep, and commercial cleaning services. Guy has a BA in Finance from the California State University - Sacramento and an MBA from Cornell University.
    Guy Peters
    House Cleaning Professional
    Expert Answer
    You're better off dissolving it with a solvent or softening it with a hair dryer. With either method, focus on removing as much wax as possible from the glass. Then, clean off any remaining residue with your standard glass cleaner.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      References

      1. ↑ Guy Peters. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 27 September 2021.
      2. ↑ https://www.auntpeaches.com/2012/09/how-to-remove-candle-wax-from-glass.html
      3. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-remove-candle-wax-from-just-about-everything-164694
      4. ↑ Guy Peters. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 27 September 2021.
      5. ↑ Guy Peters. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 27 September 2021.
      6. ↑ Guy Peters. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 27 September 2021.
      7. ↑ Guy Peters. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 27 September 2021.
      8. ↑ https://www.stain-removal-101.com/candle-wax-stain-removal.html
      9. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/how-to-get-wax-any-surface

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