How to Remove Candle Wax from Tile

Linda said, “How do you remove candle drippings from ceramic tiles?”

Table of Contents:

Removing the Wax
Additional Tips and Advice

When candle wax drips onto a hard surface, it just smears around if you try to wipe it up. Thankfully, there are a couple tricks that make wax easy to remove. Use the steps below to remove the wax from your tile or the grout between the tiles, and use the information in the Additional Tips section to prevent this situation from reoccurring.

Removing the Wax

You Will Need:

Ice
A dull knife
A brown paper bag
An iron

Steps to Remove the Wax:

Rub an ice cube over the wax to help it solidify. Once the wax has hardened, use a fingernail or a dull knife to carefully chip it off.
If there is any wax residue that is stubborn, lay a brown paper bag over it. Rub an iron on low heat over the brown paper bag, rotating the bag to a clean area as the wax absorbs into it.
If there is a dye stain left on the tile from the wax, use our guide How to Remove Dye Stains from Tile.

Additional Tips and Advice

Try to avoid using petroleum-based candles. These candles usually have stronger dyes that are more difficult to remove.
Always use candle holders or place a small dish under a candle to prevent the wax from dripping onto a surface that could stain.