How to Get Wax Out of Clothes: Quick and Easy Methods You Need to Know

Wax stains on clothes can be tricky to deal with, especially when you don’t know the right methods to get them out without damaging the fabric. Whether it’s a spill from a candle, a crayon mishap, or any other wax-related disaster, knowing how to remove wax from clothes is a skill every person should have. Luckily, there are a few tried-and-tested methods that can quickly help you clean up the mess and save your favorite outfits.

Here’s a guide on how to get wax out of clothes, along with tips for preventing future wax stains.

The Best Ways to Remove Wax Stains from Fabric

The key to removing wax from clothes is not to rub it in deeper but to carefully lift the wax off without damaging the fabric. Here are the most effective ways:

Ironing Method: Place a piece of paper towel or a brown paper bag over the wax stain. Heat an iron to medium-low setting and gently press it over the paper. The heat will melt the wax, and the paper will absorb it. Repeat with a fresh piece of paper until the stain is gone.
Freezing Method: If the wax is still solid, try freezing it. Lay your clothes in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Once the wax hardens, you can scrape it off with a dull knife. This works well with larger spills.
Dish Soap and Water: After removing most of the wax, apply a bit of dish soap directly to the stain and gently scrub with a brush or cloth. Rinse with warm water, and repeat if necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Wax Out of Clothes

Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively removing wax stains from clothes:

Scrape off Excess Wax: Use a dull knife or spoon to scrape away as much wax as possible without pushing it deeper into the fabric.
Heat Treatment: Lay a paper towel or brown paper bag over the stain. Gently press an iron on a low heat setting over the paper. This will melt the wax, and it will be absorbed into the paper.
Freezing the Stain: If heat doesn’t work, place the clothing in the freezer. Once the wax is solid, use a knife or credit card to lift off the hardened wax.
Apply Dish Soap: If any residue remains, apply dish soap to the stain and gently scrub with a cloth or soft brush.
Rinse and Launder: Wash the fabric according to its care label, and always check the stain before putting the clothes in the dryer. Repeat if necessary.

How to Tackle Candle Wax and Other Types of Wax Stains

While candle wax is one of the most common culprits, other types of wax, like crayon or wax from clothing labels, can also cause stains. Here’s how to treat each:

Candle Wax: The methods mentioned above (freezing and ironing) are your best options for candle wax. Just be sure to clean any wax residue from the fabric after removing the bulk of it.
Crayon Wax: Crayon wax can be a bit trickier due to its pigment. Start with the same freezing method and scrape off excess crayon. Follow up with a stain remover or dish soap, then launder as usual.
Wax from Clothing Tags: This type of wax can be removed easily using the ironing method. Just be careful to avoid ironing directly onto the fabric.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Wax from Clothes

Rubbing the Stain: Avoid rubbing the wax into the fabric. This will only make it harder to remove.
Using Too High Heat: Too much heat can damage your clothes. Always use a low to medium heat setting, and test on a small area first.
Skipping the Test: Before applying any cleaning method, especially dish soap or stain removers, always test on an inconspicuous area to avoid further damage.

How to Prevent Wax Stains in the Future

Preventing wax stains is always better than removing them. Here are a few tips:

Use Candles Carefully: If you’re using candles, make sure they are properly contained. Consider using a candle holder with a drip tray to catch any excess wax.
Protect Your Clothing: When eating foods with wax coatings (like chocolate or certain cheeses), wear old clothes or cover yourself with a bib to prevent spills.
Check Furniture: Be mindful of wax from candles or crayons on furniture—wherever you sit, always make sure the surfaces are free of wax drips before sitting down.

Wax stains don’t have to be a disaster. With these helpful tips, you’ll be able to restore your favorite clothes and prevent future mishaps.