Let the wax set completely, and gently scrape most of it off with a blunt knife. Then place the tablecloth between two layers of kitchen roll, and iron with a hot iron – the heat melts the wax, which is absorbed into the paper. Finally, wash the tablecloth as usual. Coloured wax can leave a tint, which can be removed with stain remover.
Candles are part of a cosy dinner – but when wax drips onto your favourite tablecloth, good advice is hard to come by. Luckily, wax is easier to remove than most people think. The key is to let the wax cool first and then use heat to lift it off again. Here's the method, step by step.
1. Let the wax set
Never remove wet wax – it just smears and makes things worse. Let it cool completely so it becomes hard and brittle. If you're in a hurry, you can put the tablecloth (or the wax blob) in the freezer for fifteen minutes; then the wax comes off more easily.
2. Scrape and iron
This is the core of the method:
- Scrape off the top, largest layer of wax with a blunt knife or a spoon.
- Place a piece of kitchen roll under and over the wax stain.
- Run a hot iron over the paper – the wax melts and is absorbed.
- Change the paper and repeat until no more wax comes up.
Tip: Use the iron without steam and on medium heat. Too high a heat can scorch the tablecloth, and steam can set the wax further.
3. Remove greasy marks and colour
Once the wax is gone, there may be a greasy mark or a tint of colour left:
- Greasy mark: dab with a little washing-up liquid, let it work, and wash as usual.
- Coloured wax: a tint of colour can often be removed with stain remover or rubbing alcohol on a cloth – test on a discreet spot first.
Watch out for delicate materials
| Material | Iron? | Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton / linen | Yes, medium heat | Handles the method fine |
| Wool | Carefully, low heat | Place an extra layer of cloth in between |
| Synthetic | No | Use the freezer method and scrape |
Prevent candle wax on the tablecloth
Use candle holders that catch the drips, and never place candles in a draught, as this makes them drip unevenly. Drip-free candles and a holder with a good bowl reduce the problem significantly.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get candle wax off a tablecloth?
Let the wax set, scrape off most of it, and iron the rest up into kitchen roll with a hot iron. Wash the tablecloth afterwards.
Can you remove candle wax without an iron?
Yes – put the tablecloth in the freezer so the wax becomes brittle, and scrape it off. However, the iron removes the last bits best.
How do I remove coloured wax?
Follow the scrape-and-iron method, and remove any colour staining with stain remover or spirit. Always test a discreet spot first.
Can I use an iron on all tablecloths?
Cotton and linen cope fine with it. Wool needs low heat and an extra layer of cloth, and synthetic tablecloths should only be frozen and scraped.
Why shouldn't wax be wet?
Wet wax smears out and penetrates further into the fabric. Always let it harden first.
Summary
Let the wax harden, scrape off most of it, and iron the rest up into a paper towel with a hot iron without steam. Remove any grease ring with washing-up liquid and colour staining with stain remover. Be careful with wool and synthetic tablecloths. With the right candlestick, it also drips much less.
Read also
- When do you put a candle in the window?
- Candle guide: types, sizes and burn time
- Glass candlesticks: guide to the loveliest choices
With the right candlestick, it drips less. See our candlesticks.
