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Two methods generally work well in removing candle wax, depending on the surface — scraping from hard surfaces such as floors and furniture, and applying heat to carpets and fabrics while following certain guidelines. Following are tips for specific objects and surfaces.

• Candlestick holder: Place holders in the freezer to harden wax, then chip off wax with a plastic implement, such as a spatula or knife. Don’t use metal tools, which will mar or scratch the surface. If any wax residue remains, heat the candlestick holder with a hair dryer and wipe with a white paper towel. Carefully heat wooden holders, which can crack when heated.

   

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• Carpet, upholstery: Scrape away excess wax with a plastic knife. Layer brown kraft paper or white paper towels over the spot and heat the paper with an iron to blot up wax. Rotate the paper to fresh areas as wax is absorbed. Avoid using excessive pressure, which can crush the pile or texture. Don’t use an iron on carpets or upholstery made of olefin, which can melt. Blot olefin with a citrus-based solvent instead.
  
  
• Floors (vinyl, laminate, stone): Harden wax with an ice cube, then scrape it off carefully using a plastic knife or spatula.
  
  
• Non-washable fabrics: Press garment between two paper-towel sheets with a warm iron to blot away wax. Rotate the towels to clean sections and continue if necessary.
  
  
• Washable fabrics: “Pour boiling water through the garment from a height of 12 inches” until all wax melts and washes out of the fabric, Consumer Reports advises in How to Clean and Care for Practically Anything.
  
  
• Dyes used in colored candles can leave stains on clothing that may be difficult or impossible to remove. Red wax causes the most problems, and may require cleaning by a professional. Use the heat methods described above, then treat with a commercial spot remover.
  
  
• Wooden furniture: Harden the wax with an ice cube, then use a plastic knife or scraper to carefully remove wax. Don’t use metal implements to scrape finished wood. Warm wax residue with a hair dryer carefully. Blot the residue with an absorbent, soft cloth.
  

Additional reference:

Jeff Bredenberg, editor, Clean It Fast, Clean It Right: The Ultimate Guide to Making Everything You Own Sparkle & Shine