Discover How to Remove Candle Wax from Oriental Rug: Candle wax spills on an Oriental rug can be a common occurrence, especially during the holiday season. But fear not! With the right tools and technique, you can easily remove candle wax from your precious rug.
How to Remove Candle Wax from Oriental Rug

So, How do you get candle wax out of a rug? Today, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to become an expert at handling this pesky issue.
What You’ll Need
- Dull knife or butter knife: To scrape off the excess wax from the rug’s surface.
- Paper bag: Use a regular paper bag that you can cut into pieces.
- Iron: Ensure the iron is set to a medium heat, not too hot or warm.
- Towel: To protect the rug and work on removing the wax effectively.
- Appleby spotter or detergent: A cleaning solution to tackle any remaining wax residue.
Easy Step-by-Step Guide
- Scrape Off Excess Wax: Start by using the dull knife or butter knife to carefully scrape off as much of the candle wax as possible. Gently work at it and break up the wax into smaller pieces. You can also use your fingers if they are more effective at removing certain areas.
- Prepare the Iron and Paper Bag: Place a clean towel next to the remaining wax. Cut a piece of the paper bag that will cover the affected area. Preheat the iron to medium heat.
- Apply Heat to Remove Embedded Wax: Lay the paper bag over the wax on the rug. Now, place the preheated iron on top of the paper bag. The goal is to melt the wax so that it transfers onto the paper bag. Be cautious not to use an iron that is too hot, as it may damage the rug fibers.
- Transfer the Wax: As you apply heat, the wax will start melting and transferring onto the paper bag. This prevents the wax from spreading to other areas of the rug. Move the iron around to cover the entire affected region.
- Repeat the Process: You may need to use several pieces of the paper bag to absorb all the melted wax effectively. Continue heating the wax and transferring it to the paper until most of the wax has been removed from the rug.
- Treat Any Remaining Residue: Once you have removed the bulk of the wax, you may notice some residue still on the rug. Take the Appleby spotter (or any detergent) and spray it lightly over the remaining wax-stained area.
- Heat and Steam: Lay a clean towel over the area where the residue is present. Then, use the iron with a little steam to heat the towel and help lift the remaining wax particles from the rug fibers.
- Inspect and Repeat if Necessary: Lift the towel and check if the wax residue is gone. If needed, you can repeat steps 6 and 7 until the rug is completely clean.
FAQs on Removing Candle Wax from Oriental Rug
What Removes Dried Candle Wax?
To remove dried candle wax, mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water. Dampen a microfiber cloth with the soapy water and gently clean the area where the wax was. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth to absorb any remaining liquid and buff away any streaks.
How Does Vinegar Remove Candle Wax From Carpet?
Vinegar removes candle wax from carpet by acting as a cleaning agent when combined with baking soda. It neutralizes the wax stain and helps dissolve the baking soda, making it easier to lift the wax from the carpet fibers.
Does Baking Soda Remove Candle Wax?
Yes, baking soda can help remove candle wax. Sprinkling baking soda over the wax and gently scrubbing the carpet can lift the wax and absorb any remaining residue.
What Chemical Will Dissolve Candle Wax?
Vinegar will dissolve candle wax.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You are now equipped with the knowledge to confidently remove candle wax from your Oriental rug. Remember to act quickly when dealing with wax spills, as it is easier to remove when it’s fresh.
By following these simple steps, you can preserve the beauty and integrity of your rug for years to come.

I am Zuhe Honorata Ejsmont, I have over 8 years of experience working with rugs and carpets, and I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned through my blog. I’m passionate about helping people find the perfect rug to fit their style and needs. I focus on clear, easy-to-understand advice about different materials, designs, and care tips.
Currently, I serve as a co-founder of WhatsMyRugsize.com. When I’m not writing, I love exploring local markets to discover unique rugs and adding new touches to my own home.