Contact COIT for a professional cleaning!

Accidents happen—especially when candles are involved. 

One second you’re setting the mood, and the next, you’re dealing with melted wax on your favorite couch or wooden side table.

Don’t worry. You can fix it—and you don’t need to panic or grab expensive tools. 

We’ve pulled together the best ways to remove candle wax from furniture, fabric, and upholstery (and when it’s time to call in a pro).

How to Remove Candle Wax from a Couch (Fabric or Upholstery)

If you’ve spilled candle wax on your fabric couch or upholstered chair, here’s what to do:

What you’ll need:

• Ice cubes in a plastic bag
• A dull butter knife or plastic scraper
• Paper towels or a brown paper bag
• An iron or hairdryer
• Rubbing alcohol or mild dish soap
• A clean white cloth

Step-by-step:

1. Let the wax harden (or speed it up with an ice pack).
2. Scrape off as much hardened wax as you can using a dull knife or plastic edge. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric.
3. Cover the spot with a paper towel or brown paper bag.
4. Apply gentle heat. Use a warm iron or hairdryer to heat the wax. It’ll melt and transfer onto the paper. Keep moving to a clean section of paper as it absorbs.
5. Treat any leftover stain. If there’s dye from colored wax, blot the area with rubbing alcohol or a few drops of dish soap mixed with warm water. Always test a small hidden area first.
6. Rinse and blot dry. Use a damp cloth to remove any residue.
   
    

Quick Tip: Avoid using sharp tools or excessive heat, especially on delicate fabrics like velvet or linen.

How to Get Candle Wax Off Wood Furniture

Wax on your coffee table or wooden shelf? Here’s how to handle it without scratching the finish.

What you’ll need:

• A plastic scraper or credit card
• A hairdryer or warm cloth
• Soft cloths or paper towels
• Mild dish soap and warm water
• Olive oil (optional)
  
   

Step-by-step:

1. Let the wax cool and harden. Then gently lift or scrape it off with a plastic edge—never use metal.
2. Soften leftover wax with a hairdryer on low or a cloth dampened with warm water.
3. Wipe it away using a soft cloth.
4. If any residue remains, mix warm water with mild dish soap and wipe down the area.
5. For older wax buildup, try a tiny amount of olive oil to loosen it—but always test it first in an inconspicuous spot.
   
    

What NOT to do:
 Don’t use harsh chemicals or steel wool. They can strip the finish or leave marks on the wood.

Got Colored Wax? Here’s How to Handle Stains

If your candle was red, blue, or another bold color, you might notice dye left behind even after removing the wax.

To lift colored wax stains:

• Blot with rubbing alcohol on a clean cloth.
• Avoid scrubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
• Rinse with water and blot dry.
• Repeat as needed or follow up with an upholstery-safe stain remover.

FAQs: Wax Removal

How do I get wax out of a microfiber couch?

Use the same scrape-and-heat method, but skip alcohol and test any cleaners. Microfiber can stain easily.

Can I use a hairdryer instead of an iron?
 Yes! A hairdryer on medium heat works well—just hold it a few inches away to avoid overheating the fabric.

How do I remove wax from leather furniture?
 Let it harden, gently lift it, then blot with a damp cloth. Avoid heat. Follow up with a leather conditioner.

What if I can’t get the wax out?
 That’s where we come in. COIT’s professional upholstery and furniture cleaning services can handle even the trickiest wax stains.

When to Call a Professional

Some stains just don’t budge. If you’ve tried the steps above and still see discoloration, residue, or damage, a professional cleaning can help.

COIT’s trained technicians have the tools and experience to deep clean your furniture, carpets, and upholstery—without risking damage to your fabric or finish.

Final Tip

Always spot test first, especially on delicate materials. And the sooner you act, the easier wax is to remove.

Need help with a wax spill that won’t budge?

Call COIT and we’ll take care of it—so you can get back to relaxing by candlelight, wax-free.

Call the PROs at COIT for a professional clean!