Cleaning Series: How to Clean Up Spilled Wax From Your Floors

Accidents happen, and if you've spilled wax on your floor, don't worry, we've got you covered! Whether it’s a few drops or an entire wax melt mishap (*sigh* trust us, we've been there), the good news is that removing spilled wax is easier than you think. In part II of this series we'll explore the most effective techniques to clean up wax mishaps from various types of floorings. 

How to Remove Wax from Hardwood Floors

1. Let the Wax Harden – Avoid smearing the wax while it’s still hot as this will just make a bigger mess to clean later. Allow it to fully harden by just leaving it alone and then place an ice pack or bag of ice over it to harden it completely and make it brittle.
2. Scrape Gently – Use a plastic scraper or a credit card to lift the hardened wax. Avoid using any metal tools to prevent scratching the floor.
3. Heat and Absorb – For bigger spills, place a paper towel or a brown paper bag over any remaining residue and gently warm it with an iron on low heat with no steam. The leftover wax will transfer to the paper.
4. Clean the Surface – Wipe the area with a hardwood floor cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and warm water to remove any lingering residue.
   
   

How to Remove Wax from Tile Floors

1. Let the Wax Cool – Trying to wipe up warm or liquid wax will only smear it around and can make an even bigger mess. Let the spill cool down completely. To speed up the process you can apply an ice pack to the spilled wax to freeze it which can make the next step easier...
2. Scrape Away the Wax – Use a plastic scraper or a blunt knife to remove the hardened wax. Be sure to get in between any grout as well. If you have an old toothbrush or small scrubbing brush you can use that to get at any bits that might be in the grouting to lift it off.
3. Use Warm Soapy Water – Wash the area with a cloth and mild dish soap to remove any remaining residue.
4. Polish if Needed – If your tiles look dull after cleaning, restore shine with a suitable tile polish. Similarly for the grounting you can mix a grout cleaner with warm water, and follow the product's instructions for cleaning.
   
   

How to Remove Wax from Laminate Flooring

1. Let the Wax Harden – Allow the wax to fully harden by just leaving it alone and then place an ice pack or bag of ice over it to harden it completely and make it brittle.
   
2. Gently Scrape It Off – Use a plastic scraper or credit card to lift the hardened wax.
3. Apply Heat if Necessary – If any wax remains, use a hairdryer on a low setting to soften it, then wipe with a microfiber cloth.
4. Clean with a Laminate-Safe Cleaner – Finish by wiping the area with a laminate floor cleaner to prevent streaks.
   
   

How to Remove Wax from Vinyl Flooring

1. Cool the Wax – Allow the wax to harden naturally or use an ice pack to speed up the process.
2. Scrape Off Gently – Use a plastic scraper to lift the wax without damaging the vinyl.
3. Use Warm, Soapy Water – Dampen a cloth with warm, soapy water and wipe the surface clean.
4. Buff the Area – Dry the spot with a soft cloth to prevent any dullness.
   
   

How to Remove Wax from Carpeted Floors

1. Blot Up Excess Wax While Warm – If the wax is still liquid, carefully blot it with a paper towel to absorb as much as possible without spreading it around.
2. Let the Remaining Wax Harden – If some wax has soaked into the fibers, allow it to dry to prevent smearing.
3. Scrape Away Excess Wax – Use a plastic scraper to lift off the top layer of wax and remove as much of the hardened wax as possible
4. Use Heat to Absorb Residue – Place a brown paper bag, paper towel or a clean cloth over the wax and apply a warm iron on a low setting with no steam. The wax will transfer to the paper or cloth. Depending on the extent of the spill, you may have to repeat this process several times, changing out the brown paper, paper towel or cloth as it becomes saturated with the wax. 
5. Apply a Carpet Cleaner – If any discoloration remains, use a carpet cleaner or rubbing alcohol to blot away the stain.
6. Vacuum the Area – Once the spot is dry, vacuum the area to restore the carpet fibers.
   
   

Final Tips for Wax Spills

• Always use gentle scraping tools to avoid damage. Plastic bench scrapers are a great option.
• Test heat application on an inconspicuous area to prevent surface discoloration.
• If wax is colored, act quickly to avoid staining.
• Regular floor maintenance helps prevent wax buildup and improves overall cleanliness so be sure to clean up spills as they happen.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively remove wax from any flooring type and keep your surfaces looking their best! 

- Kitty.