How do I remove candle wax from sarees and ethnic garments? (Common at festival celebrations)

Candle wax drips are a common hazard at Diwali, weddings, and religious events where ethnic wear is worn. The key is solidifying the wax before attempting removal:

Step 1 — Freeze the wax:

• Do NOT try to remove liquid wax — it will spread deeper into fibres
• Place the garment in a sealed bag and put in the freezer for 30–60 minutes — the wax becomes brittle
• Or: apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth directly to the wax

Step 2 — Crack and flake off:

• Once the wax is frozen solid, gently flex the fabric to crack the wax, then carefully flake off pieces with a blunt edge (back of a spoon or fingernail)

Step 3 — Remove residue:

• Place the stained area between two pieces of brown paper bag or blotting paper
• Apply a warm (not hot) iron on top — the wax residue transfers into the paper
• Repeat with fresh paper until no more wax transfers

Colour residue: If coloured candle wax left a dye mark, treat like a regular dye stain with oxygen bleach (for white/light fabric) or isopropyl alcohol.