If you’re using candles to brighten holiday gatherings, it doesn’t take much to turn a festive display into a waxy mess.

But a few preparations can help you avoid damaging your prized candelabra or menorah:

¢ For glass votive holders, place a small amount of water in the bottom of the glass prior to placing the candle inside. This should prevent the melted wax from sticking to the votive.

¢ Real Simple suggests rubbing a thin coat of olive oil on the base of the holder before inserting a candle. Any dripped wax that lands on it should easily peel away.

¢ If you’re using tapered candles, place a glass bobeche around the base of each candle to catch the drips.

Don’t despair if you’ve already got dried, melted wax on your candleholders. Pop it in the freezer for a few hours, then gently scrape off the wax with a utensil wrapped in soft cloth.