Beeswax Uses Right from the Hive

Every once and a while, a visitor comes to the Honey House specifically for our beeswax. These people are DIY mavens: they've either been working with beeswax for various projects for years or recently saw something on the internet and feel like being crafty. Other times, people ask us about the role of beeswax in particular projects and we're happy to provide insight on the topic.

Honeybee secreting wax from a gland in it's underside

What is Beeswax?

Beeswax is a remarkable natural substance produced by honey bees. Secreted from the wax glands on the underside of a bee's abdomen, this wax is essential for building and maintaining the intricate structure of the honeycomb within the beehive.

Composed of a complex mixture of esters, fatty acids, and hydrocarbons, beeswax is a waxy substance created by young honey worker bees. It is not water soluble and has a relatively low melting point, around 150 degrees Fahrenheit, making it versatile for various applications. Additionally, beeswax is a natural, organic substance that is malleable and chemically soluble, further enhancing its utility in diverse projects.

The color of beeswax varies and is completely created by nature. Yellow beeswax, in particular, is preferred for its natural properties, slight honey scent, and versatility in applications such as eco-friendly food wraps, cosmetics, and making candles.

Interestingly, this natural substance is chemically composed of over 280 different compounds, making it a versatile and valuable material. Historically, it was mixed with olive oil and almond oil to create salves in ancient Greece and Rome. The first identified use of beeswax was to fill a cavity in a 6500-year-old tooth, showcasing its historical significance.

Removing wax caps from a frame of honey during honey harvest

How We Harvest Beeswax

When harvesting honey, we start collecting wax out in the field. We harvest wax from our hives as a byproduct of processing our honey.

When you collect honey, you remove capped frames from the hives and slice off the top layer of wax to remove the debris. Bees use honeycomb, made from wax, to store their honey. Worker bees use beeswax to create cells in their hives. The hexagonal design of wax cells creates the iconic honeycomb pattern, which is both functional and visually striking.

The frames are spun in a chamber, which removes the honey and loose bits of wax. After we filter and process our honey, we're left with a few pounds of raw beeswax. Then, we filter our beeswax by hand and with special equipment in our lab.

We don't process beeswax often, partly because it is so laborious. I can't say that this was the most graceful of projects at the Honey House. Our processes have since changed after that day so that our wax is in better shape when we start.

This wax then gets poured into various molds and is allowed to cool until it hardens. From here, the possibilities are endless as to how you can put our beeswax to use!

Woman enjoying body butter made with beeswax application

Properties and Benefits of Natural Beeswax

Beeswax is a powerhouse of benefits, making it a staple in many households and industries:

• Natural Emollient: It helps to soften and soothe the skin, making it a popular ingredient in cosmetic products due to its natural skin protective properties.
• Moisturizing Properties: It provides a protective barrier that locks in moisture and shields the skin from environmental stressors.
• Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial Properties: Particularly beneficial for those with skin conditions like eczema and acne.
• Gentle and Safe: Ensures that skincare products are gentle and safe for all skin types.

How to Melt Beeswax

To use beeswax in various projects, you often need to melt it first. This can be done as easily as by placing it in a disposable metal can and heating it in a pot of water.

The simplest method is using a double boiler system. This provides even heating and reduces the risk of fire, as beeswax is flammable. Always melt wax at a lower temperature and never leave it unattended.

Raw beeswax helps with so much around the house

Beeswax Uses Around the Home

Wood Care and Furniture Polish

Mixing this natural wax with plant and essential oils makes for a great all-natural wood furniture and floor polish. It can be a natural lubricant for stuck doors, windows, and nails. The wax can also be used to lubricate squeaky hinges and drawers.

It can be used to treat tools to prevent rusting, as it acts as a waterproof coating. Additionally, it provides a smooth and rich finish when used on wood projects as a polish.

For the kitchen enthusiast, treating wooden spoons and cutting boards with a thin layer of wax creates a natural water-resistant barrier that extends the life of your wooden goods and prevents absorption of food odors. Additionally, beeswax creates a natural barrier that protects the wood. This simple hack can make a huge difference in the longevity of your favorite wooden kitchen tools.

Metal Polish

Beeswax isn't just for skincare and candles; it also makes an excellent natural metal polish. This eco-friendly alternative to commercial metal polishes is easy to make and use, providing a shiny and protective finish to your metal surfaces.

To create your own metal polish, melt beeswax and mix it with olive oil and a bit of lemon juice. The olive oil helps to condition the metal, while the lemon juice adds a bit of extra shine. Apply the mixture to the metal surface with a cloth, then buff it to a gleaming finish.

Using beeswax in metal polish offers several benefits:

• Natural and Non-Toxic: Unlike many commercial polishes, beeswax is free from harmful and unnecessary chemicals, making it safe for you and the environment.
• Protective Barrier: Beeswax helps to protect metal surfaces from corrosion and damage, extending their lifespan.
• Easy to Use: This simple recipe is easy to make and apply, providing a quick and effective way to keep your metal items looking their best.

Waterproofing

Beeswax is both malleable and water insoluble, making it effective for waterproofing surfaces. It creates a natural barrier that protects various surfaces from damage and wear.

Additionally, it can thicken solutions and act as a plasticizing agent in waterproofing shoes. Numerous DIY tutorials teach you how to waterproof your leather and canvas shoes with this wax and a blow dryer. My main tip is to do a small test patch before treating the entire shoe.

Eco-Friendly Food Storage

Hate wasting plastic bags and cling wrap? Reusable food wraps are another great project to try with this wax. With your choice of fabric, create your own eco-friendly wrap to keep food fresh. Make sure to find a recipe with pine resin; it gives the wrap the traditional cling and durability needed. These wraps can be washed and reused multiple times, saving money and resources.

Food storage solutions with beeswax offer an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wraps and containers. Beeswax wraps can be created at home or purchased from local beekeepers who often diversify into various bee products beyond just honey. Supporting these artisans not only provides you with high-quality, sustainable products but also helps maintain healthy populations of honeybees and other bees essential to our ecosystem.

Beeswax provides skincare for the entire body

Beeswax in Cosmetics and Skincare

Beeswax is a beloved ingredient in the world of cosmetics and skincare, thanks to its natural moisturizing and protective qualities. Often found in lip balms, lotions, creams, and body butters, beeswax helps to lock in moisture and soothe dry, irritated skin.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for calming skin conditions. When combined with other nourishing ingredients like shea butter, olive oil, and essential oils, beeswax creates a luxurious and effective skincare product. Its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles makes it a favorite in anti-aging formulations.

Unlike slathering petroleum jelly, homemade vapor rubs made with beeswax can soothe the skin around the nose during illness without the greasy feel of petroleum products. Beeswax is also used in various cosmetic products, enhancing their texture and efficacy.

Whether you're crafting a homemade lip balm or a rich body butter, beeswax is a key ingredient that ensures your skin stays healthy, hydrated, and glowing.

Plastic-Free Honey Lip Balm contains organic beeswax and is a wonderful product

Lip Balm and Body Butter

Lip balm and body butter are two popular products that can be easily crafted using the natural goodness of beeswax. This versatile ingredient is a natural emollient, making it perfect for soothing and calming dry skin, which is why it's a staple in many DIY skincare recipes.

To make your own lip balm, start by melting beeswax and coconut oil together in a double boiler. Once melted, add in shea butter and your favorite essential oils for fragrance and additional benefits. Pour the mixture into lip balm tubes or small containers and let it cool and harden. The result is a nourishing lip balm that keeps your lips soft and hydrated.

For a luxurious body butter, combine beeswax with cocoa butter, olive oil, and jojoba oil. Melt the beeswax and cocoa butter together, then stir in the olive oil and jojoba oil. Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify. This rich body butter will provide deep moisture and create a natural protective barrier on your skin.

Using beeswax in lip balm and body butter offers several benefits:

• Moisturizing and Protecting: Beeswax helps to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and protected from the elements.
• Soothing and Calming: Its natural properties soothe irritated skin, making it ideal for dry or sensitive skin.
• Natural Barrier: Beeswax creates a protective layer on the skin, shielding it from environmental stressors without clogging pores.

Solid Perfumes

Creating solid perfumes with wax provides a portable, long-lasting fragrance option that avoids the alcohol found in spray perfumes. Simply melt your beeswax in a double boiler, add your favorite essential oils, and pour into small containers for easy application.

Homemade Deodorant

Use it to make homemade deodorant. Beeswax serves as a thickener in various DIY beauty products, enhancing their texture and usability. It also acts as a natural protective moisture barrier in homemade deodorants, preventing sweat stains and providing protection without harmful chemicals.

Salves and Remedies

This wax is good for the skin. Several recipes use it as an ingredient in do-it-yourself home remedy salves for minor burns and scrapes. It can also be used in homemade lotions and creams, as it locks in moisture and helps keep skin firm and plump.

Combining it with cocoa butter creates a rich, solid moisturizer that locks in moisture and soothes dry skin. It also has anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe easily irritated skin.

Raw yellow beeswax straight from the hive and ready to melt and use in home projects

Beeswax Candles and Home Decor

Beeswax candles are a wonderful alternative to traditional paraffin versions, offering a natural, eco-friendly, and sustainable option for your home. Made by melting pure beeswax and pouring it into molds, these emit a unique, natural scent and a warm, soft glow that creates a cozy atmosphere.

Unlike those that contain paraffin, beeswax versions are believed to have air-purifying properties, releasing negative ions that can help to cleanse the air and promote a healthy environment. You can also add essential oils to the wax to create your own scented versions, making them a delightful addition to your home.

Make your own easy rolled versions. Sheets of this wax can be used to create rolled forms by being wrapped around a wick. These burn cleaner and brighter compared to paraffin ones.

Beyond these, beeswax can be used in various home decor items such as furniture polish and wax melts, adding a touch of natural elegance to any room. Whether you're lighting a beeswax version for a relaxing evening or polishing your wooden furniture, beeswax brings a sense of purity and tranquility to your home.

Using honeycomb in baking is thought-provoking

Beeswax in Food and Cooking

Beeswax is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your culinary creations while promoting sustainability. Here are some delightful ways to incorporate beeswax into your kitchen:

• Food Wrapping: Ditch the plastic wrap and opt for reusable beeswax wraps. Simply melt beeswax, mix it with a natural oil like coconut or olive oil, and apply it to a piece of cloth. These wraps are perfect for keeping your food fresh and reducing waste.
• Candy Making: Beeswax can be a game-changer in candy making, especially for caramels and toffees. It helps create a smooth and creamy texture, making your homemade treats even more delectable.
• Baking: Use beeswax to create a natural, non-toxic coating for pastries and breads. This not only adds a subtle flavor but also helps in achieving a beautiful, golden crust. Baking with honey is not as difficult as you many think.
• Cheese Preservation: Preserve your cheese the traditional way by coating it with a layer of melted wax. This method prevents mold and bacteria growth, ensuring your cheese stays fresh longer.
• Cooking Oil: Create a natural cooking oil by mixing beeswax with other oils like coconut or olive oil. This blend can be used for greasing pans or adding a unique touch to your dishes.
• Eat It Raw: Chew on a piece of raw honeycomb like chewing gum, or smear it onto hot toast. Honeycomb is also fantastic over top of granola or oatmeal and perfect on ice cream.

Fire starters are a fun-to-make, pragmatic gift

Fun Creative Projects with Beeswax

Beeswax is a fantastic ingredient for a variety of creative projects. Here are some ideas to inspire your next DIY adventure:

Fire Starters

This natural wax is flammable! Thus it makes a tremendous non-toxic fire starter with pinecones that can be found in your backyard. Just be sure to do this at a lower temperature, and don't allow children to play with flammable materials.

DIY Crayons

Try making do-it-yourself crayons for a fun weekend project. Mix equal parts wax and soap and add food coloring for a splash of color; it's an easy way to make non-toxic crayons.

Artistic Uses

Beeswax is used in the 'lost wax method,' a traditional process for metal casting that has been employed for centuries. Additionally, it can be used as a natural coating for pottery to make it waterproof. You can also make encaustic paint with beeswax. You can also create wax melts that release a natural scent when heated.

Charcuterie Boards

Honeycomb nestled into your charcuterie boards adds a sweet element

Tips for Working with Beeswax

Working with beeswax can be a rewarding experience, but it requires some care and attention. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:

• Melt the Wax Carefully: Use a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl to melt beeswax. This ensures even heating and reduces the risk of overheating or burning the wax.
• Use the Right Ratio: When mixing beeswax with other ingredients, aim for a ratio of 1 part beeswax to 2 parts oil. This balance helps achieve the desired consistency and effectiveness.
• Add Essential Oils Carefully: Essential oils can enhance your beeswax projects with delightful fragrances and additional benefits. Add them sparingly to avoid overpowering the mixture.
• Use a Thermometer: Monitor the temperature of your melted wax with a thermometer. This helps ensure the wax reaches the right temperature for your specific project.
• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Beeswax can release fumes when melted, so it's important to work in a well-ventilated space to avoid inhaling the fumes. This keeps your workspace safe and comfortable.

Where to Get Quality Beeswax?

The best source for high-quality beeswax is from local beekeepers who often sell various bee products beyond just honey. Supporting local helps maintain healthy populations of honeybees and other pollinators essential to our ecosystem.

What are your favorite ways to use beeswax?

Have you used it around the house for years, or is this your first go? Whatever the case may be, we wish you luck in your adventures. If you come up with exciting new ways to use beeswax, share a photo with us on Instagram! We always love seeing what you're up to.

Updated 3/24/2025