Are you a beekeeper with a lot of beeswax and are wondering what to do with it? A great way to use leftover beeswax is to render and use for creative projects like candles, salves, and lip balms. We’ll cover what you need to know when you render beeswax at home.
Gather Your Tools
You need the right tools for effective beeswax rendering. The most important piece of equipment is a double boiler because it prevents heat from damaging the wax. You'll also need a filter (preferably cheesecloth), a large measuring cup, a silicone mold, and wax paper. Some beekeepers prefer eco-friendly methods, such as using a solar-powered wax melter.
Clean the Wax
Once you've gathered all the necessary tools, you can start rendering the wax! First, you must clean the wax using hot water; this step quickens the melting process so you can remove debris, such as dead bees, dirt, and pollen. Place the beeswax in a clean container, and put that in hot water. Let the wax sit until the water cools, then remove the debris with a strainer.
Melt the Wax
After cleaning the wax, place it in the boiler or solar wax melter. The double boiler melts the wax slowly and evenly. The double boiler can use any heat source, such as a stove, to boil the water in the bottom pan. Add the beeswax to the top pan and stir frequently. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from boiling and burning. If the wax does burn, remove it from the heat source to avoid discoloration.
Filter the Wax
After fully melting the wax, filter it to remove remaining impurities. We suggest placing a cheesecloth over a large measuring cup to filter the wax and catch residue. After filtering the wax, pour it into your molds or onto wax paper to cool and solidify.
Store the Wax
Store your beeswax properly! We suggest keeping it cool and dry to avoid melting, discoloration, or fragrance loss. The best way to store beeswax is to wrap it in wax paper or place it in an airtight container. If you plan to use beeswax for candles or other projects, consider adding essential oils to give it a unique scent.
Rendering beeswax is a fascinating process you can do at home! Enjoy the benefits of this natural substance by following these simple steps and using the right equipment. If you prefer to skip the rendering process, check out Crystal's Honey for high-quality, ethically sourced bulk raw beeswax. Experience the purity and richness of Crystal's Honey beeswax today!