Beeswax, a natural choice for maintaining wooden tableware
In this article, we'll look at how beeswax can restore shine and strength to a wooden product.
Beeswax is a good, natural and ecological product for maintaining any wooden product you buy from our store.
Anne-Laure Compain
The history and manufacture of beeswax
How is beeswax made?
Beeswax is a natural substance produced by worker bees.
Worker bees have a gland that enables them to secrete wax, which is then used to build or repair the alveoli in the hive. It is in these cells that pollen and honey are stored, and where bees are born and grow. This is why beeswax is essential to the colony's survival.
From the beehive to handicrafts, a history that goes back to Antiquity
Beeswax has always been used, and for many different purposes.
- The Egyptians used beeswax to embalm their dead
- The Greeks made their amphorae watertight with beeswax
- The Romans used wax tablets for writing.
- In the Middle Ages, beeswax was used to create religious icons and as a seal for letters and documents.
- Today, beeswax is used to make candles, to treat wood, and in food and cosmetics.
How is beeswax harvested?
Harvesting beeswax is a very delicate process, and must be done with the utmost respect for the bees. It is generally harvested at the same time as the honey. To do this, beekeepers remove the drawers from the hives and remove the wax.
The wax is then purified to remove all traces of impurities and honey.
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Why is beeswax so interesting for wood care?
Composition of beeswax
Beeswax is 100% natural. It's made up of esters, fatty acids, propolis and hydrocarbons.
All these natural components are non-toxic, enabling beeswax to be used for food.
They provide beeswax with numerous benefits and uses.
Water resistance
Beeswax naturally repels water and is water-repellent. It can be used to protect certain objects from water.
On the surface of wood, beeswax creates a barrier that protects it from water and humidity. This barrier prevents the wood from warping or cracking.
This is why beeswax was used by the Greeks to seal their amphorae.
Nourishing for wood
When applied to wood, beeswax nourishes it deep down and keeps it in good condition. It creates a protective layer on the surface of the wood, giving it a shiny appearance and bringing out its natural beauty.
Protects against stains
Beeswax, with its smooth surface, will protect wood from food stains and liquids such as coffee or wine.
If a liquid is poured onto a wooden surface coated with beeswax, the liquid will bead up and not be absorbed by the wood.
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Steps to care for wooden crockery with beeswax
Above are two photos of the care of a kuksa with beeswax. The photo on the left is before applying the wax and the photo on the right is afterwards.
Wash the surface to be treated
The first step is to clean your wooden tableware. Use lukewarm water and mild soap to remove food residues and bacteria. Rinse and dry your wooden product thoroughly.
Make sure your product is not damp before applying the beeswax.
Why use warm water?
- Hot water will expand the wood and damage it.
- Cold water will not remove food residues.
What mild soap should I use?
To wash your wooden dishes, use a natural, non-chemical soap. You can use a natural soap with almond milk and honey, for example.
Prepare the beeswax
If you're using block wax, you'll need to melt it in a bain-marie before you can use it.
If you have beeswax mixed with mineral oil, you don't need to heat it to use it.
There's one thing you should be aware of: if you buy beeswax in jar form, make sure it's food-safe for use on your wooden tableware. Some waxes are mixed with solvents or chemical compounds that are not at all food-safe. These types of wax are designed to maintain wooden furniture or floors.
Applying beeswax
To apply beeswax to your wooden crockery, use a clean, soft, lint-free cloth (this means your cloth won't shed bits as you use it). You can also use a brush or a clean foam sponge.
Apply the beeswax to the entire surface of the wood.
Allow to dry
Now let the wood absorb the beeswax for several minutes. The resting time varies according to your wax and wood.
Finishing
Once the wood has finished absorbing the beeswax, use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess wax from the surface of your wooden tableware. Then polish the wood with your cloth for a smooth, shiny finish.
Example 1: caring for a kuksa
Example 2: care for a wooden cutting board
How I felt after using beeswax:
- Beeswax mixed with mineral oil is easier to use because you don't need to heat it.
- When you apply beeswax to wood, you can immediately see the difference: it's shinier and the nuances stand out more.
- To the touch, you can feel the wax depositing a protective layer on the surface of the wood.
- I put water on the board once it had been waxed, and the water formed beads on the surface of the wood and glided over it: a success!
Advantages and disadvantages of beeswax
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
100% natural Beeswax is naturally created by bees and harvested from beehives. It contains no chemicals or additives. | Regular maintenance Beeswax is a long-lasting treatment that needs to be applied regularly to keep the wood protected, shiny and water-repellent. |
Natural protection Beeswax naturally protects wood from moisture, stains and scratches. | Slow drying Beeswax takes longer to dry than oil. So you need to be patient every time you care for it. |
Natural beauty Beeswax allows wood to regain its beauty, shades and appearance without changing its color. | Odor Beeswax has a strong honey-like odor that may bother some people. But it quickly fades. |
Easy application Beeswax is easily applied with a clean, soft cloth. | Price Good quality beeswax can be more expensive than other treatments. |
Versatility Beeswax can be used on many surfaces without any problem: kitchen utensils, cups, cutting boards, plates, etc. | Harvesting Harvesting beeswax means destroying honeycomb and disturbing bee colonies. But alternatives now exist. |
Harvesting beeswax means destroying honeycomb and disturbing bee colonies. But alternatives now exist.
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Anne-Laure Compain
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Our spring game is here! 🌸
To celebrate spring, we're offering you the chance to win the kuksa pictured opposite. A unique model of kuksa, worth 150€.
The winner will be chosen at random and contacted by email on April 30!
To celebrate spring, win the kuksa in the photo. A unique model worth 150€.
