FAQ: Hive Products


Beeswax candles

Q1: How do I prolong the burning time of a candle?

A1: Our candles are made from 100% natural beeswax which has a long burn time and cleans the air as it is used. To ensure an even and slow burn for any beeswax candle, keep the wick trimmed to 1/4 inch. Trim the wick immediately after burning, while it is still soft.

Q2: Why does my candle look dusty?

A2: Bloom is a whitish film that appears on beeswax candles over time. It is a process where the wax’s natural oils migrate to the outside of a candle. Bloom makes candles appear dull and powdery, but a hair dryer can be used to restore their shine.

Q3: At what temperature does beeswax melt?

A3: If you’re looking to DIY your own beeswax products, know that the melting point of beeswax is 62 to 64°C and the flash point is 204°C.

Beeswax food wraps

Q4: What is the benefit of using beeswax food wraps and what can they be used for?

A4: Food wraps are reusable, environmentally friendly alternatives to disposable plastic kitchen products. Use wraps to cover dishes and containers, or to wrap foods like sandwiches, fruit, vegetables, cheese, and much more. Don’t use on raw meat or expose to high heat during regular use.

Q5: How do I use my food wraps?

A5: Cover the item with a wrap and mold it around the edges until it is in the desired shape. Hold the wrap in place and warm it with your hands until the edges of the wrap stick to themselves. Use an elastic band to hold the wrap in place if desired.

Q6: How do I clean them?

A6: Food wraps can be washed in cool water with a small amount of mild soap and hung to dry. Beeswax is naturally antibacterial, and wraps can be used for a year before replacing.

Q7: How can I extend the longevity of a food wrap?

A7: To refresh a wrap that has lost its adhesiveness, heat it in the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment (not waxed!) paper and lie the wrap on it. Place in a 350°F oven for 5 to 10 seconds at a time, checking in between, until the beeswax has re-melted. Quickly remove from the baking sheet while the wax is still melted, and air dry until the wax has solidified again.

Propolis tincture

Q8: What is propolis and what do bees do with it?

A8: Propolis is an antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal tree resin collected by honey bees for a variety of uses in their hives. These include: structural repairs, waterproofing, and hygienic uses.

Q9: How do you make the tincture?

A9: We collect scrapings of propolis and soak the pieces in 95% alcohol for 5 months to make our tincture. The propolis dissolves and remaining bits of wax are strained off, leaving only the liquid to be bottled.

Q10: What is it used for?

A10: Propolis tincture can be used for sore throats, cold sores, and as a preventative measure when you start to feel a cold coming on.

Check out all of these products and more in our online store!