Beeswax Rendering: How to Process and Purify Raw Beeswax

Beeswax Rendering: How to Process and Purify Raw Beeswax

Introduction: Why Render Beeswax?

Beeswax rendering is the process of melting, filtering, and purifying raw beeswax from honeycombs, beeswax cappings, or burr comb. Whether you are a beekeeper, candle maker, or natural skincare enthusiast, properly rendered beeswax ensures a cleaner, more usable product for crafting candles, balms, and polishes. This guide outlines the step-by-step process to effectively process and purify raw beeswax.

What is Raw Beeswax?

Raw beeswax is the unprocessed wax collected from a beehive. It often contains additional ingredients, such as:

  • Honey residues
  • Pollen
  • Propylis (bee glue)
  • Debris from the hive

Rendering removes these impurities, leaving behind clean beeswax that can be used in various applications.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rendering Beeswax

Step 1: Collecting Raw Beeswax

The first step in rendering beeswax is to gather wax from the hive. This can come from:

  • Wax cappings removed during honey extraction
  • Burr comb (excess wax built by bees inside the hive)
  • Old brood comb (though this wax is darker)

For the best quality, use cappings wax, as it is the cleanest and lightest in color.

Step 2: Preparing the Beeswax for Melting

  • Remove as much honey as possible from the raw wax by rinsing it with cool water.
  • Break large chunks into smaller pieces to allow for even melting.
  • Allow the wax to dry completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Melting the Wax

There are multiple methods for melting beeswax, but the safest and most effective methods include:

Double Boiler Method (Recommended for Small Batches)

  • Fill a large pot with a few inches of water and place a smaller pot or bowl inside.
  • Add raw beeswax to the smaller pot and heat gently until fully melted.
  • Keep the temperature between 140-160°F to prevent scorching.

Slow Cooker Method (For Larger Batches)

  • Place raw beeswax in a slow cooker set on low heat.
  • Allow it to melt slowly over a few hours.

Solar Melting (Eco-Friendly Option)

  • Place raw beeswax in a black container and leave it in direct sunlight.
  • This method takes longer but is completely energy-efficient.

*Note, you can get quite creative with DIY solar melting. A neighbouring beekeeper we know renders about 60lbs at a time with a large black metal trough (that he put a settling tank and tap underneath). The lid is made of the frame of an old door and plexiglass.

Step 4: Filtering Impurities

Once the beeswax is fully melted, it needs to be filtered to remove dirt and debris.

Filtering Process:

  • Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a clean container.
  • Pour the melted wax through the strainer to catch impurities.
  • For extra filtration, use multiple layers of cheesecloth or an old cotton t-shirt.

Some beekeepers filter the wax multiple times to ensure a high level of purity.

Step 5: Cooling and Storing Purified Beeswax

  • Pour the filtered wax into silicone molds, muffin tins, or a lined shallow pan.
  • Allow it to cool at room temperature until fully hardened.
  • Store the beeswax in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight.

Tips for Better Beeswax Rendering

  • Never overheat beeswax as it can burn at temperatures above 185°F.
  • Use a dedicated pot for beeswax, as it can be difficult to clean afterward.
  • If your wax still appears cloudy, repeat the filtering process.

Uses for Purified Beeswax

Once rendered, beeswax can be used for a variety of applications, including:

  • Candle making
  • Lip balms and skincare products
  • Wood and leather polish
  • Food wraps (beeswax wraps)
  • Soap making

Conclusion

Rendering raw beeswax is a simple yet essential process for ensuring high-quality, purified wax for various uses. By following proper melting, filtering, and cooling techniques, you can transform raw hive wax into a clean and usable material. Whether you are a beekeeper, DIY enthusiast, or candle maker, properly processed beeswax will elevate the quality of your final products.

Why Our Beeswax is Better

Looking for high-quality, 100% pure Canadian beeswax candles? All of our beeswax products are hand-poured and sold in wholesale and small quantities. We have perfect our wax filtering process over the past decade and now offer a consistent high-quality product.

Shop now and experience the difference.

About Prairie Sun Beeswax

Prairie Sun Beeswax is a family-owned business in the Canadian prairies, producing pure beeswax and honey for over three generations. We render Manitoba and Ontario beeswax and all of our beeswax products sold are 100% Canadian. What started as a small beekeeping operation in 1962 has grown into a thriving farm with 1,500 hives. Since launching our commercial beeswax rendering business in 2014, we’ve perfected our filtering process to deliver the highest quality wax to our customers. In addition, our commercial beeswax rendering process is powered by a large solar array that we installed behind the honey house in 2017.

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