How to Store Beeswax Properly to Extend Its Shelf Life
Introduction: Why Proper Storage of Beeswax Matters
Beeswax is a durable and long-lasting natural product used in candle making, skincare, and crafting. While beeswax does not spoil or expire, improper storage can affect its quality, texture, and usability. Understanding the best practices for storing beeswax helps maintain its purity and prevents contamination. This guide covers the best methods to store beeswax to ensure it remains fresh and effective for years.
Does Beeswax Expire?
Beeswax does not have an expiration date, but it can degrade if exposed to extreme conditions. Factors like heat, moisture, and air exposure can cause it to lose its effectiveness. Proper storage ensures that beeswax retains its beneficial properties indefinitely.
Best Practices for Storing Beeswax
1. Keep Beeswax in a Cool, Dry Place
- Store beeswax away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Ideal storage temperature: Below 80°F (27°C).
- Avoid storing near radiators, stoves, or in hot attics to prevent softening or melting.
2. Use Airtight Containers
- Keep beeswax in sealed glass jars, plastic containers, or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent contamination.
- Airtight storage prevents dust, dirt, and strong odours from being absorbed.
3. Avoid Excessive Moisture Exposure
- Beeswax is hydrophobic, but impurities in unfiltered wax can attract moisture and cause mold.
- Store in a dry environment with low humidity.
- If you live in a humid climate, consider using silica gel packets in the storage container.
4. Wrap before storing
- Use parchment paper, plastic, wax paper, or cotton cloth to wrap large beeswax blocks before placing them in storage.
- This prevents sticking and keeps the wax clean.
5. Store Away from Strong Odours
- Beeswax easily absorbs scents from essential oils, spices, and chemicals.
- Keep it separate from scented products, perfumes, or household cleaners.
How to Store Different Forms of Beeswax
|
Form of Beeswax |
Best Storage Method |
|
Beeswax Blocks |
Wrap in parchment paper and store in a cool, dry place. |
|
Beeswax Pellets/Pastilles |
Keep in airtight containers to prevent sticking. |
|
Beeswax Sheets |
Lay flat or roll and wrap in paper to prevent creasing. |
|
Beeswax in Skincare or Balms |
Store in small tins or glass jars to preserve freshness. |
How to Restore Old Beeswax
Over time, beeswax may develop a white powdery film known as bloom. This is a natural occurrence and does not indicate spoilage. To restore its original texture:
- Gently buff the surface with a soft cloth to remove bloom.
- Re-melt the wax using a double boiler to refresh its consistency.
Conclusion: Proper Storage Ensures Long-Lasting Beeswax
When stored correctly, beeswax can last indefinitely while maintaining its quality and usability. Keeping it in cool, dry conditions, sealed containers, and away from strong odors ensures that it remains fresh for candles, skincare, and DIY projects.
Where to Buy and Store High-Quality Beeswax
For the best results, purchase 100% pure, unprocessed beeswax from reputable suppliers and store it properly to maintain its effectiveness for years to come.
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.