How to Use Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wrap is a great sustainable alternative to plastic wrap or cling film. Beeswax wrap is reusable which means, not only is it great for the planet, but it can actually save you money in the long run.
Just wash & reuse the beeswax wrap. Making the switch can be an adjustment for some consumers just because they’re not 100% sure how to use beeswax wrap. Fear not! I’m here to help.
I’ve been using this wonderful stuff for about four years now.
I’ve also found some great videos that show you how to use your own beeswax wraps.
Hopefully these visual demonstrations help make your eco-friendly swap reusable beeswax wraps easy.
What exactly is beeswax wrap?
Beeswax wrap is typically made with a piece of cotton fabric (I prefer organic cotton) that is coated with a mixture of natural materials including beeswax, jojoba oil, & tree resin. Beeswax wraps are antibacterial and great for preserving food when used correctly.
Beeswax food wraps are a great sustainable swap because they are an alternative to plastic cling wrap which reduces single-use plastics and they are a great way to save money! When you start using beeswax wrap you won't have to purchase plastic wrap or plastic bags anymore.
This post does contain affiliate links and The Honest Consumer may receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase. Our commission is at no additional expense to you!
How to Use beeswax wrap?
It’s simple. Just wrap the beeswax wrap tightly around the food item you’re trying to preserve.
You have to use the warmth of your hands to shape the beeswax wrap tightly around the food. At room temperature, they may feel a bit stiff but you can use your hands to warm up the wrap enough to make it pliable.
For proper care of your reusable beeswax food wrap, you should wash it with cool water and mild dish soap, more on that below!
The warmth helps the wrap bend and shape more easily. Once you shape the beeswax wrap around the item it should stick to itself.
Check out the videos above on wrapping cheese and celery.
These are a few good demonstrations.
What foods can you use beeswax wrap with?
Beeswax wrap is great for covering cut fruit, veggies, cheeses, bread, and the tops of bowls to protect food items!
I commonly use the larger sheets of beeswax wrap to cover bowls and a small wrap to preserve lemons or limes when I don’t use the full fruit in a dish.
They are great for packing lunches. You can wrap sandwiches in beeswax wrap and use it on the go.
Avoid using beeswax wrap on meat or sticky/moist fruits. Avoid using your reusable food wraps on hot food, as the beeswax and pine resin will soften and melt away from the fabric at a high heat. You'll also want to avoid using these wraps in the microwave, dishwasher, or hot water.
Can you use beeswax wrap with meat?
No, I’d stick to cheeses, fruits, and veggies and the foods in the list above. It's best to avoid using these wraps on raw meat. For a sustainable swap to store raw meat, try glass containers.
Where to buy beeswax wrap?
If you're ready to start using beeswax wrap then these are a few places you can buy them! As beeswax wrap has become more popular you can sometimes find it at stores like Whole Foods or try checking your local farmers market. You can also try shopping at your local zero waste store for beeswax wrap.
ZeroWasteStore
Since launching Zero Waste Store has become a trusted platform for sustainable brands, and a community of individuals making a positive impact on our planet.
Sustainable shoppers will discover a wide range of zero waste products including kitchen products. Their beeswax wraps range from $7-$26 depending on the size and quantity the consumer is purchasing.
3Huggers
3Huggers is a family owned brand that works hard to create items with a focus on sustainability, practicality and beauty. They are a Canadian based business and offer beeswax wrap sets for around $20.
EarthHero
Earthhero is a sustainable marketplace that has a wide range of sustainable goods. Earthhero offers beeswax wraps from $6-$42.
I purchase most of my beeswax wrap from the family owned business, 3huggers or the eco-friendly marketplace EarthHero. Both have a variety of styles and different sizes consumers can choose from.
A lot of main stream stores have also started carrying beeswax wrap as it's gained popularity. Sometimes you can find this sustainable swap at grocery stores such as Whole Foods, Trader Joes, and Target.
There are also a lot of online tutorials if you want to make your own diy beeswax wraps. I enjoy supporting small sustainable businesses which is why I chose to purchase from these brands.
How to Clean Beeswax Wrap?
The ability to clean and reuse beeswax wrap is one of the best parts about this eco-friendly product.
Most brands recommend using cold water and mild soap. I usually run it under cold water, add a dab of soap, and use my finger to rub it around the beeswax wrap.
Then I rinse using more cold water and lay flat to dry. You can fold it on a dish rack to dry if you have one on your counter.
Avoid hot water because it can cause the beeswax to melt and effect how it preserves future foods.
In the video you’ll see she uses a light gentle dish scrubber to scrub the wrap, that is okay too.
I just prefer to use my fingers so I can be gentle with my wrap and make it last as long as possible!
How to Store Beeswax Wrap
When not in use, store your beeswax wrap in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. To keep your wraps pliable and easy to work with, store them folded. This will also help prevent wrinkles and creases. I keep mine in a kitchen drawer, and if they're a little stiff I warm them with my hands and then wipe them down with damp cloth.
Be sure to check the package label for specific instructions if you purchased your wrap from a store or online market. It’s always important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper use and care of your beeswax wrap.
If you need to revive old wraps, pop them in the oven at low heat to warm up the wax, which will melt and redistribute.
The best part about using beeswax wraps is all that you save: money because you're not re-buying plastic wrap, the environment because you're not using single-use plastic baggies or wraps, and you're eliminating food waste by preserving leftovers rather than tossing them!
I hope this post has been helpful and I’ve answered all of your questions regarding how to use beeswax wrap to help reduce your plastic waste! Not only is this sustainable swap great for your kitchen, but it can also make a great zero waste holiday gift for your friends and family!
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