Frequently Asked Questions

Below is our guide on how to use Pollen & Hive beeswax wraps. For additional information on shipping, refunds and privacy, please read our Store Policies.

What are Pollen & Hive Beeswax Wraps for?
Our beeswax wraps are the kind substitutes to plastic cling film. We say kind because they can help lessen plastic waste that end up in our landfills, surroundings and oceans. Our wraps can also be "refreshed" after frequent use, giving them and the resources in them a second life for as long as possible. This helps counter today's norm of businesses intentionally creating a limited shelf life to products and creating a throwaway culture.

Use our beeswax wraps as you would a plastic wrap— cover bowls, jars, trays, etc. or use them as food storage; They're great wrappers for bread, cookies, sandwiches, vegetables, fruits, etc.

As soon as you get accustomed to them, you'll also find that the uses are as varied as your imagination— you just have to be familiar with the general principle on how to care for them. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for more tips and tricks! 

Which size of wraps do you recommend?
This varies from person to person. Below is a general overview, but don't be limited by these!

• Small (8"x8"): for half slices of fruits and vegetables; and as toppers for small jars, glasses, bottles, etc.
• Medium (10"x10"): for covering saucers and standard bowls; for wrapping half bread slices, burrito wraps, and even non-food items such as soaps while travelling
• Large (12"x12"): for wrapping sandwiches; making funnels and pouches; covering standard plates
• Extra Large (14"x14"): for huge square pans, casseroles, loaves; for creating flower bouquets
  
  

Are beeswax wraps safe to use?
Yes, but do observe proper use and care.

Our wraps are inherently anti-bacterial and non-toxic because of its natural properties. Made with 100% cotton and infused with ingredients such as beeswax, foodsafe pine resin and jojoba oil, our wraps are made in a home kitchen that occasionally handles nuts. Please don't use our wraps if you're allergic to any of these.

Also, our wraps are highly flammable. Do not use them in the microwave, oven or dishwasher. Do not place and store near direct sources of heat.

Anything that I cannot use a beeswax wrap with?
Please don't use them with raw meat and fish for safety reasons. Highly acidic food items are also a no-no as the acid could destroy the wrap. We also don't recommend using it in direct contact with butter and anything that's buttered. When in doubt, use a container instead to prevent direct contact, then cover the container with your beeswax wrap.

Why are there pigments on my wrap?
Yellow to brown pigments are normal due to the wraps’ natural properties.

My beeswax wraps are too stiff! What do I do?
Beeswax wraps become stiff in cooler temperature. If you need them to be extra sticky and pliable enough to take any form and shape, just scrunch the wrap into a ball in your hand before use. The rationale behind this is, the warmth of your hands will soften the wax but not melt it entirely, and in so doing will spread the stickiness to the rest of the wrap. 
 

How do I seal my wraps?
Seal edges by sticking the wrap to itself, pressing it with the the tips of your fingers. Again, the warmth of your hands will lend some stickiness to the area and help with the sealing.

How do I get rid of the sticky feeling and the residue?
It's normal to find beeswax wraps weird to the touch at first use. They're sticky so they can do their job, but they fade just right with use (either that, or you get used to it!). For residue on hands and surfaces, wash it off with warm water and soap.
 

Is it okay to put beeswax wraps in the freezer?
Yes, for short-term storage. Once you do take them out, expect them to be really stiff. Allow some time to let them soften down to room temperature before unwrapping. 

Are beeswax wraps washable?
Absolutely! You can wash them by hand but only with only cold water and mild/diluted soap. Gently scrub if needed. Never ever run them under hot water, or else the beeswax will crumble. When using running water, be sure there's a steady stream going in terms of temperature; The last thing you'd want is a surprise gush of hot water that could ruin your wrap. Air dry after washing.

How long can beeswax wraps last?
With proper care and regular maintenance, our wraps can last for at least six months to a year, or more. You can "refresh" them for as long as there is beeswax in them.

How do I mend old wraps and make them new again?
All you need is an iron and two parchment papers in a size bigger than your beeswax wrap. Place your old wrap in between the parchment papers. Set your iron to low-medium heat (with the steam off) and run it on top of the parchment paper where your beeswax wrap is. This should melt the beeswax instantly, and you can continue ironing so that the wax is spread to the rest of the wrap, especially where the fold marks are. Try not to push a lot of the wax out of the wrap when you iron. Remove top parchment paper when done and let your beeswax wrap dry.

We recommend keeping the parchment papers for your next refresh sessions! No need to toss them away or clean excess wax.