How to Render Beeswax in a Crockpot
Raw beeswax is a marvelous substance, but it requires some preparation before it can be used in your crafts and recipes. Rendering beeswax in a crockpot or slow cooker is an easy option for those with a small quantity of wax. While it takes a bit of time, this method is a safe and effective way to transform raw wax into a clean, usable product. In this guide, you’ll learn the basic steps and some helpful tips for the process.
As a beekeeper, I never underestimate the value of beeswax. And, I use various methods to clean beeswax – depending on the project I have in mind. Sometimes I combine several methods to get the purest end product.
Why Render Beeswax?
Rendering beeswax is a process where wax is melted and usually strained or filtered to remove honey residue, dirt and other types of hive debris.
Why does beeswax need to be rendered? Beeswax is made up of many different natural compounds and it absorbs “stuff” in the hive.
During the process of extracting honey – we try to separate the wax and honey. But, no matter how hard we try -there will still be some honey residues left.
If you are making homemade beeswax fire starters, purity is not a priority. However, if you want to make beeswax candles or body care products – you want to remove impurities.
Materials Needed
In this guide, we will render beeswax using a crockpot or slow cooker. This is a slow process – but that is okay.
When working with wax – slow and careful is the best option. Here are the items you need along with some paper towels etc.
- beeswax
- crockpot – slow cooker
- liner (optional)
- strainer material
- water
Raw Beeswax
In most cases, you will be rendering beeswax cappings. These are the little flakes of wax left over after the process of extracting honey.
The beekeeper who has several honey harvests throughout the season can store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to process the wax.
Or perhaps, you have a cube or block of beeswax that you are unsure of – it too can be rendered in the slow cooker. It will just take longer to melt.
Crockpot – Slow Cooker
Yes, I know that crockpot is a brand name for slow cookers. But, we have never called it anything else in my house – so please bear with me.
If you use a plastic crockpot liner, you may choose to use your regular kitchen appliance for beeswax rendering.
However, I highly recommend having one that is dedicated to wax crafting. They can often be found at local thrift stores – but basic models are rather inexpensive new.
Strainer Material
You also need some type of material that hot wax can flow through. But, something that has a small enough mesh to catch bits of trash (dirt, wood splinter and such).
A paint strainer bag is a good option, cheesecloth works well. In this case, I use what I have on hand. Old nylon curtains that I purchased at the thrift store and cut into large squares. Works great.
Water
You need enough water to fill the bottom of the slow cooker to a depth of approximately 2”. The exact amount of water needed depends on the size of the cooker you are using. Thank goodness – honey is water soluble.
Step by Step
Here are the basic steps – adjust as needed for your situation. For safety. is it always best to not leave your melting wax unattended (especially if you are doing this in your home).
You do not have to stand over it but have it somewhere that you would notice any problems with the appliance. I have a dedicated honey house for such projects but you may not.
1. Set up the crockpot on a level steady surface (you may wish to place wax paper or parchment paper down to protect surfaces – optional).
If you are using plastic liners – place one in the pot and spread it out nicely. Now for the strainer material. If using cut pieces of cheese cloth or nylon – be sure you have enough to come up and out of the bowl (not fall back in).
2. Add enough water to the pot to cover the bottom to a depth of 2 inches or so.
3. Now, add the beeswax you wish to render in the pot. Spread it out to a uniform depth.
4. Turn the crockpot on to the high setting and place the lid on top. Depending on the amount of beeswax you are working with, the size of the pot and the ambient temperature – your wax will begin to melt. This can take several hours. Mine usually stays in the pot all day 10-12 hours.
5. Once all of the wax is liquid (do not stir the mixture!) – take the lid off. You will see an amount of black, goopy stuff – this is often called “slumgum”.
Carefully, gather the edges of your strainer material together and lift it out of the crock pot. Dirt, debris etc will be contained in the material while hot wax drips back into the pot. When dripping stops – set this aside.
Now, unplug the cooker and let the liquid wax cool – undisturbed for several hours (overnight is fine).
When you return – a clean cake of beeswax will be on the surface. You can easily lift it out (extra easy if you used the plastic liner).
You will have dirty water in the bottom that contains dissolved honey, etc. Throw this out – do not feed it to bees – it can cause harm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using plastic liners in the crock pot, smooth them out as much as possible. It is better to have a few large folds around the circumference than many little wrinkles – this makes removing the final wax cake more difficult.
After lifting the strainer material and debris out of the pot of hot wax – do not disturb the hot wax. Let nature and gravity do it’s job – more debris may settle to the bottom with the water. Don’t worry about a few smudges on top – they usually just rub off!
Don’t rush the process. The color of beeswax varies due to several factors. But, you can darken wax by overheating it. Slow and steady is the ideal.
And, if you have a few drips here and there (because we all do), check out my tips for removing beeswax from surfaces.
Troubleshooting Tips
- wax not melting (check the temperature of your slow cooker – large pieces of wax take longer)
- debris in the end product – you may have to filter beeswax more than once – or use a tighter mesh
- difficulty remove wax cake – use a spatula to push down and gently release the wax
FAQs
Sure you can use your regular crockpot. Beeswax is edible. However, it is best to have a dedicated appliance for each purpose.
Plan on it taking 10-12 hours to melt beeswax in a slow cooker or crockpot. Times vary due to amount of wax and size of the crockpot.
Discard the water from the crockpot. Do not feed it to bees as it can cause harm.
More Ideas
Now that you have some fresh beeswax free of debris – what can you do with it?
Whip up some fresh beeswax food wraps. They can be a decorative addition to your kitchen and give you a natural way to protect food and use less plastic.
Did you know you can use beeswax for hair care? In small amounts, beeswax is a great addition to hair balms and you would want clean wax for that.
And, one project that really requires nice wax is making dipped beeswax candles. This traditional method of candle making requires clean wax or the wick will clog and not burn well.
Final Thoughts
Rendering beeswax in a crockpot is a straightforward and effective method for obtaining clean wax for your projects. By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a high-quality end product ready for use in various crafts and no impurities. Happy crafting!