Once upon a time we used a lot of single use plastics. From plastic bags, to plastic wrap, to plastic containers. I’m glad to say that those days have passed. It has been a slow transition to reusable more natural solutions. One of my favorites has been our homemade beeswax wraps.
Beeswax wraps are made with non toxic ingredients and they last. These wraps are easy to care for, practical and beetuiful. When wraps begin to show signs of use they can be refreshed with a second coating of the recipe below or simply composted.
I Use these Wraps to:
- Cover leftovers
- contain separate items in my kiddo’s lunch box
- wrap fresh bread
Beeswax Food Wraps Recipe:
Materials / Ingredients:
- 1/3c beeswax (local is best)
- 3 Tbsp pine rosin
- Tbsp jojoba oil
- 100% cotton fabric cut to 10” x 10” or desired size
Instructions:
Melt the pine rosin, beeswax and jooba oil together in a double boiler. I like to use a Pyrex measuring cup in place of a double boiler and simply place it in a pot of simmering water.
Stir melted ingredients to incorporate. Cover a heat proof surface layering newspaper and then parchment paper before topping with your fabric. Using a paint brush dedicated to food wraps, brush the mixture onto the cotton fabric in a thin layer. Once saturated with the mixture, cover with another layer of parchment, sandwiching the fabric. Iron on low to medium to distribute the mixture evenly across the fabric. Let cool and recut any frayed edges. This mixture can be cleaned off of surfaces using rubbing alcohol.
How to care for your beeswax wraps:
Simply wash in cool water using soap sparingly and hang to dry. Wraps are not to be used with raw meats or at high temperature.
Notes:
- What is pine rosin? Pine rosin is a natural substance derived from coniferous trees. It has many uses, including adhesives/grip enhancers. It is classified as a tackifier and gives these beeswax wraps their ability to hold on to the material they are wrapped around or to themself.
- Why beeswax? Beeswax is a natural material that helps the wax wraps stay firm.
- How do I purchase beeswax? The best way to purchase beeswax is to connect with a local beekeeper to ensure you are getting quality wax. Why is this an issue? All beeswax is not considered equal. Often beeswax can contain chemicals used in hive treatments or from plant residues brought back to the hive by the bees. By purchasing from your local beekeeper you can ask questions about the beeswax origins and make informed decisions. If you would like to purchase from us directly, please see our store.
- Temperature matters. These wraps work best at room temperature. If you feel you are having difficulty molding the wrap simply allow them to warm in your hand.
Can any other type of oil be used, such as olive oil?
Like, why jojoba?
I like that almond oil has vitamine E which is a natrally occuring preservative. This extends the life of the wrap.