BeesWax wraps are an eco-friendly and reusable alternative to plastic wraps that help you keep food fresh without contributing to plastic waste. To ensure that your wraps serve you well for a long time, it’s essential to take good care of them. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly maintain your BeesWax wraps to maximize their lifespan and effectiveness.
1. Cleaning Your BeesWax Wraps
Proper cleaning is key to maintaining the quality and stickiness of your BeesWax wraps. Follow these simple steps:
- Use Cold Water: Wash your wraps in cool or lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can melt the wax coating and reduce its effectiveness.
- Gentle Soap: Use a mild, alcohol-free dish soap. Harsh chemicals can degrade the wax coating and impact the wrap's performance.
- Hand Wash Only: Gently scrub your wraps with a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid scrubbing too hard or using abrasive materials that can damage the surface.
2. Drying Your Wraps
After washing, allow your wraps to air dry. The best way to do this is to hang them over a drying rack or lay them flat on a clean surface. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as excessive heat can cause the wax to melt.
3. Proper Storage of BeesWax Wraps
Storing your wraps correctly is crucial for keeping them in good shape:
- Keep Them Flat or Rolled: Store your wraps in a drawer, either flat or gently rolled. Avoid folding them too tightly, as this can create creases that weaken the wax coating.
- Avoid Hot Places: Keep your wraps away from hot areas like radiators, ovens, or direct sunlight. High temperatures can cause the wax to melt, reducing the wrap’s effectiveness.
4. Do’s and Don’ts of Using BeesWax Wraps
To get the most out of your BeesWax wraps, it’s important to know what you can and can’t do with them:
- Avoid High Heat: Do not use BeesWax wraps in the microwave, oven, or dishwasher, as the heat will damage the wax.
- Not Suitable for Raw Meat: BeesWax wraps are not recommended for covering raw meat or fish due to hygiene concerns.
- Do Not Cut on Them: Avoid using your wraps as a cutting surface to prevent damaging the wax coating.
5. Re-waxing Your Wraps
With time and use, the wax coating on your wraps may wear off. If you notice that your wraps are losing their stickiness, you can refresh them at home by re-waxing:
- Use BeesWax Pellets or Bars: You can re-wax your wraps by evenly spreading melted beeswax over the surface and heating it gently in the oven at low temperature. This will rejuvenate the coating and extend the life of your wraps.
6. The End of the Wrap’s Life Cycle
When your wraps finally reach the end of their life, don’t toss them out! BeesWax wraps are compostable and biodegradable. You can cut them into strips and add them to your compost bin, or use them as fire starters for a barbecue or fireplace.
Conclusion
BeesWax wraps are an excellent, sustainable choice for reducing your plastic use and keeping food fresh. With proper care, these wraps can last up to a year or even longer, making them a valuable addition to any eco-conscious kitchen. By following these care tips, you’ll ensure your BeesWax wraps stay in great condition and continue to be a reliable, plastic-free food storage solution.
Switching to BeesWax wraps is a small change that makes a big difference. Take care of them, and they’ll take care of your food – and the planet!
