Even our grandmothers knew how to make use of the natural product beeswax: even back then, people knew what nourishing properties the actual byproduct of honey production had to offer. But how is beeswax actually made, what properties does it have and what can it be used for?
How is beeswax produced?
Beeswax is produced solely by worker bees. They produce it when they are young, between twelve and eighteen days old. This is precisely when the animal's wax glands are at their most efficient and productive during their six-week lifespan. The bees produce the wax using their eight pairs of wax glands, which are located between the third and sixth abdominal rings of the bees. To do this, high-quality fatty acids and alcohols are converted into organic groups of substances in the glands and then transported in liquid form to the inter-ring pockets. This is where tiny white wax flakes are created. This process is also known as "sweating". The colorless wax flakes are then kneaded by the bees using their mouthparts and saliva and used to build honeycombs.
Which leather products benefit from being cared for with beeswax?
Beeswax is a natural substance that cares for and nourishes leather and provides it with everything it needs for a long life. However, not all leather is the same and requires the same treatment. Not only the tanning process, but also the sealing plays a decisive role in the type of care. So one thing is clear: not every leather care product is suitable for every type of leather.
Care products made from beeswax are suitable for all types of smooth leather as well as for synthetic leather. Hiking boots made from suede can also be restored to their former glory with the help of this natural product. Leather grease made from beeswax is not suitable for suede in most cases. But here, as in everything in life, exceptions make up the rule.
Leather grease: beeswax as a shoe care product
Generally speaking, you can use natural wax to care for all shoes. However, it is important to only apply a very thin layer of beeswax to the leather. If you overdo it, the tiny pores of the material can stick together. This means that the leather can no longer breathe and over time it loses its natural appearance and becomes brittle.
Leather grease: beeswax for saddles and bridles
Riding accessories also require attention and care. Products with natural beeswax, such as the leather balm from Emma Grün, are particularly well suited for this. Since saddles and bridles are particularly exposed to external environmental influences, weekly care is advisable. Only if the natural material is adequately cared for and nourished will it remain soft and supple. In equestrian sports, the positive effect also fulfills another factor: the safety aspect. This means that brittle and cracked areas can be prevented or detected early when caring for leather. Because what might only be visually significant on a sofa or leather jacket would end in disaster if a bridle or stirrup broke at full gallop.
Leather care: beeswax for furniture
Depending on the type of material, beeswax is also suitable for your leather furniture. If you are unsure, it is advisable to test the leather care product in advance on an area that is invisible to the eye. To avoid oversaturating the leather, the rule here is: less is more! Otherwise, apply sparingly and experience the benefits of natural care.
Leather care: beeswax for clothing
If the leather is suitable for care with beeswax, you should regularly treat your favorite pieces with the natural product. This way you will provide them with everything they need and can enjoy them every day. By the way: Don't worry about the distinctive smell that beeswax has. The leather balm from Emma Grün smells very pleasant thanks to the natural perfumes. And it doesn't contain any artificial fragrances.
What positive properties does beeswax have for leather?
As the name suggests, beeswax consists of wax. This means that leather can benefit from two positive properties: a balanced balance of re-greasing and moisture. The natural product also provides additional waterproofing. This means that the leather retains its breathability, but moisture and humidity cannot penetrate. However, the quality of the wax plays a key role here. Synthetically produced products tend to have a negative effect on leather. They clog the tiny pores of the leather, prevent it from breathing and make it brittle and cracked due to the reduced breathability. They also harm the environment and can also trigger allergies.
Sustainable care products with natural beeswax, such as those from Emma Grün, work without toxic chemicals. They work through a combination of various household remedies that our grandmothers used and appreciated for good reason. Accordingly, they achieve the best results without harming people or the environment and are therefore the perfect leather care for your favorite pieces.
Natalie, 
Sarah und über 105.000+ Andere lieben Emma Grün.
