All Sherriff suits and jackets are specially designed so that they are easy to clean. Take care of your suit and your suit will take care of you for many years to come.
When should you wash your beekeeping suit?
We recommend washing your suit after every visit to the apiary. This helps prevent the spread of bee diseases and prolong the life of your garments.
We also recommend a deep clean before putting your garments away for winter.
How to wash your beekeeping suit, jacket and hoods
You will need:
- Soda crystals
- Unscented detergent
- A large bucket or tub
- A washing machine
- If doing a deep clean, a plastic bag( big enough to fit your suit or jacket), and a freezer.
Step 1
- Remove the hood (and never put your hood in the washing machine!)
- Check all your pockets
- Close all hook and loop fasteners, and zips.
Optional for a deep clean
Remove propolis/beeswax – see below for instructions.
Step 2
Fill a large tub or bucket with soda crystal solution:
- For a deep clean: 4 cups of soda crystals to 2 litres of warm water
- For a regular wash: 2 cups of soda crystals to 2 litres of warm water
Step 3
Soak both the suit/jacket and the hood. Leave overnight for best results.
Step 4
Remove the hood and rinse it thoroughly. A hose comes in handy here. Hang to dry on the line (never in the tumble dryer or near a heat source)
Step 5
With the hood removed, place suit or jacket in the washing machine on a 30 degree cycle. Use unscented detergent and don’t use fabric conditioner (it can negatively affect your garment’s breathability, plus strong smells can easily disorientate and confuse bees).
Step 6
Hang to dry on the line (never in the tumble dryer or near a heat source)
Step 7
Make sure your garment is completely dry before storing to prevent mould.
Removing propolis and beeswax
Propolis and beeswax can clog up your washing machine. If any propolis gets stuck in your machine it may also stain your other clothes. So it’s a good idea to remove propolis and beeswax after every few apiary visits, or if your suit is particularly covered.
Step 1
Place garment in a plastic bag.
Step 2
Leave in the freezer, ideally overnight.
Step 3
When completely chilled, you can flick off the wax and propolis.
Repairs and refurbishment
Sherriff suits, jackets and hoods are extremely durable, and with proper care, should last for years and years.
If your garment does get damaged or start to wear out, our Repair and Refurbish service can get your garment back to its original level of protection. And for a fraction of the cost of a new suit or hood. So you can stay safe, extend the life of your suit, and keep things out of landfill for longer.