A little care at the end of the season means your gear is clean, intact and ready when the bees wake up. Here's how to store suits, veils and tools properly over winter.
Clean everything first
Never store dirty gear. Wash your suit and veil (see how to wash a bee suit) and make sure everything is completely dry — damp storage invites mildew and odours that can linger into spring.
Storing suits and veils
Store suits loosely folded or hung in a breathable cotton bag or cupboard — avoid sealed plastic, which traps moisture. Keep veils where the mesh won't be crushed or punctured. A cool, dry, dark spot protects fabric from fading and weakening.
Keep pests away
Wax and propolis residue can attract pests, which is another reason to store gear clean. Keep everything off the floor and away from where rodents or wax moths might reach stored comb.
Tools and smoker
Clean and dry your hive tool to prevent rust, and empty and clean the smoker fully so it's ready to light next season. A quick inventory now tells you what to replace before spring rather than in a rush.