BetterComb - Fully Drawn Comb
*Shown assembled in wood frames. Please select the option that best suits your needs*
BetterComb is a completely drawn comb made of food-grade, virgin, synthetic wax, similar in composition to beeswax. Unlike regular foundation, BetterComb does not need to be drawn out by the bees. When installed into a deep frame (not included), the frame is ready for the bees to use. BetterComb provide bees instant access to space for brood or nectar without needing time and resources to draw out comb.
There are several advantages to using drawn comb over standard foundation. BetterComb can significantly benefit both packages and nucleus colonies. When packages are first installed in a hive, they must draw out comb before raising brood. By allowing immediate egg laying, BetterComb encourages rapid brood production, which increases the colony’s productivity. Similarly, when nucleus colonies are first installed in their hives, the bees may begin storing nectar in the brood nest of the nuc, as it may be the only space available. If the brood area becomes plugged with nectar, the colony’s swarming impulse can be triggered. BetterComb gives bees built-out space to expand.
BetterComb is sold in 10 packs of comb similar to a 10-pack of foundation. It needs to be installed into a groove top wooden frame. The combs are 17" by 8" to fit most wood frames. However, BetterComb cuts easily with a knife to reduce the size if needed. Combs can be embedded into fully wired frames, or pressed and pinned into frames. The wired frames are most versatile and can be used in hot climates as well and with honey. Pinned frames should only be used in cool climates, and in locations where bees will use primarily for brood. Instructions for both methods are included, but parts and tools are not included.
Shipping Alert
While this product is fairly stable, it may freeze and crack, crumble or otherwise be damaged if shipped below 5 C. It is W&H's preference to not ship below this temperature. Only if specifically instructed will this item be shipped during periods when freezing is possible. The buyer will assume all risks and no returns will be accepted due to damaged wax foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is BetterComb made from?
BetterComb is produced from synthetic wax similar in chemical composition to beeswax. The wax is a mixture of ingredients synthesized from mineral and plant sources, and contains no animal fats or byproducts.
Is it safe?
Yes. BetterComb is produced in accordance with FDA requirements for food contact and is produced in an ISO 22000-certified facility. All ingredients are food or pharmaceutical grade, and do not include any toxic or harmful ingredients.
How do bees use BetterComb?
Bees use BetterComb as they use any other comb once they become acquainted with it. Queens will lay eggs and raise brood in the BetterComb, and workers will store pollen and nectar in it. Bees will repair and adjust the comb just as they do with real comb.
How big are the cells?
BetterComb has 5.35-5.4mm cells, which is considered a normal cell size for brood frames.
Can I mix it with other frames?
Yes. There are certain configurations that work best when mixing with other frames. Alternating frames is not recommended.
Ideally, use all BetterComb frames. If you are using more than half older drawn comb, we suggest placing the BetterComb evenly on either side of the older drawn comb. If using more than half BetterComb, then place BetterComb in the center using older drawn frames equally spaced on the outside. If using BetterComb with undrawn foundation (wax, plastic, etc,), we suggest placing at least five BetterComb frames in the center and the foundations on the outside. Do not checkerboard the frames.
Why Can't I Checkerboard the BetterComb?
The reason is that bees, when given the choice, will opt to use natural honey comb. The natural comb is what they expect and are accustomed to, and will choose that over a synthetic or plastic comb. When a natural and BetterComb frame are side by side, they prefer the natural. But if several BetterComb are in a row, they will not have the comparison and will use the BetterComb.
Can I extract the frames?
BetterComb frames are fragile unless assembled with wires. We do not recommend extracting the frames unless the combs are installed into fully wired frames. This item does not include parts needed for wiring.
What do I do with the wax at end of life?
At the end of a frame’s useful life, the combs can be melted down. The resulting wax can be used for candles, but is not beeswax. We have found the BetterComb wax and mixtures with beeswax make excellent candles.
Can I order BetterComb already wired in a frame?
Yes! Select that option from the drop down menu.
Better Comb