Using Bottle Wax

NEVER pour molten wax down sink or floor drains!

Heating wax to a temperature over 450°F could result in combustion.

NEVER pour water on a wax fire - it will spread. Instead, use a dry chemical fire extinguisher or smother the fire with a metal lid.

How to Dip Bottles

  1. Check to be sure that the cork seal is satisfactory and complete. Both bottle and cork must be clean and dry.
  2. Melt bottle wax in a suitable container (such as a double boiler or melting pot). Using a thermometer, slowly heat the wax to a temperature between 160-170 degrees F.
  3. Invert a prepared bottle and carefully lower the cork end into the melted bottle wax. Hold it in the wax for 10 to 15 seconds. Then pull straight up, keeping the bottle inverted. When the excess run-off slows or stops, turn the bottle upright and allow it to cool.

How to Cap Bottles

  1. Make sure the cork is recessed 1/8" to ¼" below the top of the bottle, and that you have a complete and satisfactory seal. Both bottle and cork must be clean and dry.
  2. For small batches and low speed operations, bottle wax may be applied from a suitable dispenser. High speed applications can use systems equipped with automatic indexing and triggering mechanisms.
  3. Bottle wax should be brought to and kept at a temperature between 185-205 F. Ideal temperature may vary depending on ambient temperature and humidity. Proper temperature is important, so use a thermometer.

Additional Tips for Successful Use

Stir the bottle wax frequently to assure proper application temperature and uniform color. Colors may change if overheated or heated for an extended period of time.

Presentation can be enhanced by applying a customized, stamped seal to wax cap while it's still warm.

Check cork carefully to make sure seal is adequate. If the cork will move when bumped or jostled in transit, then leakage can occur. Most corks are porous and some products such as oils can leak through and around the cork. Corks may be submerged in wax at 200 F to help seal the pores.

Wax products may oxidize if continually heated and cooled, or if over-heated. If you notice a burnt odor or darkened color, dispose of the product.