BetterComb Synthetic Foundation

Unlike regular foundation, BetterComb does not need to be drawn out by your bees. This saves your bees a tremendous amount of time and effort, as compared to regular foundation.

The wired frames are most versatile and can be used in hot climates as well and with honey. 

While this can be installed into appropriate regular frames, for a clean installation and to save time and effort BetterComb Wired Frames are also available.

When installed into a frame, the comb is ready for your bees. BetterComb provide your bees with instant access to essential space for brood or nectar, without needing to draw out comb.

BetterComb has a number of significant benefits.

• By allowing immediate egg laying, BetterComb can help accelerate brood production, increasing the productivity of the colony.
• When nucleus colonies are installed in a hive, bees may initially store nectar in the brood nest, if it is the only space available. A brood area plugged with nectar may trigger a swarming impulse. By comparison, installing BetterComb immediately offers bees space to expand.

BetterComb should be installed into a groove top wooden frame. Please note other manufacturers’ frames may vary. However it is possible to cut BetterComb with a knife to reduce the size if needed.

We recommend pinning the comb into place on all four sides with toothpicks; this requires drilling holes in the top and bottom bar, and side bars (if not already drilled). We also offer a complete kit with frames and combs as a kit.

To install the comb into a frame, simply press the frame over the comb, align, and pin with wooden toothpicks (frame and toothpicks not included). Printed instructions are included and are also available here.

Sold in a packs of 10.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

From what is BetterComb made?

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.

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.

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. See photos in instructions for additional information.

Can I extract the frames?

The BetterComb frames are fragile compared to wired frames or frames with plastic foundation. We do not recommend extracting the frames for that reason. It is possible to make frames with wiring that will handle extraction easily. This item does not include parts needed for wiring, though.

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 that the BetterComb wax, as well as mixtures with beeswax, burns in a similar manner to pure beeswax.