My beesuit is now two years and two months old, but the first month didn't count because then I didn't have bees. As it enters its third year of service, my suit has some permanent propolis stains. You can see them in the close-up.
Bees make propolis from sap and it is a sticky, gummy substance. It can be many colors, but mostly my bees make a rust-colored propolis. When it sticks to your suit, it doesn't wash out very well. The suit below has just come out of the dryer, having been washed in Chlorox, but you can still see the propolis stains.
I made the mistake this laundry round of washing my beesuit with my other white laundry. Now I have two white nightgowns as well as a couple of white t-shirts with obvious rust-colored propolis melted into their fabric.
Take it from me: Wash your beesuit by itself!
I have developed an interest in beekeeping and came across your site during a search. I just spent a few hours going over posts from the beginning. It is a very informative site for someone who knows nothing about bees. Good Job
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