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Old 12-27-2015, 08:56 AM   #1
Jenibelle
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Default Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

I'm looking for a natural way to waterproof a wooden shelf and I know beeswax is a cheap and non-toxic way to waterproof.

Is it safe for hamsters though? On the other hand, do you think it would attract chewing? I do not want to attract chewing.
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Old 12-27-2015, 09:03 AM   #2
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

If you can get hold of a water based child safe paint from a DIY store I think this would be a safer option really. In the UK we use a product called Plastikote, but paints sold for children are usually safe to use with items for small pets, but always, ALWAYS check the label. Beeswax although sounding natural I imagine would have a strong smell? I can`t say for sure, but most waxes do. x
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Old 12-27-2015, 09:45 AM   #3
Jenibelle
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

I don't want to paint the wood because I want a natural look, so I want it to actually look like wood.

If a label were to say "safe for children" can it be assumed it is also safe for pets? Or should the label specifically say "pet safe"?
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Old 12-27-2015, 12:31 PM   #4
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

Found this thread

Safe for Hamsters??
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Old 12-27-2015, 01:56 PM   #5
Jenibelle
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

I saw that after posting as well. I'm not looking to make a mixture, just use pure organic beeswax. I know it's safe for dogs and us, so I can would assume it's okay for hamsters too, but I'm wondering if anyone knows for sure?
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Old 12-27-2015, 03:28 PM   #6
Pebbles82
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

I would think a hamster would be more likely to chew it. Also most beeswax products sold will probably have been processed in some way to turn them into polish. Not sure if a piece of natural honeycomb wax would work - but yes I'd think it might tempt nibbling - or just smell too strong for a hamster. But I'm not 100% sure, just my opinion. Sorry, just saw you said you would be using natural organic beeswax.

The plasti-kote paint I used is clear, so the wood still looks natural. Yes I think generally if a paint is suitable for young children it is petsafe (as young children can chew things) - better if it is water-based. Not all childsafe paints will be waterproof though maybe.

I think US member Keith ordered Plasti-kote from the Uk. This is the one I got from Amazon. I didn't like the idea of using it at first, but it hardly smells of anything at all and the slight smell has worn off by next day.

Plasti-kote B26 Bottle 59 ml Clear PKTB26W: Amazon.co.uk: Kitchen & Home
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Old 12-27-2015, 04:51 PM   #7
Jenibelle
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

I had no idea that we could use the U.K. amazon?!? If that is true, that would be awesome. You guys have so many more things available for small animals!

What I found was, is that you can melt beeswax down (I have a bar of organic, solid beeswax), and then use a washcloth to rub it into wood... apparently, once it dries, the wood would be waterproof. But I don't want something that may encourage chewing. At the same time, I want something as natural and harmless as possible. I will look into alternative ways of getting this Plastikote, because I looked for it in the US stores today and couldn't find it.
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Old 12-27-2015, 04:55 PM   #8
Pebbles82
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

You could try putting it into your basket from the link, and signing in (I sign into US Amazon with my Uk account and it works fine) and see what the postage would be.
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Old 12-27-2015, 09:05 PM   #9
Nancy's Hamsters
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

You can paint it with Titebond 2 Interior/Exterior Premium Wood Glue which is non Toxic, and Child safe, AND Water resistant, and only $3.58+Tax for and 8 oz bottle at Lowe's.
This is the smallest size bottle and they have two sizes larger for a few dollars more.
It dries clear and can be painted over if you decide at a later date to paint instead of going natural
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Old 12-27-2015, 09:13 PM   #10
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Default Re: Opinions on Beeswax to waterproof?

I found it, thanks Nancy!

I'm assuming you can just paint it on with a paintbrush?
Shop Titebond Yellow Interior/Exterior Wood Adhesive (Actual Net Contents: 8 Fluid Oz.) at Lowes.com
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