Used as a rust and paint remover, for bleaching wood, leather, etc. Boat and plastic cleaner, etc. Solubility in water = 10%.
Oxalic acid can be used effectively to remove rust stains, so-called rail dust, and metal shavings from studs and plow blades that can get stuck in the paint on cars during the winter.
Oxalic acid is a highly effective cleaning agent for washing boat hulls. Very effective for cleaning the difficult and usually tough dirt found at and below the waterline of the boat. Easily dissolves all common contaminants.
DOSAGE: Dissolve 250 ml of Oxalic acid in 8 liters of water
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Apply the agent with a sponge, spray bottle, or similar, let it act for 30 minutes, and then rinse off with clean water.
Oxalic acid combined with glycerin – often called the oxalic acid/glycerin method or "extended release oxalic acid" – is an effective method for long-term treatment against Varroa mites in bee colonies. The method involves mixing oxalic acid with glycerin and soaking it into a carrier material, usually a Wettex cloth, which is then placed inside the hive.
Mechanism of action: The glycerin makes the oxalic acid sticky and extends its release. When the bees move over the strips, they come into contact with the acid, which kills the Varroa mites gradually over time.
Long-term effect: Unlike traditional oxalic acid trickling – which only works when the colony is broodless – this method can work for 60–75 days. This makes it usable even during the brood season.
Placement: Wettex cloths soaked in the mixture are placed on top of the frame bars in the brood chamber.
Effectiveness: The method has been shown to keep mite pressure down for a longer period, even during brood periods.
Safety for the bees: Both oxalic acid and glycerin are naturally occurring substances. They do not contaminate the hive and are not considered to harm the queen, unlike many synthetic pesticides.
Honey harvest: Some experience suggests that the treatment can be carried out even when supers are on, but always follow local recommendations and stay updated on any effects on honey quality.
Temperature dependence: Evaporation is limited at low temperatures. Treatment is therefore recommended during warmer periods – spring, summer, or early autumn.
Note that this method is still being evaluated in Sweden. Stay updated on current results, for example via the "Friska Bin" project.
What areas of use is oxalic acid suitable for?
Oxalic acid is versatile – from rust removal on cars and boats to bleaching wood and leather, grout cleaning, and plastic washing. It is also used by beekeepers for the treatment of Varroa mites in bee colonies.
How long does the product last?
Oxalic acid in powder form has a long shelf life if stored dry and cool in the original packaging. A mixed solution should be used within the same work session.
Can oxalic acid be used against Varroa mites even during the brood season?
Yes – with the glycerin/Wettex cloth method (extended release), the treatment can last for 60–75 days and is therefore effective even when there is brood in the hive. Traditional trickling, however, only works when the colony is broodless.
How much do I need?
For cleaning, 1 kg is enough for several treatments of normal surfaces. For Varroa treatment, about 30 g is used per Wettex cloth and hive – 1 kg is therefore enough for about 33 treatments. For larger operations, the 25 kg pack is recommended.
At what temperature can I apply it?
For cleaning, oxalic acid works best above +5°C. For Varroa treatment with the glycerin/Wettex cloth method, warmer periods – spring, summer, or early autumn – are recommended, as evaporation is limited at low temperatures.
Do I need to pre-treat the surface?
For cleaning: rinse the surface and degrease if necessary before application. For Varroa treatment: no preparation of the hive is required beyond mixing the solution and soaking the Wettex cloth.
Is the product environmentally friendly?
Oxalic acid is an organic acid that occurs naturally in nature and is approved for use in organic beekeeping. Handle with care – avoid discharge into sewers and watercourses. See the safety data sheet for proper waste disposal.
Can I use the product myself?
Yes, for both cleaning and beekeeping, the product is intended for personal use. Always use protective gloves and safety goggles. When preparing the glycerin mixture for beekeeping, respiratory protection is also recommended. Read the safety data sheet before use.
Rinse the surface with clean water to remove loose dirt. In case of heavy deposits, scrape off the worst before application. Greasy surfaces should be degreased with a suitable cleaning agent. Ensure the surface is damp but not wet when applying for optimal effect.
Dissolve 250 ml of oxalic acid in 8 liters of water. Apply the solution with a sponge, spray bottle, or similar tool evenly over the surface. Let it act for approx. 30 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Repeat if necessary for stubborn stains. Always use protective gloves and safety goggles during the entire process.
Heat the glycerol gently and dissolve the oxalic acid in a 1:1 (weight) ratio until the mixture clears. Soak a Wettex cloth with approx. 30 g of oxalic acid and 30 g of glycerol. Place the cloth on top of the frame bars in the brood chamber. Replace the cloth after approx. 60–75 days or when it is depleted. Always use gloves and respiratory protection during preparation and handling.
