Wax paper for food: what it is and which type to choose

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Wax paper sounds like one product, but it is sometimes confused with a different one: the reusable beeswax-coated cloth. Traditional waxed paper is a disposable food wrapper; beeswax wraps are fabric sheets made for repeated use. Here is how to tell them apart.

Quick answer: Traditional wax paper is paper with a thin wax coating, useful for wrapping cold food and separating layers of baking. It is not baking paper. Beeswax wraps are cotton cloths that mould around food and bowls and can be reused for around a year. Which costs less per use depends on how often you reuse them.

Traditional wax paper: disposable coated paper

Wax paper commonly has a paraffin or other wax coating that resists grease and light moisture. It is useful for packed lunches, separating layers in a biscuit tin or protecting a work surface during food preparation. It must not be used for baking: some wax coatings soften or melt at around 60 °C. After use, follow the packaging and local waste instructions; coated, food-soiled paper is generally unsuitable for ordinary paper recycling.

Beeswax wraps: reusable coated fabric

Beeswax wraps are cotton cloth coated with beeswax, tree resin and sometimes jojoba oil. Hand warmth makes the sheet tacky and flexible so it moulds around a bowl, a piece of cheese or half a lemon. As it cools, it holds its shape. Wash it in cold water and reuse it for around 12 months. The coating can be refreshed at low heat when it becomes dull. Start with how to use beeswax wraps.

Wax paper, baking paper or beeswax wraps?

The three are often confused, but only baking paper is intended for baking temperatures:

Wax paperBaking paperBeeswax wraps
MaterialPaper with a wax coatingPaper, usually silicone-coatedCotton with a beeswax coating
For baking in the ovenNoYes, often up to 220 °C; check the packNo
ReuseNormally disposableSometimes a few times if the manufacturer permitsYes, for around 12 months
Best forSeparators and cold packed foodBaking and roasting within its ratingCovering, wrapping and storing food

The full comparison is in baking paper, wax paper or beeswax wraps. For the composition of baking paper, read what is baking paper made of?.

Wrapping cheese, bread and vegetables

Cheese is a familiar use for food wrapping paper, and a reusable beeswax sheet can suit firm cheeses. It helps manage moisture while protecting the surface. See how to wrap cheese and storing cheese without plastic. For a whole loaf, one sheet may be too small; a wax-lined bag is shaped for that job. See what is a beeswax bread bag?.

Frequently asked questions

Are wax paper and baking paper the same?
No. Baking paper is heat-resistant within its stated rating. Wax paper has a coating that melts in heat and is intended for cold wrapping and separating food.
Can wax paper go in the oven?
Do not use it for baking. Its wax can melt, transfer to food or smoke. Use baking paper rated for the oven temperature instead.
What works for everyday reusable food storage?
Beeswax wraps mould around suitable cold food, wash in cold water and can be reused for around a year. Repeated use reduces the need for disposable wrapping.

For food that stays out of the oven

Vokshus beeswax wraps are cotton wraps coated with beeswax and tree resin. See the product page for available sets, sizes and your local price.

See the beeswax wrap sets →
  • Reusable for around 12 months
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  • Wash in cold water
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  • Refresh the wax coating when needed