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A smoker is an essential tool for beekeeping. Here is how to use yours safely and effectively.
How to Choose Your Smoker Fuel
There are a few choices when it comes to fuelling your smoker…
Fast-Burning Materials (To Start the Fire)
- Dry leaves
- Dry pine needles
- Plain paper or paper bags
- Thin cardboard
Slow-Burning Materials (To Sustaining the Smoke)
- Cotton
- Wood shavings or wood pellets
- Decayed, dry plant and tree matter
Materials to Avoid (Safety Risk)
- Cardboard with glue or ink
- Synthetic materials
- Glossy paper or coloured card
Step-by-Step: Lighting the Smoker
Start the Fire: Open the top of the smoker and ensure the grate is sitting flat in the bottom (make sure the legs are folded out to create a breathe gap between the grate and bottom of the smoker). Light a small piece of your fast-burning fuel and drop it in.
Puff the Bellows: Gently squeeze the bellows repeatedly until you see bright embers at the bottom.
Add the Slow Burn: Loosely pack your slow-burning material on top of the embers. Tip: Do not pack it too tightly or you will choke out the oxygen.
Test the Temperature: Close the lid and pump the bellows until dense, cool smoke pours out. Always test the heat of the smoke against the back of your bare hand first—hot smoke will singe and anger the bees.
Ready For Use on Your Hive
Once you have removed the roof and crown board squeeze a couple of puffs of smoke into the hive and at the entrance to calm the bees, Don’t over do it as too much smoke will stress them.
Extinguishing Your Smoker
When your inspection is finished, extinguish the smoker by stuffing the funnel with grass to stop the airflow. Leave the smoker to properly cool and then dispose of the ash.
What Smoker Do I Use?
I currently use the Flexzion Stainless Steel Smoker on my hives. It features a heat guard, leather bellows, a bellows clip for storage, and a handy mounting hook. It’s an effective budget starter that produces plenty of smoke, though after heavy use the lid can require a little manipulation to open due to natural propolis and tar buildup.
Budget Option: You can check the current price and details for the Flexzion Smoker on Amazon.
(Note: Quality control on budget marketplace smokers can vary—if Amazon stock is low or unavailable, we recommend the alternative below).
Premium / Long-Term Pick: For maximum durability, heavy-duty bellows, and precision-fitting lids, consider investing in a professional-grade model like the E.H. Thorne Stainless Steel Smoker.
For replacement bellows, smoker guards and long burning fuel supplies, explore our recommended gear and accessories guide.