It used to be thought that a beekeeper who wore a propolis stained beekeeping
suit, smock or pair of overalls was one to be admired. Propolis, wax and honey stains were a
badge of office, to be nurtured and retained as evidence that they were
far too busy with their bees and beekeeping to have time to take their
protective clothing off for long enough to put launder it.
Times
have changed, and so have perceptions, and although it's still common
to see bee suits, smocks and trousers speckled with mildew from winter damp, it's as rare
to see a beekeeper wearing dirty outer clothing as it is for a surgeon
to wear bloodstained tweeds.
