About Equipment Management and Maintenance

Beekeeping equipment is a general term for the hive parts, hardware, tools, and apparel beekeepers use to care for a colony of honey bees.  The information contained on this page will outline the basics of necessary equipment and how to maintain it throughout the year. It is important to remember there are many “correct” pieces of equipment to accomplish the goal of keeping healthy, productive hives, and weather makes a big difference!  Beginners are encouraged to engage with more experienced beekeepers by joining national, state, or local beekeeping clubs and organizations as they develop skills and knowledge, to learn regional practices and what best suits their style and goals!

​Equipment Best Management Practices

View Project Apis m's Equipment Management eLearning Module below,
or download the powerpoint presentation 

Beekeeper's First Equipment List

This list should serve as a general guide to what a beginning beekeeper will need.  Equipment is sold assembled or unassembled.  Painting wooden equipment is encouraged as it will extend the life and durability.  White paint is widely used because it helps cool hives down in the warmer season.  Branding or painting identification information on the hive bodies, frames, or covers can prevent theft.   
  • Deep hive bodies (9 ⅝ inches)
  • Inner covers
  • Outer cover
  • Frames for deep hive bodies (9 ⅛ inches)
  • Bottom Boards
  • Entrance reducers
  • Queen excluders
  • Smoker
  • Suit/Hat/Veil
  • Hive tool
  • Feeder (Internal or External)
  • Medium supers (6 ⅝ inches) or shallow supers (5 ¾ inches)
  • Frames for medium supers (6 ¼ inches) or shallow supers (5 ⅜ inches)
  • Mite treatments
           Estimated Cost: $350-$500

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