The BeeGuard^TM Bag is a fine mesh bag that protects developing bee larvae from insects like earwigs, ants, beetles, and parasitic wasps.

Instructions

NOTE: Leafcutter bees can produce multiple generations per summer: So, wait until the weather cools in the fall for bees to stop nesting. Leafcutter bees usually stop flying when temperatures drop below 60F/15C.

• When your bees have finished nesting, place the nesting materials (including the five reeds that came with your InvitaBee^TM in the BeeGuard^TM Bag with the capped ends facing up. Use the drawstring to tightly close the bag.
• If you are using reeds or tubes, you can place them in a mason jar with no lid and sit the jar upright in your BeeGuard^TM Bag. This will reduce the chance of larvae falling out of the tubes.
• Store the bag out of direct sunlight in an unheated garage or well-ventilated shed where the temperature is roughly equal to the temperature outdoors. You needn't be concerned about severe cold.
• Periodically check on your stored BeeGuard^TM Bag. Sneaky parasitic wasps might have already laid their eggs and you may find the tiny, young wasps trapped inside. You will see them flying about at the top. Place one hand on each side of the top of the bag and rub them together briskly to squish them. You may also find an emerged wild adult bee that needs to be released outside.
• The BeeGuard^TM Bag is machine washable.
• Use a detergent that is safe for delicate fabrics. Ex: Woolite, Dreft
• Use the "gentle" or "delicate" setting on your washer.
• Dry using low heat. It's a good idea to include a couple of clean dry dish towels in the dryer. This will encourage the bags to dry more quickly. 

You may be surprised at just how much you can put inside a BeeGuard Bag. If you are weaning away from a house filled with fixed bamboo, you can often place the entire house inside the bag. See our article on How to Rescue Bees from Bamboo and Drilled Blocks of Wood.