W.E. Hill and Sons Premium Conservation Wax
- Free shipping in NZ over $100
Maintenance • Instrument Conservation
W.E. Hill and Sons Premium Conservation Wax
A blend of microcrystalline waxes and citrus oils that lifts rosin build-up and gently polishes, with no petrochemical solvents. 50ml resealable tin in a display box. Developed and made in the UK.
What It Is
Cleaning without solvents
Conservation Wax is a newer formulation from W.E. Hill and Sons, developed under Peter Greiner, violin maker and Director of the firm. Where most instrument cleaners rely on petrochemical solvents to cut through rosin, this one uses a blend of microcrystalline waxes and citrus oils instead.
The practical difference is that it does two jobs at once. It removes accumulated rosin and grime, and it leaves a protective wax layer behind. It is not abrasive, and it dries perfectly transparent, so it will not cloud or dull a fine varnish.
Greiner reports using it on instruments by Stradivari and Guarneri as well as his own. It has been through an extensive testing programme, and it is intended for use on the instrument and the bow stick alike.
Key Specs
Brand
W.E. Hill and Sons
Size
50ml resealable aluminium tin
Constituents
Microcrystalline waxes, citrus oils
Solvents
No petrochemical solvents
Suitable for
Violin, viola, cello, bass, and bows
Made in
United Kingdom
What it does
Clean, care, conserve
Clean
Lifts rosin build-up from the top, shoulders, and the bow stick, without solvents and without abrasion.
Care
Acts as a gentle polishing agent. Transparent when applied, so the varnish keeps its own colour and depth.
Conserve
Leaves a microcrystalline wax layer that helps protect the surface between cleans.
How to Use
Small amount, soft cloth, light pressure
Take a small amount from the tin on a soft, lint-free cloth and work it gently over the surface. There is no need to press. The wax does the work, and the citrus oils do the lifting. Buff lightly with a clean, dry section of cloth to finish.
Wipe the instrument down with a dry cloth after every session to remove fresh rosin before it hardens. Reserve the wax for the periodic clean, when rosin has built up on the top and shoulders and a dry cloth will no longer shift it.
Reseal the tin after use.
Care + Storage
Keep it cool and sealed
Store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and away from heat. Reseal the aluminium tin after each use so the wax does not dry out. Because so little is needed per application, a 50ml tin lasts most players a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from the Hill Varnish Cleaner?
The Varnish Cleaner is the original Hill formula and does one job: it cleans. Conservation Wax is the newer formulation and does three: it cleans, it polishes, and it leaves a protective wax layer. It also contains no petrochemical solvents, and it can be used on the bow stick as well as the instrument body.
Will it change the colour of my varnish?
No. It is perfectly transparent when applied, and it is not abrasive. It is designed for use on fine instruments, and Peter Greiner has used it on instruments by Stradivari and Guarneri.
Can I use it on the bow?
It is formulated for stringed instruments and bows, so the stick is fine. Keep it away from the bow hair, which should never have any product applied to it, and away from the grip and the frog winding.
How often should I use it?
Once or twice a month suits most players. A dry cloth after each session handles the day-to-day rosin; the wax is for the periodic clean and the protective layer it leaves behind.
Will it repair scratches or damaged varnish?
No. It cleans and protects, but it is not a filler or a restorative. Scratches, chips, and open seams need a luthier. Applying more wax to a damaged area will not help.
In store
We stock this alongside our microfibre cloths at Symphonia Strings
57-59 Wellington St, Freemans Bay, Auckland
Shipping Information:
• Nationwide Delivery: We offer a flat rate of $6 for delivery anywhere in New Zealand (NZ Post Courier).
• Orders are usually processed and dispatched within 1–2 business days.
• Once dispatched, delivery typically takes 2–4 business days nationwide. Rural deliveries may take an additional 1–2 business days.
• Tracking information will be provided once your order has been dispatched.
• Please ensure your delivery address is accurate to avoid delays.
Return Policy:
Our return policy includes a 14-day guarantee for all orders. You'll receive a full refund for items returned in 'like new' condition with original packaging within this 14-day window. Please note, shipping charges for returns are the responsibility of the customer and will not be refunded.
