Using plastic does create some problems with cleaning. You should try to break off most of the large pieces of wax and then carefully, with a razor blade, scrape areas with propolis build up. It is best to do this in a cool area or atleast cool the plactic down in a frig. This way the wax and propolis are brittle and will break off instead of smear. Many organics will affect the plastic by making it atleast temorarily clouding. Depending on the plastic, you could get a real mess. I use a cleaner called 409 which can be purchased from any grocery store in my area. You spray it on, let it sit for a minute or so and then wipe it off. With time, even this procedure will cause the plastic to become cloudy. There is always the occasional slip with the razor blade which scratches the surface. What problems were you having with the glass? Other than the occasional slip and break, I have found glass OK. What type of plastic are you using? I am using acrylic on one hive, and it seems to do ok. Ed Beary [log in to unmask]