Hi there! Today we are going to learn how to make DIY Fire Starters.
When you’re preparing for an outdoor adventure or a cozy evening by the fire, you want to ensure that lighting a fire isn’t a hassle. DIY fire starters are invaluable tools for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, or even just starting a fire at home.
In this article, we’ll explore five of the best fire starters that should be in every prepper’s toolkit. These simple yet effective methods will make your fire-building experience easier, more reliable, and quicker. Let’s dive right into these DIY fire starters that can save the day when you need them most.
Without further ado, let’s go make a fire!
For more information on fire starters, please check out Dyrt or you can download the app on your smartphone.
DIY Fire Starters: Keep it Simple with Cotton
One of the most popular and effective DIY fire starters is the cotton ball soaked in petroleum jelly. First, gather some cotton balls and a small container of petroleum jelly. Simply dip each cotton ball into the jelly, ensuring it is fully coated. Next, store these fire starters in a waterproof container or plastic bag for easy access. The petroleum jelly provides a slow, steady burn, while the cotton ball catches fire easily from a spark or match. As a result, you’ll have a fire starter that burns for several minutes, giving you ample time to get your fire going.
These are also great to throw in the Swedish Torch.
Egg Carton Fire Starters
Egg cartons are a fantastic way to make fire starters while recycling at the same time. To start, take a cardboard egg carton and fill each cup with dryer lint or sawdust. Then, pour melted wax over the lint or sawdust. Once the wax hardens, you’ll have a ready-made fire starter. The best part is that the cardboard provides a steady burn, and the wax ensures that your fire starter lasts longer. Additionally, egg carton fire starters are easy to pack, lightweight, and very efficient.
Pine Cone Fire Starters
For those who prefer a more natural approach, pine cones make excellent fire starters. Simply collect pine cones from your surroundings, ensuring they are dry and free from moisture. You can also dip the pine cones in wax to prolong their burn time. Once ready, they can be used to quickly ignite your fire.
Moreover, they make for a great outdoor activity to gather materials for your fire starter. Plus, they smell great burning too!
Charcoal Briquettes with Lighter Fluid
While it may not be as “DIY” as some of the other options, charcoal briquettes with lighter fluid are still an incredibly effective fire starter. All you need to do is soak a few briquettes in lighter fluid and place them in your fire pit or campfire ring.
Something to keep in mind, this method is best used in a controlled setting, such as a fire pit, due to the highly flammable nature of the lighter fluid.
Dried Orange Peels
If you’re looking for an all-natural fire starter, dried orange peels are an excellent choice. First, peel an orange and separate the peel into sections. Then, let the peels dry out for a few days until they become brittle. Once dried, the peels have a high oil content, which helps them catch fire easily and burn for a decent amount of time. Additionally, the citrus scent they emit while burning can add a pleasant aroma to your fire.
Thoughts & Takeaways
In conclusion, DIY fire starters are not only practical but also a fun and cost-effective way to ensure that you never have trouble lighting a fire again. Each of these methods provides its own set of benefits, from the quick and easy-to-make cotton ball with petroleum jelly to the eco-friendly pine cone fire starters. No matter which option you choose, having a few fire starters in your arsenal will give you the peace of mind to know that lighting a fire is just a spark away. Lastly, remember to always consider the environment you’re in, as some fire starters might be better suited to certain conditions than others. Stay prepared, and you’ll always have a reliable way to start a fire when needed.
-CT
