There is more use - that was just useless than old toilet paper tubes, the end of a burnt down candle, and dryer lint. Combined, these three useless components can be turned into a great fire starter. This homemade fire starter is easy to make, very portable, and ideal for any time you need to build a campfire. Best of all, it uses materials that ordinarily would find their way into the trash.
Instructions
1. Pack the toilet paper tube with as much lint as can possibly fit. It you don't have enough, use old soiled paper napkins or paper towels as well. Once the toilet paper tube has been completely filled, stand it up in the bowl and set aside for the moment.
2. Place the candle wax in the glass jar on old tin can. Set in the saucing pan of boiling water, until melted.
3. When the candle wax has melted, gently pour a tablespoon of the melted wax on one end of the toilet paper tube. Be sure to completely cover all the exposed lint.
4. When the wax has hardened (3-5 minutes) flip the tube over. Press the lint firmly into the tube once more, then pour in another tablespoon of wax.
5. Remove the fire starter from the bowl, and let completely harden for a couple of hours.
Store your fire starters in an airtight and waterproof container, such as a coffee can, Ziploc bag or plastic peanut butter jar to prevent the wax from ruining your camping gear.
I do something similar to the TP rolls, but I use paper egg cartons cut into individual cups, stuffed with dryer lint, close the top and tie shut with dental floss or yarn, and then dip into the melted wax. Then they get cooled on wax paper for a few minutes. They work well, burn for 7-9 minutes, and best of all, are waterproof and don't need to be kept in a special jar. I keep them in a ziplock, but don't have to worry if they get wet.
Growing up a Girl Scout I have difficulty buying fire starters 🙂 So this is a good medium between gathering tinder and kindling and buying fire starters.
Someone had an idea of buying those instant burn logs, sawing pieces off of it and using that as a fire starter. It is a good idea. However I didn't like the cost.
I have never had a problem starting a fire with paper and twigs but I like to have some fire starters 'cause you never know when you'll run into a problem. Years ago I made them out of egg cartons, chainsaw dust, and wax.
I have been eyeing up this huge box of candles that DW has....but doesn't remember and keeps buying more :doh: . I think it is time a few of those candles to disappear....she'll never know :-X .....and make a few fire starters. I like the egg carton and chainsaw dust. I'll be the one with the vanilla smelling fire 😉
Matt O 2006 Skyline Nomad 27' travel trailer. Previously owned 1986 Coleman Columbia / 1992 Coleman Senecca / 1989 Born Free Class C RV.
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