Need to light a campfire in your backyard or trying to get the fire roaring in the fireplace? Instead of wrestling with your lighter and newspaper, make these handy fire starters that can be used at home or on the road.
Edit Steps
Part 1: Find Supplies
- Gather/maintain a supply of empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls/tubes. Make sure they are still in decent condition and are not torn or haven’t been damaged in any way.
- Maintain a supply of electric clothes dryer lint. Whenever you clean out the lint trap, keep a small bucket or container near the dryer. Instead of tossing into the garbage, throw the lint into your container and keep in a safe, dry spot for future use.
Part 2: Make Fire Starters
- Gather a fistful of dryer lint. Size up the empty roll/tube you plan to use. Obviously the larger the roll, the more lint you will need. You want to stuff enough lint into the roll to fill it, but not overstuff it.
- Push lint into the roll. Stand the roll on its end and push lint downward until it touches the other surface. Add more lint until fire starter is completely full.
Part 3: Use Fire Starters
- Get your fire ready. Whether you are creating an outdoor bonfire or something cozy in the fireplace, make sure you have ample wood and matches/lighter for the job.
- Place your fire starter next to a log in the middle of your kindling pile. That way the fire can move evenly throughout the log/wood area.
- Finished.
Edit Tips
- You can also use an old cardboard egg carton to hold lint instead of paper towel rolls.
- Children should never use fire starters--adults should always be in charge.
- Remember to extinguish your fire before leaving the area or going to bed at night.
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