How to Make Homemade Fire Starters for Wood Stoves

Fire starters provide a steady and hot flame that lasts long enough to ignite tinder and kindling in a wood stove. Although a variety of fire starting aids are commercially available, a simple and effective fire starter can be made at home using some common items in only a short amount of time.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton balls or dryer lint
• Petroleum jelly
• Plastic storage bag

Instructions

1. Remove a cotton ball from the package or pinch off a clump of dryer lint and roll it into a ball.

2. Put a small amount of petroleum jelly on your finger.

3. Rub the petroleum jelly into the cotton ball or dry lint, working it in thoroughly.

4. Store the cotton or lint ball in a plastic zip-top bag until ready to use. Continue to make fire starters until the bag is filled.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the cotton ball or lint ball petroleum fire starter by placing one in the center of the wood burning stove. Light the fire starter and add dry tinder and kindling to start a fire.

References

• Free-Camping-Recipes.com: Homemade Fire Starters