BUCKHORN CLIFFS

Tools and Repair · Formula · Book recipe 21.2

Camphor blocks for tool and storage protection

Camphor slowly transitions from solid directly to vapor without melting, releasing fumes that repel insects and inhibit rust formation on metal surfaces.

Member articleHazardousWorks without power

How it works

Place blocks
Vapor builds
Deters pests
Protected

Inside this article

What you'll need
Steps
Warnings
Storage and shelf life

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  • The method at a glance: place blocks, then vapor builds, then deters pests, then protected
  • The exact numbers: place, vent, protects, replace, keep from
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Prefer paper? This is Recipe 21.2, page 119, in Prepper's Chemical Survival Guide.

Questions this answers

Tap a question for the short answer.

How do I keep tools from rusting in a toolbox?

Real camphor turns straight from solid to vapor, and in a closed box that vapor leaves a thin film that slows rust. It works best as a backup to a light protective coating on the steel itself.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

Can I use camphor to prevent rust?

Yes. Vapor from real camphor leaves a thin rust-slowing film on metal inside a closed space. Many products sold as camphor are actually mothball chemicals that do not protect metal, so check what you are buying.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

Does camphor keep insects out of storage?

Yes. A camphor block steadily releases vapor that repels insects, so it protects textiles and gear in enclosed storage with nothing to refill or plug in. The space needs to stay closed so the vapor builds up.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

How do I store camphor blocks so they last?

Seal unused camphor airtight so it cannot slowly turn to vapor, and keep it cool, dry, and dark. Glass or tin beats thin plastic, which the vapors can degrade.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

When should I replace a camphor block?

A camphor block shrinks as it turns to vapor. Once it has shrunk away it no longer protects anything, and that is the signal to put in a fresh one.

Members get the exact amounts and every step.

Keep going

Read nextStoring your compounds: conditions, containers, packing and labelsThe conditions and containers that keep compounds good for years: temperature, light, and humidity targets, which container for which compound, the six packing steps, and what goes on every label.Compounds and Cleaning · Reference

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Compounds and Cleaning · Compound Camphor Shelf life: Indefinite. Storage: Airtight glass or tin. INDEFINITEHazardous Tools and Repair · Formula Rust removal for tools and hardware (vinegar soak) Soak: full-strength vinegar; Time: up to 24 hr; Then: scrub & rinse Handle with care Tools and Repair · Formula Petroleum jelly for protecting metal, leather, and rubber Rust needs three things at once: iron, oxygen, and a film of water. Take away any one and it stops. A wiped-on film of petroleum jelly takes away two, and it is the cheapest insurance a tool will ever get. Hazardous Medical · Formula Camphor muscle balm for soreness Rubbed on, camphor fires the skin warm and cool nerves at once, a mild tingling that masks the deeper ache and pulls fresh blood to the sore spot. Hazardous
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Tools and Repair · FormulaSource: Prepper's Chemical Survival Guide, Recipe 21.2, p. 119 · Last reviewed 2026-09-18

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