Simple, reliable fire starters that burn long enough to ignite damp or poor quality tinder when conditions are working against you.
Petroleum jelly extends burn time while cotton or other fibers ignite easily, making this one of the most dependable low effort fire starters you can make and store long term.
Ingredients
- Petroleum jelly
- Cotton balls or absorbent fibers (Dryer lint, cloth fibers, jute twine, or fine sawdust)
Tools
- Hands or spoon
- Small container or tin
- Fire source
How to Make and Use
- Pull fibers slightly apart
- Work petroleum jelly into the fibers
- Leave some dry fibers exposed
- Store sealed
- Ignite exposed fibers and place under kindling
Warnings
- Not a primary fuel
- Do not over saturate
- Prepare away from flame
Storage & Shelf Life
- Store sealed in a cool, dry place.
- Indefinite shelf life when kept dry.
When to Use It
- Wet or windy conditions
- Poor natural tinder
- Emergency fire starting
- Bug out and vehicle kits