5 Simple DIY Fire Starters

1. Straw Fire Starter Kit

What you'll need: Straws, petroleum jelly, cotton, matches

These waterproof straw fire starters are compact and versatile. Keep them in your emergency kit, car, or camping gear. To make one:

• Cut a straw to fit a cotton ball and a match.
• Douse the cotton ball in petroleum jelly and insert it into the straw.
• Seal the straw by melting both ends lightly.

2. Lint & Toilet Paper Roll Fire Starter

What you'll need: Lint, toilet paper roll, petroleum jelly

This fire starter costs less than $5 to make. Simply:

• Collect lint from your dryer and coat it with petroleum jelly.
• Stuff the lint into a toilet paper roll.
• For extra fuel, wrap the roll in newspaper.

Store the fire starter in a waterproof container for best results.

3. Pinecone Fire Starter

What you'll need: Pinecones, twine, candle wax

This fun and practical project can even be done while camping. Here’s how:

• Wrap twine tightly around the pinecone, weaving through its layers.
• Melt wax and dip the pinecone fully into it.
• Let it cool on parchment paper for about an hour.

4. Egg Carton Fire Starter

What you'll need: Empty egg carton, candle wax, sawdust

Turn leftover egg cartons into handy fire starters:

• Fill each carton section with sawdust.
• Drip melted candle wax over the sawdust until it’s saturated.
• Cut the carton into individual sections once cooled.

Store these in a dry, accessible place.

5. Wine Cork Fire Starter

What you'll need: Wine corks, isopropyl alcohol

Instead of discarding wine corks, turn them into fire starters:

• Soak the corks in isopropyl alcohol for a few hours.
• Store them in a plastic container for easy access.
• Place on top of kindling or newspaper to ignite your fire quickly.