Waterproof matches are generally quite expensive to buy, but you can easily make them yourself for much less. In this article, you will find a number of effective and verified ways to make waterproof matches for use on a nature hike, camping trip or in an emergency situation.
Steps
All of the methods listed have risks and are listed in order from safest to most dangerous. If you are a minor, do not try to start any without the permission and supervision of a responsible adult.
Method 1 of 4: Turpentine
The BEST and SAFE method is the one using turpentine. Turpentine has a higher flash point than acetone, commonly used for nail polish, and does not involve the use of a flame as in wax or paraffin methods.
Step 1. Pour 2 or 3 large tablespoons of turpentine into a glass
Step 2. Place the matches upside down in the turpentine and soak them for 5 minutes
During this time the substance will cover the entire head as well as part of the stick. All the water will be carried away by the turpentine.
Step 3. Remove the matches and arrange them to dry on top of some newsprint
It is usually recommended at least twenty minutes for the excess turpentine to evaporate. Matches that have undergone this treatment usually remain waterproof for several months, sometimes even longer.
Method 2 of 4: Nail Polish
Step 1. Dip the end of the match with the head into the nail polish, enough to cover the stick to at least 3mm below the head
Step 2. Hold the match in your hand for a few seconds to let the polish dry and then place it on a table or shelf so that the head protrudes over the edge of the surface
Step 3. Place a sheet of newspaper underneath to avoid staining with what may drip
Method 3 of 4: Candle
Step 1. Light a candle and let it burn until you get a good amount of liquid wax (about 1cm)
Step 2. Blow out the candle
Step 3. Dip the end of the match with the head in the wax, enough to cover the stick to at least 3mm below the head, exactly as in the glaze method
Step 4. Hold the match in your hand for a few seconds to allow the wax to cool and harden slightly
Again as in the enamel method, then place the match on a table or shelf, so that the head is suspended outside the surface.
Step 5. Once the wax has cooled, and not yet fully hardened, squeeze the wax-coated end with your fingers to seal it firmly
Method 4 of 4: Paraffin
Step 1. Melt enough paraffin in a double boiler so that you can coat at least 1cm deep with wax
Step 2. Tie a sizeable amount of matches from the bottom to just below the wax part with twine or jute string
You will have made a torch that can burn for over 10 minutes.
Advice
- Turpentine possesses a relatively high flame point compared to nail polish, therefore, it is safer to use. All turpentine, mineral, pine or lemon have the same waterproof capacity.
- You can also coat the matches completely in wax to make sure the water doesn't slide off the stick.
- Enamel is more dangerous than turpentine, but it is better than wax which can easily break or be scratched off.
- When you choose to use any wax, work (always in maximum safety) as quickly as possible so that the wax does not harden.
- Don't drink from the glass you used to soak the matches.
- If you don't use ignitable matches everywhere, be sure to keep a lighting surface with the matchbox.
- If you don't have a double boiler, you can melt the paraffin wax using a metal bowl over a pot of boiling water. You can also try melting the wax in a skillet over a low heat, however, you will increase the risks and chances of fire.
- Do not use a plastic cup to put the turpentine, it could melt due to the substance itself.
- Turpentine effectively removes all moisture absorbed and contained by the wood. Consequently, any type of match, no matter how old it is, can be used.
- Even if the matches will be waterproof, it will still be a good idea to keep them together with the ignition surface, away from water, such as inside any resealable, sealed and waterproof container.
- The whole process should be done shortly after purchasing the matches so that they don't take too much moisture from the air.
- The candle method works well with wooden matches. DO NOT USE it when the stick is made of wax or plastic.
- Transfer the leftover turpentine into its special container.
Warnings
- Turpentine is toxic if ingested or inhaled over a substantial period of time.
- Liquid wax is extremely hot and can cause severe burns as well as ignite.
- Always use extreme caution when handling fire.
- Paraffin wax is incredibly difficult to remove from cookware. Use an old pan or bain marie pot, or purchase a second-hand one just for this purpose. Alternatively, use an old metal coffee cup in a pot of water. Paraffin wax is also highly reactive in the presence of any water droplets.
- Nail polish (and wax) can stain fabrics and surfaces, which is why it's a good idea to coat your work surface with newsprint. Nail polish is also highly flammable and known to be carcinogenic.
