Florida Fat Lighter Fatwood Kindling Fire Starter Wood Tinder Sticks 8 Ounces. 5 out of 5 stars (7) Total Ratings 7, 100% agree - Would recommend. Frost Cutlery 5 Count Strike Fire Stick 48 Pieces. 4.6 out of 5 stars (55) Total Ratings 55, 88% agree - Would recommend. Knowing how to make some easy homemade fire starters is a great (and affordable) way to always be prepared. Lighting a fire isn’t always as easy as you’d hope. Whether you’re starting a fire in your fireplace or enjoying nature around the campfire, sometimes we could all use a little help.

Cooler weather means that many people are building fires for warmth in their homes. Not only do wood burning fireplaces heat spaces up quickly, they also provide a cozy atmosphere. But building a fire can be challenging if you’re just using regular wood. Having a fire starter on hand can allow you to build fires more quickly. This saves time and effort so you can heat your home any time you need to.

There are several different types of fire starters. Some work better than others. Choosing the right one can also depend on your personal preference when it comes to building fires. Be sure to read the directions on the fire starter package before using it to ensure you’re doing it safely and efficiently each time. The following is a list of the 10 best fire starters based on reviews by consumer guides.

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10. Ignite-O FS855-24 Instant Fire Starter

The Ignite-O FS855-24 instant fire starter makes quick work of starting fires for heat or ambiance. This pack of 12 fire starters are designed to burn cleanly and safely.

These fire starters from Ignite-O are easy to use and ideal for those with little experience in starting fires. They can be used indoors or outdoors.

Product Features

• burn for up to 15 minutes
• don’t emit fumes or leave residue
• can be used in fireplaces, wood stoves, campfires, and charcoal grills

Pros

• versatile for indoor and outdoor use
• made of organic compounds
• don’t contain lighter fluid or smelly chemicals

Cons

• pricier than some other fire starters based on package size
• may not burn long enough to start fires with certain types of wood

This set of 12 fire starters from Ignite-O are designed for indoor and outdoor use. They can help you quickly make fires in your fireplace, fire pit, campfire, or wood stove.

9. Midwest Hearth Fire Starter Squares

The Midwest Hearth fire starter squares come in a large package making them ideal for anyone who relies on a fireplace or wood stove for heating their home.

These fire starters from Midwest Hearth are non-toxic and safe for use indoors or outdoors. They can be used in a fireplace, fire pit, campfire, and more.

Product Features

• made from compressed wood chips, recycled newspaper, and paraffin wax
• designed to light quickly
• burns for 10 minutes per square foot

Pros

• lights even when wet
• can be used in BBQ grills without flavoring your food
• approved for sale in California

Cons

• come in a flimsy box so you may need to move them to another container for storage
• can dry out over time if not used up

These fire starters come in a box with 144 pieces. They can be broken up into individual squares as you need them. They are made from non-toxic materials and can be used indoors or outdoors.

8. GreenSpark – Friendly Fire Starter Bundles

The GreenSpark Friendly Fire starter bundles come in a box of 70. These fire starters are made of all-natural materials and are environmentally friendly.

These fire starters from GreenSpark are made from a blend of wood wool and natural stearin. They include no artificial chemical additives and are safe for use in most types of wood burning fireplaces.

Product Features

• designed to burn for 8-10 minutes
• can be used in tough conditions like wind or inclement weather
• ideal for indoor and outdoor use

Pros

• works in a fire pit, outdoor grill, wood burning stove, and more
• made of sustainable materials
• efficient design allows you to start fires quickly with minimal effort

Cons

• may burn out more quickly than some other types of fire starters
• can produce a lot of smoke

This box of fire starters includes 70 individual starters made from natural materials. They are easy to use and can be useful for starting fires for heat or for recreational purposes.

7. duraflame Quick Start Firelighters

The duraflame quick start firelighters are available in a pack of 40. They are easy to use and are designed to help you get your fires going in just minutes.

These firelighters from duraflame break apart easily so you can choose how many you need based on the type and size of fire you’re lighting. They can be used in fireplaces, fire pits, campfires, and more.

Product Features

• box includes 10 4-packs
• designed to replace messy fire starters like newspaper and kindling
• use of these helps reduce wood fire emission

Pros

• safe for use inside or outside
• made with wax and a blend of recycled and renewable materials
• can be broken apart easily into the size you need

Cons

• based on the amount per package, these are not the best value on the market
• not as easy to start as some other options

This box of fire starters from duraflame includes 40 sticks. They can be broken apart based on the size you need. They work well in campfires, wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, and more.

6. duraflame 2.5lb 1.5-hr Firelog

These fire logs from duraflame are long-lasting to make it easy to start and maintain your fire. They have many uses and are safe for indoor or outdoor burning.

This set of fire starters from duraflame come in a box of 6. These logs are designed to burn much cleaner than standard wood to decrease soot and prevent you from excessive cleaning.

Product Features

• lights quickly with full flames in less than 5 minutes
• designed to burn for up to 1.5 hours
• burns 80% cleaner than wood

Pros

• lights easily with little effort
• can be used in UL-listed fireplaces
• made in the USA of high-quality materials

Cons

• not as cost-effective as traditional fire starters
• comes in a smaller package than many other options

This firelog from duraflame can be used indoors or outdoors. It’s safe for use in open hearth fireplaces, fire pits, and campfires. The logs are easy to light and can burn for over 1.5 hours.

5. Midwest Hearth Rock Wool for Gas Log

The Midwest Hearth rock wool was created to be used in gas log fireplaces. These fire starters are designed to be safe and useful for most types of gas logs from many different manufacturers.

These fire starters can enhance your gas fireplace and create a beautiful ambiance in your home. They create a realistic glowing effect for an authentic-looking fire without the mess and hassle.

Product Features

• made to glow like real coals where the flame touches the embers
• compatible with NG and LP gas appliances
• designed to last for many years

Pros

• easy to light and long-lasting
• work in most types of gas logs and fireplaces
• come in a reclosable bag so they stay fresh for future use

Cons

• not designed to help you light wood fires
• only made to be used in gas fireplaces

This bag of rock wool is made for use in gas logs and fireplaces. The bag includes 6 ounces and can be resealed so they maintain their integrity, even when not used for several seasons.

4. EasyGoProducts Approx. 120 Eco-Stix Fatwood Starter

The EasyGoProducts Fatwood fire starters come in a large box which makes them ideal for anyone who frequently has fires for warmth or for recreational purposes. These sticks can be used indoors or outdoors.

These fire starters from EasyGoProducts have a simple design that makes them very easy to use. They light quickly and burn hot so you can start fires with very little time and effort.

Product Features

• come in a box with approximately 120 stix
• made from 100% pure, natural, and non-toxic ingredients
• can be used for camping, fire pits, or indoor fireplaces

Pros

• 10-pound box lasts a long time for the average household
• not made with petrochemical additives
• have internal resin that helps fires start naturally

Cons

• you need to use 2-3 sticks per fire
• they may not burn as long as some other types of fire starters

This 10-pound box of fire starters from EasyGoProducts make quick work of starting a fire. The sticks burn hot so you can start your fires with very little effort. These sticks are safe for indoor and outdoor use.

3. Better Wood Products Fatwood Firestarter Box

The Better Wood Products fatwood fire starter box contains 10 pounds of efficient fire starters. They can be used in many ways inside or outside your home. They work well for fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, and other wood burning devices.

These fire starters from Better Wood Products are made of all-natural materials. They are safe to be used indoors and outdoors. They work quickly to help you start fires for heat or recreational use.

Product Features

• made of non-toxic materials for safe indoor use
• sticks are made to burn hot, even when damp
• made with the naturally occurring resin for a safe source of ignition

Pros

• can be used in fireplaces, stoves, grills, and campfires
• 10-pound box can last for a significant time when compared to other types of fire starters
• lightweight and portable so you can take them camping or for other outdoor uses

Cons

• not as cost-effective when compared to other fire starters
• you need at least 2-3 sticks for each fire

This box of fire starters contains 10 pounds of sticks. They are made to light easy, even when wet. These sticks can be used indoors in your fireplaces or for outdoor use in a campfire or fire pit.

2. Pine Mountain StarterLogg

The Pine Mountain StarterLogg fire starters are made for indoor or outdoor use. They can be used in a fire pit, indoor wood burning fireplace, wood stove, or campfire.

These fire starters have been designed to be very easy to use. They burn hot so you can start fires quickly and with very little effort. They’re also very affordable.

Product Features

• made of natural materials, including hardwood
• light quickly and easily
• come in a box of 24

Pros

Fireplace Starter Logs

• burn cleaner than cordwood
• can easily be split into different sizes
• produce less carbon monoxide

Cons

• come in a smaller package than many other fire starters
• may not work well for wood stoves that you cook on

These fire starters from Pine Mountain are made from natural materials. They can be used in indoor and outdoor wood burning fireplaces. They’re also great for starting fires in a fire pit or campfire.

1. Plow & Hearth Boxed Fatwood Fire Starter

The Plow & Hearth boxed fatwood fire starter comes in an 11-pound box. These fire starters are designed to start your fires quickly and easily so you don’t have to waste time to heat your home.

These fire starters from Plow & Hearth can also be used for outdoor fires. They work well to help you save time when building fires in a fire pit or campfire.

Product Features

• made of non-toxic materials
• sticks are loaded with natural resin for quick fire starting
• the sticks are pre-split which makes them easy to use

Pros

• compact and lightweight for portability
• made of environmentally friendly materials
• come pre-split

Cons

• may produce more smoke than other types of fire starters
• not ideal for use with certain types of hardwoods

This box of fire starters from Plow & Hearth is ideal for anyone who prefers to use natural woods that are environmentally friendly. They come in an 11-pound box for convenience.

A good fire starter can save you a lot of time when starting fires in your fireplace. Most fire starters are made of types of wood that burn quickly so you can use them to get your fire going with little effort. It’s a good idea to keep a supply of fire starters on hand so that you can always be prepared to build a fire. These fire starters can be used inside your wood-burning fireplace. They may also be useful in an outdoor fire pit or to build fires while camping.

When shopping for fire starters it’s helpful to consider the value. If you build a lot of fires, you may want to choose a large number of fire starters as this can help you save money. Anyone who needs fire starters for casual use, rather than for heating your home, may choose a smaller package for convenience. It’s helpful to read online reviews when choosing the best fire starters. These reviews can help you get the most out of your money.

Contents

• 1. Plow & Hearth Boxed Fatwood Fire Starter

Whenever you plan an outdoor activity, one of the first things you pack is a fire starter. Some of the obvious choices for a fire starter kit include a magnesium fire starter or a ferrocerium rod (also known as Ferro rod) fire starter.

Once you are out of the comfort of your home, you need to be very prudent with your survival tools, particularly during extreme weather and when you plan to spend the night(s) outside. This is where you need a fire to clean your water from impurities, cook food and equally importantly, to keep yourself warm and cozy. In certain situations, you may also use fire to threaten or scare the predators, particularly when you are out in a jungle or wilderness or to seek the attention of others when you are lost or signaling for help.

Always remember, a good quality fire starter kit will help you enjoy a good outdoor experience, but most importantly, maybe a lifesaver. You never know how or when it may come handy when you (or your loved ones) need it the most.

Best Fire Starter Kits

We have shortlisted some of the best fire starters out there to help you make the right decision.

FOSTAR Ferrocerium Alloy Rod Fire Starter

This is made out of the ferrocerium rod which is a high-quality item. It can ignite a 5,500F shower of sparks and pretty instantly, as and when you need it.

It is durable and compact and can work well in any weather condition, let it be rain, snow or even high altitudes. The Ferro rod is rustproof and is an ideal companion for camping, survival kit, bushcraft, and any other outdoor activity.

It comes with ergonomic handles that are easy to grip, no matter how cold your hands may be.

It weighs less than 2 ounces and 4 inches in length. It also comes with a very handy lanyard paracord, which has a decent size and can be used to hang this kit around your neck for easy access and use

UST BlastMatch Fire Starter

This fire starter kit has dimensions of 4.1” L x 1.4” W x 1” D and weighs 2.3 oz.

It can be operated with one hand and is flint based allowing you to light a fire with very little effort. It has a safety push button which is a great mechanism to avoid those accidental sparks.

It can ignite a wide variety of tinder such as UST WetFire Tinder. This is not included in this fire kit and you need to buy the tinder separately.

This product works effectively in all types of weather conditions and is renowned for generating 3 times more heat than the ordinary match sticks and can last up to 4000 strikes.

Survival Spark Magnesium Survival Fire Starter

This magnesium-based fire kit has high-quality material and is your perfect survival kit for all weather conditions. Thanks to its water-resistant and windproof technology.

It can last you up to 15,000 strikes and hence gives you good value for money.

It is an all-encompassing kit which includes a magnesium fire starter stick, large scrape, whistle & lanyard, and compass.

The rod is about 5.5 inches which makes it compact and portable, whether you want to carry it in your car or make it part of your survival kit.

Zippo Emergency Fire Kit

The Zippo emergency fire kit has a flint spark wheel as part of its basic functioning. It comes standard with the 5 spark tinder which is lightweight and its cotton is coated with paraffin wax. It gives you an approximate 5 minutes flame in those emergency scenarios, whether you want to light a fire or signal someone for help in a dire situation.

It is water-resistant and can be stored anywhere with ease. It has an ergonomic design with a textured grip which makes it easy to use. This kit is floatable as well if you find yourself in water. It has a molded lanyard hole and comes in a blister pack.

Exotac nanoSTRIKER XL Ferrocerium Fire Starter

This nano Ferro rod-based fire starter kit which is machined in the USA is popular due to its super portability feature and compact size. For example, it can be easily carried around in a key ring, your side pocket or around your neck with a lanyard.

Its Ferro rod is ¼ inches which are replaceable when needed and even works when wet. This rod gives you almost 3000 fire strikes. It has a collapsible and self-contained design which is water-resistant and makes it an ideal choice for outdoor activities.

It is reasonably priced at $26.46.

Zippo Mag Strike and Tinders

This Zippo strike kit comes with a 5/16 ferrocerium rod and has standard corrosion resistance due to its rod coating. It has a triangular shape and a textured grip for easy handling.

It also has a snap-lock closure feature which keeps it secure and safe.

This product has a striker blade with sharp edges, which are reusable and made out of ABS plastic.

The internal chamber of the kit is shielded and also has a molded lanyard hole. It comes in a box or blister pack.

IPOTCH Universal Primitive Fire Starter

This universal fire starter is made of wood and is preferred by those who like to do things in an old-fashioned way. Some also like it due to its primitive and retro features, as fire used to be kindled during earlier times.

This will essentially help you learn how to make a fire completely by yourself.

The product is easy to use and is not weighty at all, which makes it easier to carry around.

It can be safely used as an emergency fire starting kit during camping, picnic or hunting and is not only focused at fire enthusiasts.

It comes with a hardwood fire bow, spindle, tinder, and pre-notched fireboard.

It is reasonably priced at $15.24.

DIY Fire Starter

There are multiple ways and home-based items that you can use for creating your fire starter material.

Fire Starter Gel

One such method which doesn’t require any tool requires the following:

• Paraffin wax or candle stubs
• Sawdust
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment paper

Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper (or a tin foil/plastic wrap would do too). Fill this tray with sawdust and press it down with your hands. Next, you need to melt wax in a double boiler and when melted, pour it onto the tray over the sawdust in an even manner. When the wax hardens, you can cut it into squares and that is it – you have your fire starter ingredient ready!

Fire Starter Bow Drill

The bow drill is made up of a bearing block (or handhold), a spindle (or drill), a fireboard, and a plain bow. This type of drill is a primitive way of kindling fire without needing matches or lighter and utilizes friction to produce heat. This heat, in turn, is the trigger to produce fire with the help of burnt sawdust/tinder.

FAQ

How to Use a Fire Starter?

First of all, find the best and safest place to kindle the fire. You want to avoid flammable objects/trees or places that are damp.

Secondly, you need to prepare the fire site. You can create small dugouts or mound fires. In case it is windy, you will also need to prepare a windbreaker around the site to protect the fire.

Thirdly, you need to gather dry items for sustaining fire such as leaves, conifer needles, and small twigs, like tinder.

Fourthly, scrape the flint strip in the magnesium bar with a knife or scraper to kindle the fire.

If there is fire, great if no fire but smoldering and smoke then you need to blow consistently to ignite a fire.

Once the fire turns into flames, you can use larger branches of trees or logs to strengthen the fire and keep it burning for long. Always ensure that the fire is controlled and doesn’t spread around to nearby flammable items or materials nearby.

Lastly, always douse the fire once you are done with the purpose you kindled it for. Use water to extinguish the fire and stir the ashes before you leave the site.

When to Carry a Fires Starter Kit?

A fire starter kit can be an integral part of your backpack or a survival kit bag. It can be a lifesaver in an emergency when you are lost in the wilderness or need to signal somebody for help.

It can also be used for recreational activities such as camping, hunting, fishing or any other outdoor activity.

What should be in a Fire Starter Kit?

A fire kit generally has the following items:

• Watertight container
• Lighter
• Waterproof matches
• Ferro rod
• Magnesium rod
• Firesticks
• Candle
• Cotton wool and petroleum jelly
• Knife
• Bicycle inner tube

What is the Best Fire Starter?

Based on our comparative review, the best fire starter is the ‘Survival Spark Magnesium Survival Fire Starter with Compass and Whistle’. It is waterproof and wind-resistant and made of high-quality material. It gives you 15,000 strikes of flame and is compact, portable and convenient to use too.

Fire Starter Tool

A fire starter kit is a lifesaver and should be complemented and NOT replaced by ‘makeshift’ fire starters such as matchbox/lighter and papers. Ideally, you should carry both, as a kit can always give you a backup if you run out of the makeshift fire starter items or if they get damaged or dampened. Have a safe and fun trip!

Having spent 80% of my childhood outdoors, I am more connected to nature than I am with the internet. Which is why I love writing guides on survival, outdoor, prepper gears and tools.