When you're packing for a camping trip or putting together your Bug Out Bag, you will obviously pack something to help start a fire. Flint and steel, ferrocerium rod, lighter, or even a simple Fresnel lens- they are all great choices.
Here's something I've been using for years: Dryer Lint. Your clothing dryer comes equipped with a trap to capture this lint to prevent it from starting a fire in the exhaust vent. It's a natural ignition source that you've probably been throwing in the trash. Recycle this as a resource by packing it in a zip seal bag and using it as tinder for starting your fire at camp. Remember to keep it dry. You can also add some petroleum jelly, effectively turning the lint into a wick to burn the petroleum (See our "Improvised Torch" video on YouTube). It lights easily with a few sparks, which is why it's so important to remove it from your dryer. I suggest using a "clump" at least the size of your fist the same way you'd use a "bird's nest." Keep in mind it will burn quickly, but it is absolutely FREE!
Robert Snaav
6/7/2011 04:49:18 am
Hello -
Black Bag Resources
6/7/2011 05:20:21 am
Robert Snaav- Thanks for your question. I apply the jelly prior to going in the field. This allows the petroleum to burn and turns the lint into more of a wick, like we used in the "Improvised Torch" video. I find it does not flare and prevents small amounts of moisture from keeping it from lighting. I will caution everyone to make sure they wipe the petroleum off their hands before lighting for obvious reasons.
Mike Golbeowski
6/21/2011 02:29:12 am
Didn't know that was even possible. Now I know to keep the lint from my dryer instead of just throwing it out. Nice!!! Comments are closed.
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