How to Make Waterproof Matches

Waterproof matches are expensive, but you can make your own for only a fraction of the price. Listed below are a number of effective and proven ways to make waterproof matches you can use for camping, backpacking, and emergencies.

Note: All the methods below involve some risk. If you are a minor, do not carry out any of these activities, without the permission of a competent adult supervisor. The list is ranked from safest to least safe. The best and safest method is to use Turpentine. (Turpentine has a higher "flash point" relative to Acetone, which is commonly used in nail polish and does not involve the use of flame as is needed in the Wax or Paraffin methods.)

EditSteps

EditUse Turpentine

Pour 2 to 3 large tablespoons of Turpentine into a small (Tumbler sized) glass.
Place the matches, (Head down) into the Turpentine and allow the matches to soak for 5 minutes. During that time the turpentine will soak into the head as well as the stem. All the water will be driven off by the turpentine.
Remove the matches and spread them out to dry out on a sheet of newspaper. Generally, 20 minutes for excess turpentine to be evaporated is recommended. Matches treated in this way remain waterproof for several months or longer.

EditUse Nail Polish

Dip the head end of the match into clear nail polish far enough to cover at least an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) of the stick below the head.
Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the polish to dry and then place the match on a table or counter so that the head is suspended off the edge of the surface.
Place a sheet of newsprint below to catch anything that may drip off.

EditUse a Candle

Light a candle and let it burn down until you have a good amount of liquid wax (about a half of an inch or 1 centimeter).
Extinguish the candle.
Dip the head end of the match into the wax far enough to cover at least an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) of the stick below the head.
Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the wax to harden slightly and then place the match on a table or counter so that the head is suspended off the edge of the surface.
When the wax has cooled, but not completely hardened, pinch the end of the wax coating (towards the stick), forming a tight seal.

EditUsing Paraffin Wax

Melt enough paraffin wax in a double boiler to be able to coat with wax about a half of an inch (1 centimeter) deep.
Wrap some twine or jute string around several matches from the bottom, to just below the wax quickly. This makes a torch that can burn for 10 or more minutes.

EditTips

Turpentine has a relatively high "flash point" in comparison to Nail polish, therefore it is the safest to use. Mineral Turpentine, Pine, or Citrus turpentine all have the same waterproofing capacity.
The matches may also be completely covered with the wax to make sure water can't migrate up the matchstick.
The Nail Polish method is more volatile than Turpentine, but is better than wax that can more easily break or be scratched.
When using either of the wax methods, work as quickly as you can while still being safe so the wax doesn't harden.
Do not drink from the glass that you used to soak the matches.
If you don't use strike-anywhere matches, be sure to store a striking surface with your matches.
If you do not have a double boiler, you can melt the paraffin wax using a metal bowl over a pot of boiling water. You can also melt the wax in a pan on low heat, but this increases the chance of causing a fire.
Do not use a plastic cup to sit turpentine in, as it may be melted by the chemical itself.
Even though the matches will be waterproof, it is a good idea to store your finished matches & striker patch in a waterproof container, such as a small 35 mm film container, or any other sealable & waterproof canister.
Turpentine effectively displaces all hygroscopically absorbed moisture content. So any wood stemmed matches (regardless of age) can be used.
This should be done soon after buying the matches so that the matches don't pick up too much moisture from the air.
The candle method works best with wood stemmed matches. Do NOT USE with Plastic or Waxed stems.
Decant the remainder of the unused Turpentine back into the original container.
Make sure to transfer unused turpentine into recyclable plastic water bottles for safe storage, it is best to transfer outside in case of spills.

EditWarnings

Turpentine is poisonous if swallowed. or inhaled intensely over a period of time.
Always use caution when working with fire.
Paraffin wax is incredibly hard to remove from a pan. Use an old pan/double boiler or purchase one second-hand for this purpose. Alternately, use an old coffee can or #10 tin can set in a pot of water. Paraffin Wax is also highly reactive in the presence of introduced water droplets.
Wax in its liquid state is very hot and may cause severe burns. It may also catch fire.
Nail polish (and wax) can stain fabric and surfaces, so it is a good idea to cover your work surface in newspaper. Nail Polish is also highly flammable. Nail Polish is also a known carcinogenic substance.

EditThings You'll Need

Sturdy wooden matches (preferably the strike-anywhere sort)
Candles, Paraffin Wax, Nail Polish or Turpentine.
A saucepan or double boiler
Tongs or fork to dip matches into wax
Newspaper or other table covering
Small glass tumbler.
Fire extinguisher or fire rug.
Life insurance.

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