How To Waterproof Matches (4 Simple & Effective Methods)

Matches are useful for starting a fire and can come in handy during camping trips, power outages, or emergency situations.

But when exposed to water and other elements, they become useless. To ensure matches remain reliable in any situation, it’s important to waterproof them.

How To Waterproof Matches

If you’re planning on spending any time outdoors, having some waterproof matches on hand is a good idea.

Whether you’re headed into the woods for a camping trip or venturing out onto the water for a day of fishing, being prepared with matches that will light even in wet conditions can be the difference between getting a fire started and being stuck in the dark.

Thankfully, there are a few ways to waterproof your matches, so they’ll be there for you when you need them most. Here’s a look at how to do it:

DIY Waterproof Matches: Why Do We Need Fire Anyway?

We all know that fire is essential for survival. But why is that? What does fire do for us that we can’t live without?

For one, fire provides warmth. In cold climates, fire is necessary for keeping our bodies warm enough to survive. Fire can help take the edge off a chilly night, even in warmer temperatures.

Fire also provides light. Fire can help us see where we’re going and what’s around us at night. It can also help us signal for help if we’re lost or in trouble.

But fire’s most crucial function is probably cooking. Raw food is often hard to digest and can make us sick. Cooking food makes it much easier for our bodies to digest and get the necessary nutrients.

So, as you can see, fire is pretty essential. But what if you’re in a situation where you can’t build a fire? That’s where waterproof matches come in handy.

Waterproof matches are matches that have been treated with a waterproof coating.

This makes them perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Waterproof matches can be a lifesaver if you’re ever in a situation where you need to build a fire but can’t.

Method #1: Using Candles

If you’re looking for a way to waterproof your matches, one option is to use candles. This method is simple, effective, and doesn’t require unique materials or equipment. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare The Necessary Tools

Before you can waterproof your matches, you must gather the necessary supplies. This includes the matches themselves, some sort of container to hold the wax, and a way to melt it. You can use a microwave-safe bowl, a spoon to melt the wax, or a candle warmer.

2. Liquify The Wax

Once you have your supplies, it’s time to liquefy the wax. If using a microwave-safe bowl, heat the wax in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s completely melted. If you’re using a candle warmer, place the wax in the container and set it on the warmer.

3. Coat The Matchsticks

Once the wax is melted, it’s time to coat the matchsticks. Dip each matchstick into the wax, making sure to coat it thoroughly. You can then set the matchstick on parchment paper to cool and solidify.

4. Let The Wax Solidify

Once all of the matchsticks are coated, let the wax solidify. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. Once the wax is hardened, your waterproof matches are ready to use!

Method #2: Using Crayons

Crayons are a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to waterproof your matches. All you need is a bit of wax and patience, and you’ll be able to keep your matches dry no matter what the weather is like. Here’s how to do it:

1. Gather your tools.

You’ll need a few crayons, a heat source (a candle or lighter will work), and something to hold the matches while working with them. A piece of cardboard or a small dish works well for this.

2. Line up the matches.

You don’t want to melt more wax than you need, so it’s essential to have a plan before you start. Decide how many matches you want to waterproof, and then line them up on your working surface.

3. Melt and drip the crayon.

Hold the crayon close to the heat source until it melts, then carefully drizzle the wax over the matches. Try to coat the matches evenly, but don’t worry if there are some bare spots – the wax will still do its job.

4. Let the wax cool and harden.

Once all the matches are coated in wax, set them aside and let the wax harden. This usually takes just a few minutes.

5. Test your waterproof matches.

To ensure your matches are truly waterproof, try lighting one that’s been sitting in the water for a few hours. If it lights easily and burns evenly, you’re good to go.

Now that you know how to waterproof matches, you’ll be prepared for any wet-weather adventure. Remember to keep them in a safe, dry place when you’re not using them – otherwise, they won’t do you much good in an emergency.

Method #3: Using Nail Polish

Using nail polish is an excellent option if you’re looking for a way to waterproof your matches. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start by gathering your supplies. You’ll need a bottle of clear nail polish, a box of matches, and a surface to work on.

2. Open the nail polish and carefully paint a thin layer over the entire surface of the matchbox. Be sure to get all sides and edges, and try not to get any nail polish on the matches.

3. Let the nail polish dry completely before using the matches. Once it’s dry, your matches will be waterproof and ready for use, even in wet conditions.

With this simple technique, you can rest assured that your matches will stay dry and ready to use, no matter the conditions. So next time you’re headed outdoors, don’t forget to pack a bottle of nail polish to keep your matches safe.

Method #4: Using Turpentine

Turpentine is a natural product made from the resin of pine trees. It has many uses, one of which is waterproofing matches.

This can be helpful if you use the matches in an outdoor setting or any situation where they may come into contact with water.

To waterproof your matches, dip them in a small bowl of turpentine. Allow them to sit in the bowl for a few minutes so that the turpentine can saturate the matches.

Once soaked, remove them from the bowl and allow them to air dry. Once they are dry, they will be waterproof and ready to use.

Turpentine is also a great way to keep your matches from striking each other and causing them to break. Dip the end of one match into the turpentine and then strike it on the side of the bowl. This will coat the match with a thin layer of turpentine and prevent it from striking any other matches.

Turpentine is a great way to waterproof your matches and keep them from breaking. You can ensure that your matches are always ready to use with just a few simple steps.