How Does Tinder Help You Start A Fire?
There's more to lighting a fire than kerosene and good wood. To get a fire started you also need tinder and kindling. In this article, we will discuss what tinder is and how it can help you create the best fire possible.
Tinder is anything that is highly flammable and sparks quickly. Because these materials, like wood shavings or small sticks, light quickly, they also burn out fast. Kindling, on the other hand, is a thicker material that is usually lit by tinder and helps keep the larger logs lit in your fireplace or fire pit.
While it may be easier to find small sticks or copy paper that lights quickly, you cannot use those things to sustain a fire. Tinder is the first step to building a good fire—once you get a small flame going with tinder, add kindling. After the kindling is burning at a steady rate, add your main fuel logs to build a stable fire that lasts.
Wood shavings, cotton balls, dead leaves, or even copy paper can be used as tinder. Whenever possible, choose natural tinder. Man-made materials—like used copy paper—may contain inks or chemicals that release harmful fumes when burned. If you use copy paper, treat it as a last resort and ensure it’s free of ink.
With these tips, you should be able to get a roaring fire started in no time. If you have any other questions, give us a call at 800.203.1642.
