4 Easy Ways To Make Waterproof Matches

pictures of purple and red matches with text overlay how to make waterproof matches

Waterproof Matches are a must-have piece of survival gear and are key to your survival in an emergency situation.

If you have a sense of adventure, there is one must-have survival item that you won’t want to leave home without.

Waterproof matches are not just a cool accessory to add to your camping, day hiking, or backpacking gear, they’re an essential survival fire starter tool, and you never know when you’re going to need them.

This is why you should spend a few minutes learning how to make your own DIY waterproof matches using everyday products like paraffin wax, candle wax, nail polish, crayons, and regular matches or even strike-anywhere matches.

Table of Contents

Waterproofing Matches
How To Make Waterproof Matches With Turpentine
How To Make Waterproof Matches With Nail Polish Or Shellac
How To Make Waterproof Matches With Wax
How To Make Waterproof Matches With Crayons
Wrapping It Up
FAQ about Waterproof Matches

Waterproofing Matches

Ordinary matches are powerful little sticks… until they get wet. Then, unless you have an awesome tool to light that fire, your adventure trip can quickly turn into a disaster.

But purchasing some waterproof matches or survival matches can be expensive, right? Do you really need the added cost?

The good news is, you don’t! You can create your own waterproof matches for little to no cost, and in this article, we’re going to show you how to make a match waterproof using common household supplies.

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How To Make Waterproof Matches With Turpentine

One of the safest ways to waterproof your matches is to use turpentine.

Here’s the super-easy method:

Step 1: Pour 2 to 3 large tablespoons of turpentine into a glass or container.

Step 2: Place your matches, match head down, into the glass.

Step 3: Leave them to soak for 5 minutes. This will allow the turpentine to soak into the match head and stem.

Step 4: When you take the matches out, spread them on a sheet of newspaper and leave them to dry for about 20 minutes.

Using this method, your matches will remain waterproof for at least a few months.

How To Make Waterproof Matches With Nail Polish Or Shellac

For this process, clear fingernail polish is the better option, but colored polish will work, too, if that’s all you can get your hands on!

Here’s how to turn your ordinary matches into waterproof matches with nail polish:

Step 1: Dip each match into the bottle of fingernail polish. Immerse some of the stick as well as the match heads.

Step 2: When you take it out, hold the match for a few seconds to allow the nail polish to dry.

Step 3: For proper drying, place the matches on a table with their match heads suspended a little off the edge. Make sure to put a newspaper underneath to catch any excess moisture.

If you’ve used quick-drying polish, this method can take less time than the turpentine method. If the polish isn’t quick drying, it may take a little longer.

All in all, this is a fairly fool-proof way to create waterproof matches.

How To Make Waterproof Matches With Wax

The power behind this waterproofing matches approach all comes from the melted candle was or from readily available paraffin wax that you can pick up at pretty much any everywhere, including your local hardware and grocery stores.

Here’s the full scoop on how to make matches waterproof with wax”

Step 1: Get some wax. You can use paraffin wax, a loose candle or even a candle in a jar.

Step 2: Light the candle and let it burn for a while. This is to allow a pool of candle wax to form around the wick.

Step 3: When you’ve enough wax, blow the candle out.

Step 4: Dip each into the wax, match head first. Immerse some of the stick too.

Step 5: Hold the match long enough to allow the wax to harden a little. A few seconds should do the trick

Step 6: Place the matches on a table so that each head is suspended off the edge of the surface. Remember to put a newspaper underneath to protect your floor from falling wax.

Step 7: When the wax has cooled down but before it has hardened completely, pinch the end of the wax coating where the stick meets the head. This will form a tight seal.

How To Make Waterproof Matches With Crayons

Crayons are made of paraffin wax and color pigments, making them an excellent waterproofing agent. When melted and applied to matches, the wax forms a protective layer that shields the match from moisture.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your matches waterproof using crayons:

Step 1: Choose a crayon. Any color will do, so feel free to pick your favorite!

Step 2: Peel off the paper wrapper from the crayon. You’ll need to expose the wax for melting.

Step 3: Light the crayon and let it burn for a few seconds. This will melt the wax.

Step 4: Carefully dip each match into the melted wax, making sure to coat the match head and a portion of the stick.

Step 5: Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the wax to cool and harden.

Step 6: For proper drying, place the matches on a table with their match heads suspended a little off the edge. Be sure to put a newspaper underneath to catch any drips.

Step 7: Once the wax has cooled but before it has completely hardened, pinch the end of the wax coating where the stick meets the head. This will form a tight seal.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it.

Making your own waterproof matches has never been easier using simple everyday items like candle wax, nail polish, paraffin wax, turpentine or shellac, and crayons.

Tip: Just in case you ever find yourself without matches… check out our How To Start A Fire Without Matches tutorial. Or, check out our lists of the best ferro rod and magnesium fire starters.

Grab your Free Everstryke Waterproof Match or Free Everstryke Pro… Good while supplies last.

FAQ about Waterproof Matches

What are waterproof matches?

Waterproof matches are a type of survival gear designed to ignite even when exposed to water. They are essential for outdoor adventures, camping, and emergency situations where traditional matches would fail due to moisture.

How do waterproof matches work?

Waterproof matches are coated with a substance that repels water and preserves the match’s ability to ignite. This coating can be made from various materials, including wax, nail polish, or a specialized chemical mixture.

How can I make DIY waterproof matches at home?

You can make your own waterproof matches using everyday household items. Some popular methods include dipping matches in clear nail polish, melted wax from a candle, or turpentine. After the coating process, the matches need to be left to dry before they are ready for use.

Are waterproof matches expensive to buy?

Yes, pre-made waterproof matches are substantially more expensive than regular matches. A cost-effective alternative is to make your own waterproof matches at home using materials you likely already have, like nail polish, wax, and turpentine.

How long do homemade waterproof matches last?

How long a homemade waterproof match lasts will vary depending on the materials used for waterproofing. For example, matches waterproofed with turpentine can remain effective for a few months, while those coated with wax or nail polish may last longer.

Are waterproof matches safe to use?

Yes, waterproof matches are generally safe to use as long as you handle them with care, just like regular matches. The waterproofing material is designed to burn off when the match is struck, allowing the match to function normally.

Can I use waterproof matches for regular indoor use?

While waterproof matches are primarily designed for outdoor use and survival situations, they can certainly be used indoors. However, they are expensive and might be a bit overkill for lighting a candle at your dinner table.

Are crayon waterproof matches safe to use?

Yes, crayon waterproof matches are safe to use. The wax burns off when the match is struck, allowing it to function normally.

Can I use any type of crayon to make waterproof matches?

Yes, any type of crayon will work since they are all made of paraffin wax. However, it’s best to use non-toxic crayons to ensure safety when burning.