How to make matches waterproof

Video: How To Make Super Waterproof and Windproof Matches at Home

Content

Steps
Method 1 of 4: Use turpentine
Method 2 of 4: Use nail polish
Method 3 of 4: Use a candle
Method 4 of 4: Use hard paraffin wax
Tips
Warnings
What do you need

Waterproof matches are usually expensive. You can make them yourself for almost a penny.Below are some effective and proven methods for making waterproof matches that you can use on camping trips, camping trips, or in case of emergencies.

Attention: all of the methods described below are somewhat risky. If you are a minor, do not use any of the methods without the permission of adults who have sufficient experience in this matter. The list is compiled from the safest to the least secure. The best and safest the method is to use turpentine. (Compared to acetone, which is commonly used in nail polish, turpentine has a high flash point. Also, it does not need the presence of fire, as in methods with wax or paraffin.)

Steps

Method 1 of 4: Use turpentine

1 Pour 2-3 tablespoons of turpentine into a small glass.
2 Dip matches (head down) in turpentine and let matches for 5 minutes to soak.During this time, the turpentine is absorbed into the head of the match and into the rod of the match itself. All water will be repelled from the surface by turpentine.
3 Remove the matches from the turpentine and lay them out to dry on a piece of newspaper. It is usually recommended to wait 20 minutes for the excess turpentine to evaporate. Matches treated in this way will remain waterproof for several months, possibly longer.

Method 2 of 4: Use nail polish

1 Dip the heads of the matches into clear nail polish 3 mm below the head of the matches.
2 Hold the matches for a few seconds to allow the varnish to dry and then place the matches on a table or work surface so that the heads of the matches are in weight.
3 Place a sheet of paper underneath in case anything drips.

Method 3 of 4: Use a candle

1 Light a candle and let it burn until you have enough liquid wax (about half an inch or 1 cm).
2 Put out the candle.
3 Dip the head of the match in wax so that it covers at least 3 mm of the match below the head.
4 Hold the match for a few seconds so that the wax can harden evenly and then transfer the match to a table or work surface so that the heads of the matches are in weight.
5 When the wax has cooled but is not yet fully cured, squeeze the wax-coated tip (along the match) to form an airtight seal.

Method 4 of 4: Use hard paraffin wax

1 In a double boiler, melt enough hard paraffin so that you can drop a match about 1 cm into it.
2 Tie a few matches with twine or jute and quickly dip into the wax. So, you get a torch that can burn for up to 10 minutes.

Tips

Turpentine has a much higher "flash point" than nail polish, so it is safer to use. Petroleum turpentine, pine turpentine or citrus turpentine all have waterproof qualities.
You can also completely wax the matches to make sure the head doesn't get damp if the match gets wet.
Nail polish is less reliable than turpentine, but more reliable than wax, which can easily peel off or peel off.
When using the wax method, do it as quickly as possible before it hardens, but be careful when doing this.
If you are not using matches that can be struck on anything, be sure to keep the striking matches.
Do not drink from the glass you dipped the matches into.
Do not put turpentine into a plastic cup, as the turpentine may start to dissolve it.
Turpentine copes well with all elements that absorb moisture. Therefore, you can use any wooden matches (no matter how old they are).
Even though the matches will be waterproof, it is a great idea to put the matches and strikes in a waterproof container. For example, a small 35mm film container or any other sealed and waterproof container.
If you don't have a steamer, you can melt hard wax in a metal bowl by placing it in a pot of boiling water. You can also melt the wax in a skillet over low heat, but this increases the likelihood of a fire.
Matches need to be processed soon after purchase so that they do not have time to pick up moisture from the air.
The candle method works best with wooden matches. DO NOT USE with plastic matches or wax rods.
Drain the remaining turpentine into the container in which it was stored.

Warnings

Always use caution when working with fire.
If it is swallowed or inhaled for a long time, turpentine becomes poisonous.
The wax is “incredibly” difficult to scrape off the pan. For these purposes, use an old skillet, a double boiler, or order a skillet that you have already used. Alternatively, use an old coffee can or a tin can, which must be dipped in a pot of water. Paraffin wax also keeps water droplets out.
When liquid, the wax is very hot and can cause severe burns. It can also ignite a fire.
Nail polish (and wax) can stain, so cover your work surface with newspaper. Nail polish is also flammable. It is also known as a carcinogen.