What you'll need
- 100% cotton balls
- Petroleum jellySee it on Amazon
- A small bag or old pill bottle
- 1
Test the cotton
Hold a flame to one cotton ball. If it melts instead of burning, it's synthetic and won't work.
- 2
Work in the jelly
Rub about a teaspoon of petroleum jelly into each ball until it's soaked but not dripping.
- 3
Pack them
Stuff them in a pill bottle or zip bag.
- 4
Use them
Pull the ball apart to fluff the dry center, then light it. It catches even from a spark.
Tips that make it easier
- Toss a bottle in every go-bag and car.
- Dryer lint works too, but it burns faster.
Mistakes to avoid
- Using synthetic cotton balls.
Affiliate links: I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Prices are typical and change often (~ means about).