ENERGITA Artisanal Fire Starter Sticks, 125-Pack

If you’ve ever tried to start a fire from scratch, you know it can be tough. Even if you can get the wood burning, keeping it burning is an ongoing challenge. You move logs around, add kindling and still, the fire keeps going out.

That’s where fire starter sticks can help. These sticks combine a variety of materials to start a fire much more quickly than wood could alone. The build of each type of fire starter varies, but if you’re looking for the most natural option, you’ll probably want to start with those that are partly made from wood. Here are some of the most popular fire starter combinations:

• Resin: Trees secrete a natural substance called resin that is highly flammable. That makes it great as natural fuel, but it’s also combined with wood to create fire starter sticks.
• Wax and biomass fibers: Candles use wax, but by combining wax with biomass fibers, some manufacturers create a fire starter that lights quickly and burns for about a half an hour.
• Charcoal: If you’ve used an outdoor grill, you’re probably familiar with the benefits of charcoal as a flame source. The problem with charcoal is that it can be noxious, so it’s not the best option as you’re sitting around a campfire.

• The problem with fire starters is that you’re typically sitting nearby while they’re burning. So it’s important to pay close attention to the fumes that will be emitted from them.
• Sustainability is a priority for many consumers. Luckily, many manufacturers are well aware of this and have put measures in place to ensure their fire starters are sourced responsibly. Many fire starters are extracted from discarded trees or discarded parts of trees.
• Chemicals can be an issue with fire starters. Look to make sure the product you’re buying is made from natural materials.
• Odors can be a problem when you’re trying to enjoy time around the campfire. Some fire starters are designed to be odor-free, while others emit a more pleasant scent. Pay attention to this before making a purchase.
• Resin can tend to start a fire quicker than starters that rely on wax mixes. But wax mixes can burn a while. Look not only at how quickly your fire starter takes to light, but also how long that fire will burn once it’s started.
• Some fire starters are more compact than others. This smaller size will make it easier to store, particularly if you’re buying in bulk. Make sure you have enough room to store the fire starters you purchase.