What are firelighters made from?

What Are Firelighters Made From?

Firelighters are a quick, easy, and reliable way to get fires going. But have you ever stopped to wonder what’s actually in them? From the common paraffin cubes to eco-friendly alternatives, firelighters vary widely in terms of ingredients, safety, and environmental impact.

In this guide, we’ll explore what firelighters are made from—including paraffin/kerosene firelighters, natural firelighters, and Woodcycle’s recycled firelighter bags—so you can make a more informed and conscious choice.

1. Paraffin Firelighters

What Are They Made From?

Paraffin firelighters are made using a kerosene which is jet fuel. The kerosene is emulsified into solid normally into pieces or in the form of a tray like a chocolate bar where pieces can be broken off. You can also get

Key Ingredients:

• Kerosene (jet fuel)

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Mass produced easily
• Effective ignition

Cons:

• Non-renewable and fossil-fuel based
• Chemical smell when burning
• Produces toxic fumes
• Not ideal for indoor use or cooking

Paraffin firelighters are widely available but fall short when it comes to sustainability and air quality.

2. Natural Firelighters

What Are They Made From?

Natural firelighters are made from renewable and biodegradable materials. Most commonly, they use wood wool (thin shavings of wood) or sawdust, soaked in paraffin or plant-based waxes.

Key Ingredients:

• Wood wool or sawdust
• Paraffin or vegetable wax
• Sometimes paper wrapping or cardboard

Pros:

• Chemical-free and odour free
• Safe for indoor fires and cooking
• Renewable ingredients

Cons:

• Slightly higher cost than paraffin/kerosene
• Often messy

Natural firelighters are an ideal middle ground—clean, safe, and better for the environment.

3. Woodcycle Recycled Firelighters

What Are They Made From?

Woodcycle firelighters take eco-innovation a step further. They’re made from 100% recycled wood and recycled candle wax, wrapped inside a plastic-free paper bag.

Key Ingredients:

• Recycled wood fines (from waste timber)
• Recycled candle wax
• Plastic-free, compostable paper bag

These patented firelighters are produced in the UK with sustainability at their core.

Pros:

• Zero chemicals or artificial additives
• Odour-free and clean burning
• Sustainable and circular: made entirely from waste
• Plastic-free packaging
• Suitable for wood burners, BBQs, pizza ovens and more

Cons:

• Premium product (higher price per unit)

Woodcycle firelighters are designed for eco-conscious users who want maximum performance with minimal environmental impact.

Firelighter Comparison Table

Why It Matters

Knowing what firelighters are made from helps you:

• Choose a safer option for indoor or food use
• Reduce exposure to chemicals and toxins
• Support environmentally responsible products
• Improve air quality when lighting fires

Whether you’re lighting a wood burner, pizza oven, or BBQ, your firelighter choice matters—for your health, your home, and the planet.

About Woodcycle

Woodcycle is a UK-based company committed to creating premium, sustainable firelighters from recycled materials. With a patented design, Woodcycle firelighter bags are:

• Odourless & chemical-free
• Made from 100% recycled wood & wax
• Mess free
• Non toxic
• Ideal for indoor and outdoor use

If you’re ready to switch to a more conscious firelighting option, explore our range at www.woodcycle.co.uk

FAQs: What Are Firelighters Made From?

Q: Are paraffin firelighters toxic?
A: Yes, they contain Kerosene and produce toxic fumes. They're not suitable for cooking

Q: Can I compost natural firelighters?
A: Most natural firelighters are biodegradable

Q: Are Woodcycle firelighters better for the environment?
A: Yes. They’re made from recycled wood and wax and come in plastic-free packaging.

Q: What’s the safest firelighter for indoor use?
A: Woodcycle and other natural firelighters are the safest.