Underappreciated: Lighter Fluid Is More Than A Fire Starter
Article by Ray Cervantes
Lighter fluid is a chemical compound that was designed to start fires and aid in their sustainability. Butane is the most common form of the fluid and it can be found in outdoor grill mechanisms, torches, and most recognizably in cigarette lighters. Refillable Zippo lighters require lighter fluid to operate. This chemical is highly flammable and should always be handled with extreme caution.
It has slowly developed into a helpful resource within the home. Over time, many uses have been uncovered, aside from starting fires or lighting cigarettes. Cleaning various stains and surfaces has become easier using this chemical. For instance, stubborn black marks left behind on the kitchen floor from shoes can be removed by using a squirt of lighter fluid and a paper towel. Drawings on walls can also be eliminated. Ink, marker and crayon designs can be erased by placing a small amount of fluid onto a clean cloth and wiping away.
Nothing is more difficult to eliminate than chewing gum from surfaces and even hair. It can be put directly onto the wad of gum and after a few minutes the gum will dissolve. Then a towel can wipe away the remnants or a comb can remove softened gum from the hair. Removing stickers, tape, and sticky residue can also become an easier process by using this. Squirt a few drops onto the sticker, let soak, and then wipe away. Lighter fluid dries instantly, leaving no wet or oily spot on doors or furniture. Stainless steel items will also benefit from the cleaning effects of this chemical. Rust spots can be rubbed off stainless by wiping with fluid on a clean cloth. Then finish up by using another cloth to rub off the streaks left behind.
Pesky cooking oil stains that are left on clothing even after washing can seem hopeless to remove. However, once again, lighter fluid can be a lifesaver. Pouring a small bit of fluid directly onto the stained areas then rewashing will remove the spots. It is imperative to use a very small amount, as it is not recommended to place flammable liquids in a washing machine.
Obviously, more traditional uses for this product are those involving fire. Refilling lighters for cigarette and pipe smoking is the one of the most common of these. Using lighter fluid to light charcoal has always been a popular use for the compound, but modern times have seen this process decline. With the increased use of self lighting charcoal, the addition of fluid is not necessary.
No matter what the intended use of lighter fluid, it must be handled properly. It is a hazardous, flammable material that is incredible dangerous when swallowed, even fatal. It is vital to know and follow the proper precautions when handling and seek medical attention immediately in the event of an accident.
About the Author
Visit Lighter Fluids for more information or visit our blog at http://gift-for-man.us/learn-more-about-lighter-fluid/.