Power outages: this smart mason jar hack lights your home for hours

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• Why a mason jar match kit is a smart addition to your emergency supplies
• What you’ll need to build your jar match dispenser
• Simple steps to assemble the mason jar match dispenser
• Safety guidelines to keep in mind
• Where to place match jars and how to use them wisely
• Variations and extra ideas for your emergency match kit

When the lights go out, the scramble for flashlights and batteries is familiar. But a simple, low-cost trick using a mason jar and strike-anywhere matches puts reliable light within reach. This DIY matches-in-a-jar idea is compact, easy to make, and built for quick access during outages or emergency situations.

Why a mason jar match kit is a smart addition to your emergency supplies

Electricity interruptions can come without warning. A small, ready-to-use match kit gives you a backup light source and a way to start a fire for warmth or cooking. Unlike loose matches, a jar keeps them dry and organized.

It’s inexpensive, portable, and durable. A jar protects matches from moisture and accidental crushing. It also prevents scattered matches from becoming a hazard.

What you’ll need to build your jar match dispenser

• One clean mason jar with a removable lid insert
• Strike-anywhere matches or similar
• Medium- or fine-grit sandpaper
• A hole punch or sharp awl
• Scissors or a craft knife

You can swap materials based on availability. For example, the striking surface from a matchbox can replace sandpaper.

Simple steps to assemble the mason jar match dispenser

1. Remove the metal lid’s center insert and set the outer ring aside.
2. Trace the insert onto the sandpaper and cut out the circle carefully.
3. Poke a small hole in the sandpaper disk. Make it large enough for one match to pass through.
4. Fill the jar with matches but leave some space at the top so they don’t jam.
5. Place the sandpaper circle, rough side facing out, into the lid insert.
6. Screw the lid back on and test by gently shaking a match through the hole.

Tip: If you prefer a built-in striking stripe, cut it from a matchbox and adhere it to the lid insert instead.

Safety guidelines to keep in mind

• Store jars out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep matches dry and away from heat sources.
• Avoid leaving open flames unattended. Use stable holders for candles.
• Consider other lighting options too, such as LED lanterns and headlamps.

The Centers for Disease Control and other safety experts warn that candles can start fires. Treat them as a last resort and follow safe-burning practices.

Where to place match jars and how to use them wisely

Make several jars and place them in key locations. Handy spots include:

• Near the kitchen for quick access
• By a wood-burning fireplace or stove
• In a hall closet or emergency kit
• In a garage or workshop—kept separate from flammable materials

Use jars as a secondary light source or to ignite a fire when needed. Keep alternate lighting and battery backups for tasks that require safer, longer-lasting illumination.

Variations and extra ideas for your emergency match kit

You can customize the jar design for specific uses.

• Add a few emergency candles for indoor heat or ambiance.
• Include waterproof matches in a sealed bag inside the jar.
• Label each jar with its location and refill date.
• Create a compact kit with a striker strip and a tiny snuffer to extinguish flames safely.

Regularly check and refill your jars after use or at the start of each season to ensure readiness.