Don't Throw Me Away
Every lighter you save is a small victory against waste and a step toward a sustainable future.
650M
Disposable lighters sold yearly
Worldwide
150+
Years to decompose
In landfills
90%
Waste reduction
With refillable lighters
Don't Throw Me Away: The LightMyFire Guide to a Long Life
Each year, **billions** of disposable lighters are manufactured and end up in landfills or in nature. A single company like BIC sold over 2.5 billion in 2023. These objects, made of non-recyclable plastics and metal, can take centuries to decompose and risk contaminating soil and water.
The lighter isn't just a tool; it's a social object. By choosing a refillable lighter, you don't just reduce waste; you create a durable companion for your stories.
How to Recognize a Refillable Lighter (in 5 seconds)
It's very simple! The secret is almost always found under the lighter.
Butane Lighters (the most common)
Flip it over. Do you see a small, round metal valve in the center, similar to a tire valve? **That's a refill port!** Congratulations, your lighter is refillable.
Key indicators:
- ✓ Small round metal valve on the bottom
- ✓ Similar to a tire valve
- ✓ Most common type
Fluid Lighters (Zippo-style)
These are usually iconic metal lighters. If you can pull the entire inner block (the "chimney") out of the metal case, it is refillable. You will find cotton inside to soak with fluid.
Key indicators:
- ✓ Metal lighter (often iconic design)
- ✓ Inner block can be pulled out
- ✓ Cotton visible inside
Disposable Lighters
Flip it over. Is the bottom just a flat, sealed piece of plastic? This is a single-use lighter.
Key indicators:
- ✗ Flat, sealed plastic bottom
- ✗ No valve or removable parts
- ✗ Single-use only
How to Refill Your Lighter
⛽Type 1: Butane Lighters (with valve)
1️⃣What you need:
A can of butane gas for lighters.
2️⃣Where to find it (in Europe):
Very easy to find. Almost all **tobacconists** sell it. You can also find it in most supermarkets, convenience stores, or hardware stores.
3️⃣The method:
- Hold the lighter **upside down** (valve facing up).
- Firmly press the nozzle of the gas can onto the valve.
- Hold for 3-5 seconds. You will hear a hissing sound as it fills.
- Repeat in 2 or 3 short bursts until the lighter is full.
- Wait a minute or two before lighting.
💡 Pro tip: Always wear safety glasses when refilling. If you feel resistance, do not force it—wait a few seconds and try again.
🔧Type 2: Fluid Lighters (with cotton)
1️⃣What you need:
A can of lighter fluid ("Zippo fluid" or naphtha).
2️⃣Where to find it:
Also in all **tobacconists** and supermarkets.
3️⃣The method:
- Pull the metal insert out of the case.
- Lift the small felt pad at the bottom of the insert.
- Slowly pour the fluid onto the cotton underneath.
- Stop as soon as the cotton appears saturated (do not overfill).
- Put the insert back in its case and wait a few seconds.
⚠️ Important: Never overfill fluid lighters. Let the lighter dry for 24 hours after refilling before use.
Why It Matters
🌍 Environmental Impact
One refillable lighter can replace 50+ disposable lighters in its lifetime. That's 50+ lighters kept out of landfills for one person.
💰 Cost Savings
A quality refillable lighter costs €5-20 but lasts years. Disposables cost €1-2 each. Refillables pay for themselves within months.
❤️ Reliability
Refillable lighters are built to last decades. They're more reliable in cold weather and harsh conditions than cheap disposables.
🎯 Our Mission
Every lighter you save with LightMyFire gets a story. Give your lighter a name, and it becomes more than an object—it becomes a companion.
Ready to Save Your First Lighter?
Choose a refillable lighter, give it a name, and start its journey with LightMyFire.
Save Your First Lighter