How to Make Newspaper Logs

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Last Updated: November 22, 2024 Approved

Reuse your old newspaper in a way that gives you some free fire fuel. Turning old newspaper into logs for burning is a great way to repurpose the paper and keep warm. There are various ways to make these logs, either free form or using newspaper brick maker.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Newspaper Section Logs

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A large pile from a week or two's reading should be a good start.
Each section should be folded to the size of half a page.

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Add a tablespoon of detergent to the water and mix gently.^{[1]
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Stand each roll on one end and leave to dry thoroughly.
Once thoroughly dry, the newspaper logs are ready for use. They should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Whole newspaper logs

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This method works only with a roaring fire, a fast drawing chimney, and fast burning fuel. Otherwise, the damp nature of these logs can put the fire out.

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These logs will still be damp and this helps them to burn more slowly, giving off a steady heat.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Newspaper Brick Logs

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These newspaper logs take around ten minutes to make (depending on the amount you want).

You will need a newspaper brick maker for this or create your own press with some wood.^{[4]
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Place into the bucket.^{[5]
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Compact down the newspaper squeezing out all of the water.^{[6]
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Let it dry on a wooden board.
The logs usually burn for 45 minutes.

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Question

Where can I order a new log press?

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There are several available on Amazon, including some that do more than one brick at a time.

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How long do the bricks take to dry?

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It should take 30 minutes to an hour. It's best to let them dry overnight though.

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What is the amount of ash build-up? Would adding scented oils to the water make a difference in smell?

Jerome Mathomane

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The amount of ash buildup in a smoker or grill varies depending on usage but should be regularly cleaned out to maintain proper airflow and prevent excessive ash buildup. Adding scented oils to water in a water pan can potentially add a pleasant aroma to the smoke, infusing a subtle scent into the food, but it may not significantly affect the overall smell of the cooking process.

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Tips

Do not use the second method damp logs on a newly lit fire, as these will smoke and burn poorly and might even put the fire out. If you don't have a strong chimney flow and good fuel build-up, use method number one.

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If the newspaper logs from the sections method get wet for any reason, simply stand them upright again to dry out before use.

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Warnings

Use only dishwashing or laundry detergent. Some harsh detergents are flammable.

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Do not close the primary air intake or the flue on the stove while burning the newspaper log.

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Be sure that you have removed all ink from the paper. When the newspaper log heats up, any remaining ink can potentially turn into a combustible vapor.

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