MadMajor :
Quick fuel guide for beginners:
Just to preface, many people use these oil lamps indoors. That's not to say that they don't also use them outdoors, but for enthusiasts looking to switch up their indoor lighting, you'll see oil lamps of many varieties. The main concern and cause for debate amongst enthusiasts regarding fuel types is A.) the smell of the fuel burning and being kept inside the house, and B.) the smoke given off when burning. Additional concerns include C.) stability of the flame and D.) color of the flame (to a much lesser extent).
-Clear Paraffin Oil (liquid paraffin) is one of the best fuels you can use and is a go-to for many lamp enthusiasts. It burns longer than most other oils/fuel sources, and is about as odorless/smokeless as you can get. The only downside is that it can harden and freeze if stored in colder temperatures depending on how much wax is within the oil, and the viscosity is higher, which some say hinders the oil's ability to be wicked from the reservoir to the top of the wick.
-Kerosene is usually cheaper and burns brighter than liquid paraffin, but at the cost of having strong odors/vapors and letting off more smoke. If you're going to use kerosene, use specifically K-1 kerosene and USE OUTDOORS.
-Citronella oil is best used outside. I'm sure you've heard of citronella candles, advertised to keep mosquitoes away. This oil operates similarly, but would not be ideal for indoor use.
-You can use olive oil, canola oil, and/or castor oil in a pinch, but their higher viscosity will hinder its ability to wick and will clog [the wick] up over time.
-Animal/whale oils and fats were historically used as fuel, but they are not efficient or sustainable. Not to mention, they stink to high hell (especially indoors).
2026-05-10 18:59:28