Fuels Guide
Safetyfiresafety
Not all fuels are equal. The wrong fuel can injure you or your audience.
Recommended
- Paraffin / lamp oil — the standard. Low volatility, cool burn, minimal soot. Used by 90% of fire spinners.
- Ultra-pure paraffin (Isopar) — cleaner burn, less smell. Preferred for indoor or close-quarters performance.
Avoid
- Petrol / gasoline — explosive vapours, burns hot, can ignite at a distance. Never use.
- Alcohol / methylated spirits — invisible flame. Very dangerous.
- Lighter fluid — too volatile, unpredictable.
Fuelling up
- Dip wicks in fuel for 30-60 seconds
- Spin off excess fuel away from people and flames
- Keep the fuel container sealed and 5m+ from any fire
- Never refuel a hot prop