Kerosene Lantern Alternative Fuel Types

Lamp Oil

• Specialized lamp oil is a refined petroleum product. The two commercially sold types include a highly refined grade for indoor use and a lesser grade for outdoor use. The flash point, the temperature at which the fuel will ignite, varies from 125 F to 150 F. Indoor fuels usually have a higher flashpoint, making them safer for indoor use. Lamp oils are clearly marked on the container when intended for outdoor use only.

Olive Oil

• Olive oil was one of the first lamp oils ever used and is 99 percent pure fuel. It burns without soot or smoke and is safe for those with asthma or chemical sensitivities. Olive oil is long-burning so only a small amount is needed to last for an entire night. The amount you use largely depends on the size of your wick. Olive oil can become rancid if left to sit too long, so only add as much as you need to the lamp reservoir.

White Mineral Oil

• White mineral oil, also sold as food grade or pharmaceutical grade mineral oil, can be safely used in an oil lamp. It's a petroleum product, but is highly refined and odorless. It's somewhat expensive for long term use, but can be used in a pinch when nothing else is available.

Citronella Oil

• Citronella oil is extracted from Citronella grass. It's commonly used in outdoor tiki torches as an insect repellent, and should never be used indoors due to its volatility. Citronella oil is toxic when taken internally, but can safely be applied to the skin to repel mosquitoes.

Vegetable Oil

• Any vegetable oil can be used in a kerosene lantern, even used oils, but they don't burn cleanly and may have unpleasant odors. It's best to use these outdoors.

Warnings

• Never use any of the following fuels in a kerosene lantern: benzene, gasoline, turpentine, Coleman fuel, naphtha, white gas, paint thinner or mineral spirits, and wood alcohol. The use of these highly volatile fuels can result in explosion, fire, injury or death.