Tiki torches are a beautiful way to add a tropical flair to any outdoor gathering. They provide festive lighting and a sense of being in a tropical paradise instead of just in your backyard. Because tiki torches are relatively inexpensive they are a great low cost way to create a mood for a party or just to add ambiance for while you are relaxing in your backyard after a long day at work or over the weekend.
Traditional tiki torches are made from bamboo, although today there are many other styles to choose from which are usually made from some sort of metal. Traditional bamboo tiki torches are around 5 feet tall, although the height can vary slightly depending upon what style of tiki torch you buy.
Bamboo tiki torches usually have a pole made from bamboo or another natural material with a plastic bottle at the top of the pole hidden away inside a woven cover. On top of the woven section of the tiki torch there is usually a black metal “roof” or cap that covers it. A heavy wick is threaded down through a hole in the top of the metal cap and into the plastic bottle. Inside the plastic bottle there is fuel which helps the tiki torch to burn more efficiently. You simply light the section of the wick that is sticking out of the top of the cap and you can have light for a long time.
If the wick grows too short you can pull additional wick up from inside the plastic bottle, making sure that the torch is not lit while you do this.
Although bamboo tiki torches are beautiful, they do have their drawbacks. The largest problem with bamboo tiki torches is that they pose a fire hazard. The pole of the torch is long and the bottle at the top is quite heavy so it makes them top heavy and easy to knock over if they are not firmly planted in the ground. Tiki torches should always be kept away from children and flammable objects and you should keep a fire extinguisher on hand at all times when you are burning them in case of accidents. You should also wash off any spilled fuel or dirt from the outside of the tiki torch using a mild detergent to help keep them safer to burn.
Tiki torches should be stored in a cool, dry place when not in use and you should take care to ensure that the wicks are covered while you store them. Before you use a tiki torch inspect it for leaks or cracks to make sure that it will be safe to use. Never use any fuel in the tiki torch that is not specifically sold to be used in it.
As long as you properly care for your tiki torches and take precautions to prevent fire they are a beautiful way to give your yard a unique, festive look that will be sure to provide you with a lot of enjoyment.
