History Of Kitchen Matchbox

1
History Of Kitchen Matchbox
The history of kitchen matchboxes goes back to
the early stages of the 19th century, which are
closely related to regular safety matches. But
when we turn back to before the invention of
safety matches, people rubbed stones to start the
flame or used flint or rub sticks together to
create the fire. Friction match is the first
product which started the firing process, which
makes it more accessible for people on everyday
use. The demand for Kitchen Safety Matches
Manufacturers around the globe has been
increasing because of their market and usage.
People use kitchen safety matches for all
household purposes to have a safe and sound
ignition. The two critical match scientists who
invented the term matchsticks to the world - were
John Walker and Joshua Pusey.
Let's get to know more about the history of
kitchen matchboxes!
2
1. What is a kitchen matchbox?
A kitchen matchbox is a small container of a
matchbox primarily used for household purposes,
especially for kitchen purposes. They are
designed for holding matches protectively and
keep away from moisture and accidental
ignition. A kitchen matchbox looks rectangular,
which may be in a cardboard or plastic container.
It usually takes 2 to 3 inches in length and 1 to
2 inches in breadth. They are the best help in
lighting stoves, candles, gas burners and other
household/kitchen items that require a flame. It
provides a convenient way to begin a fire in the
kitchen or any other area where they are
stored. The matchbox is designed with a striking
surface, often on one side or the back of the
box. This striking surface is coated with a
material, such as a combination of red
phosphorus, powdered glass, and adhesive, which
creates friction and ignites the match when it is
scraped against it. 2. How did it become
popular? Inside the matchbox, the matches are
arranged in a row, with their heads coated in a
mixture of chemicals that ignite when exposed to
friction or heat. The match heads face downward
to prevent accidental ignition and are separated
from the striking surface by a small gap or a
material layer to ensure safety. It's crucial to
handle safely and store kitchen matchboxes,
keeping them away from flammable materials and
out of the reach of children. In 1826, an English
chemist and pharmacist, John Walker, accidentally
discovered the friction match while stirring a
mixture of chemicals. He noticed a wooden stick
dipped in this mixture ignited when scraped
against a rough surface. Walker named his
invention "friction lights" and sold them as a
novelty.
3
Kitchen matchboxes come in various sizes and
designs today, often featuring safety features
such as child-resistant mechanisms. They remain
essential in many kitchens, offering a convenient
way to start a fire for cooking, lighting
candles, or other household needs. 3. The history
to know The first kitchen matchboxes were simple
wooden containers that held the matches. These
early matchboxes were rectangular and had a
sliding lid. The matches were typically stored
with their heads facing down to prevent
accidental ignition.
Over time, matchbox design and materials evolved.
In the 1850s, manufacturers began using cardboard
for matchbox production, which made them more
affordable and lightweight. Additionally, the
matchbox design was refined to include a striker
surface on the outside of the box, allowing users
to ignite the matches directly from the box.
Leading Safety Matches Exporters
The kitchen matchbox became a common household
item by the late 19th century as matches became
more widely available and affordable. In
addition, they offered a convenient and reliable
way to light stoves, candles, and other household
items. With the improvisation of the digital era
and the increased availability of lighters and
other electronic ignitions, kitchen matchboxes
have declined in some parts of the world.
However, they
4
remain popular in many households and are
considered a reliable backup for starting fires
when other methods are unavailable. 4. The
inventors of Matchbox Joshua Pusey, an American
physician, improved upon Walker's invention in
1832 by replacing the sulphur in the match heads
with phosphorus, making them easier to ignite.
Pusey's matches were also more reliable and had a
longer shelf life. In the 20th century, matchbox
designs further evolved. The introduction of
safety matches, which required a specific
striking surface to ignite, included a
specialized striking strip on the matchbox. This
strip was usually located on the box's side or
back. Closure Thoughts Did you read the
importance and history of kitchen matchboxes? The
history goes long back before the 19th century,
people love to use matchsticks for their everyday
purpose, kitchen matchboxes play a huge role in
every household. Compared to other types of
matches, kitchen matchboxes were highly used for
kitchen/household purposes. FAQs 1. What are
kitchen matches used for? They are ideal for
stoves, candles, grills, fireplaces, and
campfires 2. What are kitchen matches made
of? The heads of kitchen matches are made of
potassium chlorate, mixed with sulphur, fillers
and glass powder. The side of the box contains
red phosphorus, binder and powdered glass.
3. Is there a difference between wooden and
kitchen matches?
5
Yes, there is a significant difference between
wooden and kitchen matches. From the purpose to
length everything differs from one another.