subject: Storing Accessory-equipped Lighters [print this page] Many lighters, especially cigar and pipe lighters, are fitted with various accessories designed to make lighting up a more convenient experience. These lighters are often fairly expensive.
Butane torch lighters and liquid fuel filled lighters are both available with attachments aimed toward particular types of smokers. To make certain that the lighter and the attachments remain in good condition, there must be some attention paid to how the lighter is stored when it's not used for a long while. There are accessories that can protect lighters from damage during storage which are very affordable and widely-available.
Storing a refillable lighter which is possessed of ornate and delicate finishes and accents requires a soft storage case with a hard exterior. Many models come with a case specifically-designed to hold the lighter and this should be retained. This applies to butane and liquid fuel lighters. These storage cases cost no money as the lighter is shipped in them and make it easy for the owner to ensure the safety of their investment.
The more rugged lighters need less attention than do the elegant models but, to preserve the finish, they should at least be stored away from other items which may scratch or chip away at the finish. Keeping them in a box or a drawer filled with junk is certainly not advisable. One should make certain that their lighter is at least kept in a soft cloth, if it is a butane model. This is not advisable, however, for liquid-fueled lighters as the fuel may seep out and saturate the cloth, creating a fire hazard.
Cigar cutter lighters, pipe lighters and other lighters with delicate attachments affixed to their surfaces require special considerations. First and foremost, make certain that the cutter on any so-equipped lighter is always stored in the closed position. These devices can be quite sharp and reaching into a box with an open cutter can result in a nasty surprise! Keeping the cutter closed also preserves the edge of the blade. Tamping and cleaning accessories attached to any lighter should also be kept in a closed position to avoid damage. These implements can be quite fragile and can be bent or broken if handled incorrectly. Make certain that there is no dirt or debris in any storage area. Over time, it can work its way into the mechanical elements of the lighter and result in damage.
