Can matches go bad? How do I use strike any-where matches?

Matches of almost any kind can lose their effectiveness and ability to strike. In most instances, it is caused by the material in the head of the match absorbing moisture from the air or condensation on the inside of the container in which they have been stored. Matches are cheap. There is NO reason to rely on old ones when new and fresh matches are so easy to get and to use. To waterproof matches even more than they may already be, dip the tips in melted paraffin wax to seal the heads. (Use ONLY the "strike anywhere" matches for this) Even then, the wooden stick of the match can still soak up moisture when exposed to excessive humidity due to rain, boating/kayaking/rafting splash, body sweat, etc. The best place to keep matches is in a regulation match box which IS waterproof in practically every scenario. Even better insurance is to carry two (2 for $1.00) disposable cigarette lighters in your pack or tackle box. When all else fails, you can always use them to light the matches. (Use the reluctant matches in the tinder you use to start a fire.) Who needs to rely on old fashioned and undependable matches when you can "flick your Bic"?

Strike Anywhere Waterproof Matches

look and see if they have a blue or white tip, then these are strike anywhere matches but they all so make waterproor matches that aer not strihe anywhere, (i made the same mistake too).

Got an old pair of army wool pants? If they don't strike on them, they ain't strike-anywhere

Matches go bad, after a while they absorb moisture.