If you’re new to camping, learning how to use a Coleman camping stove is one of the best skills you can master. These classic stoves are reliable and simple, but a quick guide can make your first time even easier and safer.
Let’s get you cooking outdoors with confidence. We’ll cover everything from setup and lighting to cleaning and troubleshooting, all in plain language.
How to Use Coleman Camping Stove
This section is your core step-by-step guide. Whether you have a classic two-burner propane model or an older liquid-fuel stove, these principles apply. Always start by reading your specific model’s manual.
Gather Your Gear and Choose a Safe Spot
First, find a stable, level surface. A picnic table or a clear patch of ground works. Never use the stove inside a tent, vestibule, or enclosed shelter due to carbon monoxide risk.
Keep it away from overhanging branches and flammable materials. Have your fuel, matches or lighter, and cookware ready. You’ll also want a windbreak if it’s breezy.
Connecting the Fuel Source
For propane stoves, this means screwing the cylinder onto the stove’s regulator valve. Turn the cylinder hand-tight—do not use tools, or you might damage the connection.
For liquid fuel (white gas) stoves, you’ll need to fill the tank. Do this well away from any flames. Use a funnel to avoid spills, and don’t overfill it.
Checking for Leaks (A Crucial Step)
Mix a little soap and water. With the propane cylinder connected but the stove valves OFF, brush the soapy solution on the connection point.
If you see bubbles forming, you have a leak. Tighten the connection and test again. If bubbles persist, do not use the stove.
Lighting the Stove
Follow these numbered steps for a safe, successful light everytime.
- Open the lid fully and lock it in place. It acts as a windbreak.
- Turn the burner control knob to the ‘Light’ or ‘High’ position. You should hear the hiss of gas.
- Immediately bring your match or lighter flame to the side of the burner. For push-button ignition models, simply press and turn.
- Once the burner is lit, adjust the flame to your desired height. If it doesn’t light right away, turn the gas off, wait a minute for gas to clear, and try again.
Controlling the Heat and Cooking
Coleman stoves often run hot. Start on a medium setting—it’s more like your kitchen’s ‘high’. Use a flat-bottomed pot or pan for best stability and heat transfer.
For simmering, you may need to use a simmer ring or move the pot to a cooler part of the grate. A lid on your pot will help food cook faster and save fuel.
Turning Off the Stove Safely
When your meal is ready, turn the burner control knobs fully to the ‘Off’ position. For propane, also turn the valve on the top of the cylinder clockwise until it’s snug.
Wait until the stove is completely cool before you try to move or pack it. This can take longer than you think, especially the grates.
Basic Cleaning and Maintenance
Wipe down the grates and surfaces after each use while they’re still warm (but not hot). A little soapy water and a scrub pad works well.
For stubborn grease, a paste of baking soda and water can help. Never immerse the stove unit in water. Ensure the burners are clear of debris, like old food particles, which can affect the flame.
Understanding Your Fuel Options
Coleman stoves primarily use two types of fuel: propane and liquid white gas. Knowing which you have is essential.
Propane Stoves: The Popular Choice
These are the most common. They use disposable 16.4 oz green cylinders or larger refillable tanks with an adapter hose. They’re incredibly easy to use—just connect and light.
- Pros: Easy, clean, minimal smell, ready instantly.
- Cons: Canisters are not refillable (typically), performance can drop in very cold weather, and you have to pack out empties.
Liquid Fuel Stoves: The Traditionalist’s Pick
These run on Coleman Fuel (white gas). You pump the tank to pressurize it before lighting. They are often favored for cold-weather camping and longer trips.
- Pros: Fuel is refillable and more cost-effective for heavy use, performs better in cold temps, fuel is widely available.
- Cons: More steps to operate, requires occasional maintenance like cleaning generators, potential for fuel spills.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even the best gear has hiccups. Here’s how to fix typical Coleman stove issues.
Weak or Yellow Flame
A healthy flame is blue and strong. A yellow, lazy flame indicates incomplete combustion.
- Cause: Often a clogged burner or air intake. It can also be caused by wind or low fuel.
- Fix: Turn off the stove and let it cool. Check the burner tubes for spider webs or debris (a common issue after storage). Clean them with a pipe cleaner or compressed air.
Stove Won’t Light
You turn the knob and hear nothing, or you hear gas but no flame catches.
- Check your fuel level first. It might just be empty.
- For propane, ensure the cylinder is properly screwed in. For liquid fuel, did you pump the tank 25-30 times to build pressure?
- If using a match, is the wind blowing it out before it lights the gas? Cup your hands around it.
- The ignition electrode might be dirty or misaligned. Clean it gently with a cotton swab.
Flame Blows Out in the Wind
Even with the lid up as a windbreak, strong gusts can be a problem.
Position your stove so the wind is hitting its side, not the front where the burners are. You can also create a additional windbreak with a cooler, log, or a specialized windscreen (ensure it doesn’t block ventilation or overheat the fuel tank).
Pro Tips for Better Camp Cooking
These simple ideas will make your meals tastier and your cleanup quicker.
Organize Your Kitchen
Set up a basic workstation. Have all your ingredients pre-chopped and measured at home in bags or containers. Use a small foldable table next to the stove for your tools and spices.
Always have a pot holder or glove and a lid lifter within reach. A roll of aluminum foil is incredibly versatile for making a quick windscreen or covering food.
Manage Your Heat
Remember, one burner can do most of the work. Use one for high-heat cooking like boiling water or frying, and the other for keeping food warm or simmering.
If you only need one burner, you can use the other side to warm tortillas or buns by placing them in a covered pan off the flame. This saves fuel and prevents burnt bread.
Cleaning Up Smart
Clean as you go. While your main dish is cooking, wash the prep bowls and utensils. A collapsible sink with biodegradable soap makes this easy.
For super greasy pans, sprinkle a bit of dirt or sand to scrub out the grease before washing with water. It sounds odd, but it works well and is Leave No Trace friendly when done properly away from water sources.
Storing Your Stove for Longevity
Proper storage prevents problems next season. Don’t just shove it in the garage dirty.
- Clean Thoroughly: Give it a final clean to remove all food grease and dirt.
- Run it Dry (for liquid fuel): Operate the stove until the fuel is completely gone. This prevents old fuel from gumming up the generator.
- Disconnect Propane: Always remove the disposable cylinder for storage. Store cylinders outside, not in a hot shed or your house.
- Store in a Dry Place: Keep it in its original box or a plastic bin to keep dust and pests out. A cool, dry place is ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I set up a Coleman camp stove?
Find a level spot, connect your fuel securely, check for leaks with soapy water, open the lid, and follow the lighting instructions. Always start with a clean, debris-free stove.
Can you use a Coleman stove inside?
No, you should never use any camping stove designed for fuel combustion inside a home, tent, camper, or any enclosed space. It produces carbon monoxide, which is a deadly, odorless gas.
What is the best way to clean my camping stove?
Wipe it down after each use while it’s slightly warm. For deep cleans, use mild soapy water on the surfaces and a needle or pipe cleaner to clear burner holes. Never submerge the stove body.
Why is my Coleman stove not getting hot enough?
This is usually due to low fuel pressure (pump your liquid fuel tank more), a nearly empty fuel cylinder, a clogged burner, or extremely windy conditions. Check these factors first.
How long does a Coleman fuel canister last?
A standard 16.4 oz propane cylinder will last about 1 to 2 hours on high heat. Boiling water uses fuel faster than simmering. For a two-burner stove, plan for about an hour of total cook time per cylinder to be safe.
Are Coleman stoves easy to use for beginners?
Absolutely. Propane models in particular are very straightforward. The key is to practice setting it up and lighting it once in your backyard before you go camping. This builds confidence.
Mastering your Coleman stove turns meal time from a chore into a highlight of your trip. With these steps and tips, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying good food and the great outdoors. Remember, safety is the most important ingredient—take your time with setup, always check for leaks, and never compromise on ventilation. Now, go fire it up and get cooking.