Torch
Torch is the cheapest, most universal light source in Minecraft — emits maximum light with just a stick and one piece of coal.
Description
The device places against any solid surface — wall or floor — and burns indefinitely, never running out of fuel and never being extinguished by water or rain. It also melts snow and ice nearby, making torch placement an effective defrost tool for snowy biomes. Beyond ordinary lighting, players use it for the famous gravity-block trick: place one under a falling sand or gravel block and the sand breaks instead of stacking, an essential technique for mob trap design and dragon-egg collection in the End.
Java & Bedrock Guide
How to make and use a Torch in Minecraft
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1
Get coal or charcoal
Mine coal ore with any pickaxe, or smelt logs in a furnace to make charcoal. Either one works in the recipe.
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2
Make sticks
Place two planks vertically in the crafting grid to get four sticks.
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3
Craft the torch
Put one coal or charcoal directly above one stick in the crafting grid to make four torches.
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4
Place for light
Set torches on floors or walls every few blocks so the light level stays above 7 and mobs cannot spawn.
In Java Edition water washes a torch off and drops it as an item. In Bedrock you can place torches on some block faces, but not floating in open water.
Used in crafts
Frequently asked questions
How do you make a torch in Minecraft?
Place one piece of coal or charcoal directly above one stick in the crafting grid. Each craft yields four torches.
What light level does a torch emit?
A torch emits light level 14, one below the maximum of 15. Any light above level 7 stops hostile mobs from spawning nearby.
Can you place a torch underwater?
No. In Java Edition water breaks a torch and drops it as an item. Use sea lanterns or glowstone for underwater lighting.
Do torches ever burn out?
No. A torch burns forever and never needs fuel. It is only removed by water, a piston, or being mined.
What is the difference between a torch and a redstone torch?
A torch lights areas and blocks mob spawns. A redstone torch gives weaker light and mainly powers and inverts redstone circuits.
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