In the realm of Minecraft, automated farms are among the most beneficial constructs that players can create. These farms range from straightforward designs to complex machinery, making them invaluable for reducing the repetitive nature of gathering resources. Popular examples include automatic sugarcane farms, gold farms, iron farms, and even experience (XP) farms that enhance player efficiency.
A Reddit user known as Fit-Dad50 recently shared a GIF on the Minecraft subreddit that showcased an innovative design for a lava farm. At first glance, one might consider a lava farm somewhat unnecessary since lava sources are plentiful in underground pools. Nevertheless, establishing a convenient farm that continuously provides a reliable fuel source can significantly enhance the gameplay experience.
In the past I’ve used huge lava farms with a ton of cauldrons and dripstone. This setup though.. [Bedrock] by u/Fit-Dad50 in Minecraft
The proposed design is quite straightforward, consisting of a sponge, a cauldron, a dripstone filled with lava, and a water dispenser. This specific farming method operates only in the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft, and it is best constructed in arid biomes like Savanna, deserts, or Badlands, as it necessitates the sponge to dry quickly. When water dispensed from the right side touches the sponge, it effectively fills the cauldron with lava.
Comment by u/Fit-Dad50 from discussion in Minecraft
In response to Fit-Dad50’s innovative post, a user named hannican expressed enthusiasm for the idea, indicating an eagerness to implement it. However, they sought clarification on how the mechanism operates, particularly how the sponge’s drying process leads to filling the cauldron with lava.
Comment by u/Fit-Dad50 from discussion in Minecraft
Another user, minerat27, provided insight into the mechanics of the farm design, clarifying that in the Bedrock Edition, cauldrons can be filled with water positioned above them. In this specific setup, the sponge’s absorption of water occurs instantly, causing the cauldron to fill with lava from the dripstone positioned overhead.

Inquiries arose from other Redditors, such as Yeet123456789djfbhd, questioning whether this irrigation method could lead to the manufacturing of lava. Gamemode_Cat noted that this lava generation technique has been recognized since the introduction of dripstone into the game. Additionally, Sam858 highlighted the cleverness of the design, pointing out how the sponge’s drying mechanism adjacent to the lava further resets the system seamlessly.
Exploring Automatic Farms and Complex Machinery in Minecraft

Minecraft offers a variety of items, such as redstone and its components, which empower players to construct complex and often astonishing machines. Although the lava generator’s design is relatively simple, many other automated farms can expand to cover vast areas composed of hundreds of blocks.
Notably, by skillfully utilizing basic redstone elements like repeaters, comparators, and observers, creative players have engineered supercomputers within the game that possess remarkable processing capabilities. These advanced constructs can even run classic games like Minesweeper and serve as functional displays within the Minecraft environment.