Comparison: Best Fireplace Wood (Updated | Dec 20th)
Nothing beats the crackle and warmth of a real wood fire, but choosing the right logs can make or break your cozy evening. Whether you’re a seasoned fireplace enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of wood burning, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore the best woods for your fireplace, considering factors like heat output, burn time, and aroma. Get ready to transform your hearth into the ultimate gathering spot with our expert recommendations that’ll keep you toasty all winter long.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for clean-burning choice: Duraflame 6-Pack Indoor/Outdoor Logs for Fireplace & Fire Pit
- Best for natural fire starter: 10lb Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks | 100% Natural Fire Starters for Campfires
- Best for all-weather starter: Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks 10lb Box – Indoor or Outdoor 100% All Natural Pine Fire Starters for Campfires
- Best for premium kiln-dried hickory: Old Potters Kiln Dried Firewood – Hickory
- Best for bulk fire starter: Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks 25lb Box – Indoor or Outdoor 100% All Natural Pine Fire Starters for Campfires
- Best for long-burning firelog: Pine Mountain Traditional 4-Hour Firelogs
- Best for quick-light fatwood: Pine Mountain StarterStikk 100% Natural Fatwood Firestarting Sticks
- Best for bold flame firelog: Pine Mountain Quantum 2.5 Hour Easy-Light Firelogs
- Best for chimney safety solution: The Creosote Sweeping Log (CSL) with Bonus Ignite-O Fire Starter – Chimney Cleaner for Fireplaces and Woodstoves – Non-Toxic and Easy Cleaning Firelog
- Best for convenient pack firelog: Duraflame 12-Pack Fire Logs for Indoor and Outdoor Use
Product Comparison: Best Fireplace Wood
Clean-Burning Choice
Duraflame 6-Pack Indoor/Outdoor Logs for Fireplace & Fire Pit, 3-Hour Burn, 4.5lb Each
Duraflame
Duraflame 6-Pack Indoor/Outdoor Logs offer a convenient and reliable solution for creating warm, inviting fires. Each 4.5lb log burns consistently for up to 3 hours, eliminating the need for constant tending. These logs light quickly, reaching full flames in under 5 minutes without kindling or lighter fluid. They burn 80% cleaner than traditional wood, producing less smoke and soot, making them an eco-friendly choice. Perfect for both indoor fireplaces and outdoor fire pits, these UL-approved logs provide a hassle-free way to enjoy a cozy atmosphere. The 6-pack ensures you’ll have enough for multiple gatherings or relaxing evenings at home.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Long 3-hour burn
- Quick lighting
- Cleaner than wood
- Indoor/outdoor use
- Safety certified
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher cost than wood
- Less authentic crackle
- Not for cooking
Natural Fire Starter
10lb Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks | 100% Natural Fire Starters for Campfires, Firepit, Fireplaces, BBQ, Wood Stoves | Easy Ignition w/Just 2 Sticks | Camping Essentials by Billy Buckskin (10lb Box)
BILLY BUCKSKIN HOME & BEAUTY
Billy Buckskin’s 10lb box of premium fatwood fire starter sticks offers an all-natural solution for effortlessly starting fires. Sourced from high-resin pine stumps, these chemical-free sticks ignite instantly, even in damp conditions. Each approximately 8-inch stick varies in thickness, ensuring reliable ignition for fireplaces, fire pits, wood stoves, and campfires. With just 2-3 sticks needed per fire, this generous box provides numerous fire-starting opportunities. The fatwood produces a clean-burning flame with a naturally aromatic scent, enhancing your indoor or outdoor fire experience. Harvested from naturally fallen pine stumps, these eco-friendly starters combine convenience with environmental responsibility.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Works when wet
- 100% natural
- Long-lasting supply
- Quick ignition
- No chemicals
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher initial cost
- Requires storage space
- Variable stick sizes
All-Weather Starter
Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks 10lb Box – Indoor or Outdoor 100% All Natural Pine Fire Starters for Campfires, Fireplace, Firepit, Wood Stove, or BBQ Grill – Kindling Wood Firewood Lighter by Pure Garden
Trademark Global
Trademark Global’s 10lb box of fatwood fire starter sticks provides a reliable, all-natural solution for igniting fires in any setting. Made from 100% natural pine wood, these resin-rich sticks ignite quickly and burn efficiently, even when damp. Perfect for indoor fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, campfires, and wood-burning stoves, they eliminate the need for harmful chemicals or additives. Simply place 2-3 sticks among your firewood and light with a match for an instant, sustained flame. The 10lb bulk box offers excellent value and has a long shelf life, ensuring you’re always prepared for spontaneous fires or planned gatherings. These versatile fire starters are essential for any home or outdoor adventure.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- All-natural material
- Works when damp
- Long shelf life
- Versatile applications
- Bulk quantity
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires proper storage
- Inconsistent stick sizes
- Higher upfront cost
Premium Kiln-Dried Hickory
Old Potters Kiln Dried Firewood – Hickory, 1100 Cu. in, 16-18 Logs ~ 8″ x 2.5″ Logs. Cooking Wood for Grilling, Smoking, and Firepits, Hickory.
Old Potters
Old Potters Kiln Dried Firewood offers premium hickory cooking wood, perfect for enhancing your grilling and smoking experience. Each box contains 16-18 logs measuring 8″ x 2.5″, totaling 1100 cubic inches. The kiln-drying process ensures optimal moisture content for consistent, hot burning and maximum flavor infusion. USDA certified, this firewood meets strict quality standards for safety and sanitation. The hickory variety imparts a rich, smoky flavor that’s especially popular with pork and beef. These logs are perfectly sized for most grills, smokers, and fire pits, lighting easily and burning efficiently to create that authentic wood-fired taste that elevates your outdoor cooking.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- USDA certified quality
- Perfect size for grills
- Rich hickory flavor
- Kiln dried for consistency
- Lights easily
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Limited to hickory flavor
- Smaller quantity
Bulk Fire Starter
Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks 25lb Box – Indoor or Outdoor 100% All Natural Pine Fire Starters for Campfires, Fireplace, Firepit, Wood Stove, or BBQ Grill – Kindling Wood Firewood Lighter by Pure Garden
Pure Garden
Pure Garden’s 25lb box of Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks provides a reliable, all-natural solution for starting fires indoors or outdoors. Made from 100% natural pine wood, these resin-rich sticks ignite quickly even when damp, eliminating the need for harmful chemicals or additives. Each stick measures approximately 17.5″ in length, making them easy to handle and position. Simply place 2-3 sticks in your fireplace, fire pit, or wood stove, stack your firewood on top, and light with a match. The 25lb bulk box ensures you’ll have plenty of fire starters for multiple seasons of use, with a long shelf life that won’t degrade over time.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 100% all natural
- Works even when wet
- Long-lasting supply
- Easy to use
- No chemicals needed
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky storage needed
- Higher initial cost
- Requires proper handling
Long-Burning Firelog
Pine Mountain Traditional 4-Hour Firelogs, Easy Starter Logs, Long Burning Firelog for Fireplace, Campfire, Fire Pit, Indoor & Outdoor Use, 2 Pack
Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain Traditional 4-Hour Firelogs offer the perfect solution for hassle-free fireplace enjoyment. These easy starter logs light quickly when you simply ignite the wrapper, producing a bright, welcoming fire in minutes. Each log provides up to 4 hours of consistent burn time with big, bold flames that create natural ambiance. Compared to traditional firewood, these firelogs burn cleaner, producing up to 80% less carbon monoxide and 75% less particulate matter. Made from renewable resources, they offer an eco-friendly alternative to cordwood. The wrapped design ensures no-mess handling and convenient storage, making them ideal for both indoor fireplaces and outdoor campfires.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lights super fast
- 4-hour burn time
- Cleaner burning
- No mess handling
- Consistent performance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Less authentic than wood
- Limited to 4 hours
- Higher cost per fire
Quick-Light Fatwood
Pine Mountain StarterStikk 100% Natural Fatwood Firestarting Sticks, 5 Pound Natural Firestarting Wood Sticks for Campfire, Fireplace, Wood Stove, Fire Pit, Indoor and Outdoor Use
Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain StarterStikk Fatwood firestarting sticks offer a natural, chemical-free solution for effortlessly igniting your fireplace or campfire. Made from 100% natural fatwood, these 5-pound sticks are rich in resin, ensuring a reliable and consistent flame without the need for kindling or accelerants. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, they are portable, lightweight, and easy to store. The clean-burning formula produces less carbon monoxide and particulate matter, making them an eco-friendly choice. Ideal for camping, hiking, or cozy nights by the fire, these sticks provide a quick, authentic fire-starting experience with minimal effort.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Natural and additive-free
- Quick and easy to use
- Portable and lightweight
- Clean burning
- Versatile for indoor/outdoor
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Limited to 5-pound pack
Bold Flame Firelog
Pine Mountain Quantum 2.5 Hour Easy-Light Firelogs, 4 Count
Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain Quantum 2.5 Hour Easy-Light Firelogs deliver a bold, impressive flame with a long-lasting burn time, perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Made from real wood and produced in the USA, these logs light quickly and easily, eliminating the hassle of traditional firewood. The clean-burning formula reduces carbon monoxide and particulate emissions, making them an environmentally friendly option. Ideal for both indoor fireplaces and outdoor fire pits, these logs provide a hassle-free fire experience with minimal mess. Enjoy the authentic crackle and warmth of a real wood fire without the effort, thanks to Pine Mountain’s commitment to quality and convenience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Bold and large flames
- Quick and easy lighting
- Long 2.5-hour burn
- Clean burning
- Made from real wood
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher cost than wood
- Limited to 4-count pack
Chimney Safety Solution
The Creosote Sweeping Log (CSL) with Bonus Ignite-O Fire Starter – Chimney Cleaner for Fireplaces and Woodstoves – Non-Toxic and Easy Cleaning Firelog
Creosote Sweeping Log
The Creosote Sweeping Log (CSL) with Bonus Ignite-O Fire Starter is an essential tool for maintaining a safe and efficient chimney. This log actively reduces dangerous creosote and tar buildup, helping to prevent chimney fires. Its dual-action formula treats existing deposits while minimizing new accumulation, enhancing both safety and performance. Easy to use, the CSL burns like a standard log for about 90 minutes, with ongoing treatment effects lasting 1-2 weeks. Non-toxic and safe for all wood-burning appliances, it provides peace of mind for homeowners. Use every 60 fires to keep your chimney clean and your fires burning safely.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Reduces creosote buildup
- Dual-action formula
- Easy to use
- Non-toxic and safe
- Long-lasting treatment
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires regular use
- May cause debris fallout
Convenient Pack Firelog
Duraflame 12-Pack Fire Logs for Indoor and Outdoor Use, 3-Hour Burn, 4.5 Lb Each – Firewood Starters and Accessories for BBQ, Camping, Stove, Pit and Chimney
Duraflame
Duraflame 12-Pack Fire Logs offer a convenient and reliable solution for both indoor and outdoor fires, providing up to 3 hours of consistent warmth and ambiance. Made from renewable wood sawdust and agricultural fibers, these logs are easy to light and fully engulfed in flames within minutes, eliminating the need for kindling or accelerants. The clean-burning formula produces 80% less emissions than traditional wood, ensuring a spotless and enjoyable fire experience. Perfect for fireplaces, fire pits, or campfires, these logs are versatile and efficient, delivering an authentic wood fire with minimal hassle. Enjoy the warmth and glow of a real fire without the mess.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Long 3-hour burn
- Quick and easy lighting
- Clean burning
- Renewable materials
- Versatile for indoor/outdoor
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher initial cost
- Less authentic than wood
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What are the best types of wood for a fireplace?
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch are ideal because they burn longer and produce more heat. Softwoods like pine burn faster and can create more creosote buildup, so they’re better for kindling.
How do I know if the wood is seasoned properly?
Seasoned wood should have a moisture content below 20%, which you can check with a moisture meter. It will also feel lighter, have cracks at the ends, and make a hollow sound when tapped.
What’s the difference between kiln-dried and air-dried firewood?
Kiln-dried wood is dried in a controlled environment, ensuring low moisture and fewer pests. Air-dried wood is naturally seasoned but may have higher moisture content and take longer to dry.
How much firewood should I buy for winter?
A typical household uses 1-2 cords of wood per winter, depending on usage and climate. A cord is a stack 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long.
Are there any woods I should avoid burning?
Avoid burning treated, painted, or pressure-treated wood, as they release toxic chemicals. Green (unseasoned) wood is also a poor choice because it smokes heavily and produces less heat.
What’s the best way to store firewood?
Store firewood in a dry, ventilated area off the ground to prevent moisture and pests. Cover the top but leave the sides open for airflow.
Is buying firewood in bulk worth it?
Buying in bulk (e.g., by the cord) is usually cheaper per unit than smaller bundles. However, ensure you have proper storage space to keep it dry.
How do different woods compare in heat output?
Dense hardwoods like hickory and oak produce the most heat, while softer woods like poplar or aspen burn cooler. Check BTU ratings to compare heat efficiency.