Comparison: Best Wood To Use In Fireplace (Updated | Dec 18th)
As the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s nothing quite like the crackle and warmth of a roaring fireplace to make your home feel cozy. But have you ever wondered if you’re using the best wood for those mesmerizing flames? The right choice can mean the difference between a beautifully burning fire that warms your space and one that smolders disappointingly. In this guide, we’ll explore the top wood varieties that deliver maximum heat, minimal creosote buildup, and that perfect ambiance that makes your fireplace the heart of your home.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for natural fire starter: Pine Mountain StarterStikk 100% Natural Fatwood Firestarting Sticks
- Best for kiln dried hickory: Old Potters Kiln Dried Firewood – Hickory
- 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 waterproof fatwood: Better Wood Products Fatwood Firestarter Wooden Crate
- Best for quick ignite rolls: Ignite-O Fire Starter Natural Wood Rolls – 36 Pieces – Made in Germany – Sustainably Grown Wood – Non-Toxic Firestarter for Fireplaces
- Best for all-weather fatwood: 2lb Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks | 100% Natural Fire Starters for Campfires
- Best for mobile firewood storage: YQBRAO Rolling Firewood Rack with Wheels
- Best for long-burning logs: Duraflame 12-Pack Fire Logs for Indoor and Outdoor Use
- Best for cooking fire logs: Pine Mountain Roasting Logs
- Best for pellet fire starter: Tiki Fire Starter 10-Pack – Easy-to-Use Wood Pellet Fire Starters for Smokeless Outdoor Fire Pits & Indoor Fireplaces
Product Comparison: Best Wood To Use In Fireplace
Natural Fire Starter
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 convenient, all-natural solution for starting fires both indoors and outdoors. Made from 100% natural fatwood, these sticks are resin-rich and ignite easily with just a single match, eliminating the need for newspaper, kindling, or chemical accelerants. The 5-pound bag provides plenty of sticks for multiple fires, making it an excellent choice for regular fireplace users, campers, or anyone who enjoys outdoor bonfires. These firestarters are clean-burning and environmentally friendly, producing up to 80% less carbon monoxide than traditional firewood. The compact size makes them easy to store near your fireplace or pack for outdoor adventures. Simply place a stick or two beneath your logs, light, and enjoy a consistent, reliable flame that gets your fire going quickly every time.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- All-natural firestarter
- Lights easily with one match
- No chemicals or additives
- Works for indoor/outdoor fires
- Long-lasting 5-pound bag
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- More expensive than DIY options
- Can be messy with resin
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 Hickory Firewood delivers premium quality cooking wood perfect for smoking, grilling, or adding authentic flavor to your fireplace experience. Each log is carefully kiln-dried to optimal moisture content, ensuring a clean, hot burn with minimal smoke and maximum flavor production. The hickory variety imparts a rich, bacon-like flavor that enhances meats, fish, and vegetables, making it a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. These 8-inch logs are perfectly sized for most smokers, grills, and fire pits, offering convenience without sacrificing quality. The USDA certification guarantees that you’re receiving a product that meets strict standards for purity and safety. Each box contains approximately 16-18 logs, providing enough wood for multiple cooking sessions. The consistent size and dryness of these logs mean they light easily and burn evenly, giving you better control over your cooking temperature and flavor profile.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Kiln-dried for optimal burning
- Rich hickory flavor for food
- USDA certified quality
- Perfect size for smokers/grills
- Consistent moisture content
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price than local firewood
- Limited quantity per box
- Specific to hickory flavor only
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 offers an innovative solution for maintaining chimney safety and efficiency. This product actively reduces dangerous creosote buildup, which is a leading cause of chimney fires. The dual-action formula works by treating existing creosote deposits while minimizing new accumulation, creating a safer burning environment in your fireplace or wood stove. Using the CSL is simple—it burns like a standard fire log for approximately 90 minutes, during which time it releases special minerals that dry out and neutralize creosote. The non-toxic formula is safe for all wood-burning appliances and contains no harsh chemicals. The treatment continues to work for 1-2 weeks after burning, with some treated creosote possibly falling back into your fireplace. For optimal results, use one CSL every 60 fires. The included bonus Ignite-O Fire Starter ensures you can easily light the log without additional kindling or paper.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Reduces dangerous creosote buildup
- Easy to use like regular firelog
- Continues treating after burning
- Non-toxic and chemical-free
- Includes bonus fire starter
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not a substitute for professional cleaning
- Requires regular use for effectiveness
- May cause debris to fall into fireplace
Waterproof Fatwood
Better Wood Products Fatwood Firestarter Wooden Crate, 12-Pounds
Better Wood Products
Better Wood Products Fatwood Firestarter comes in a convenient 12-pound wooden crate, providing you with an all-natural solution for starting fires. Made from resin-rich pine wood, these fire starters are 100% natural with no chemicals or additives, ensuring a clean burn without harmful toxins. They are completely safe to use indoors or outdoors, making them perfect for fireplaces, wood stoves, campfires, and grills. One of the standout features is their ability to light even when soaked, as they are waterproof and can be used after submerging in water. The company also emphasizes their commitment to sustainability by never cutting live trees for this Fatwood. Simply place a few sticks among your kindling and light them for an effortless fire-starting experience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 100% natural wood
- No harmful chemicals
- Waterproof design
- Eco-friendly harvesting
- Works even when wet
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulkier packaging
- More expensive than alternatives
- Limited availability in some areas
Quick Ignite Rolls
Ignite-O Fire Starter Natural Wood Rolls – 36 Pieces – Made in Germany – Sustainably Grown Wood – Non-Toxic Firestarter for Fireplaces, Woodstoves, Campfires & Grills – Quick & Easy
Creosote Sweeping Log
Ignite-O Fire Starter Natural Wood Rolls offer a convenient and efficient way to start fires in seconds. Made in Germany from sustainably grown wood and plant-based wax, these fire starters are completely non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals. Each roll burns for approximately 8 minutes, giving you ample time to get your fire going without the need for kindling or accelerants. They are versatile and can be used for fireplaces, wood stoves, campfires, and grills, making them perfect for quickly prepping charcoal. These fire starters provide a clean, odor-free burn, ensuring that the natural scent of wood is preserved without affecting the taste of your food. Safe and reliable, they only release natural wood-burning odors and are ideal for camping, grilling, or home use.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Quick fire starting
- 8-minute burn time
- Sustainably sourced
- No chemical odors
- Versatile for multiple uses
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Limited quantity per package
- May require multiple pieces for larger fires
All-Weather Fatwood
2lb Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks | 100% Natural Fire Starters for Campfires, Firepit, Wood Stoves, Fireplaces, BBQ | Start a Fire w/Just 2 Sticks | Camping Essentials by Billy Buckskin (2lb Bag)
BILLY BUCKSKIN HOME & BEAUTY
Billy Buckskin’s 2-pound bag of premium Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks provides an excellent natural solution for starting fires. These sticks are 100% all-natural, harvested from naturally fallen tree stumps in the jungles of Mexico, ensuring no live trees are harmed. Packed with natural resin, these fire starters ignite easily and burn hot, making them ideal for wood stoves, fireplaces, fire pits, camping, and grilling. Each stick measures about 8 inches in length and varies in thickness, offering versatility for different fire-starting needs. Only 2-3 sticks are needed to start a fire, making this bag last for many uses. A standout feature is their ability to burn even when wet, thanks to their high resin content, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High resin content
- Works even when wet
- Eco-friendly harvesting
- Long-lasting supply
- Versatile for multiple uses
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Sticks vary in thickness
- Requires proper storage
- More expensive than some alternatives
Mobile Firewood Storage
YQBRAO Rolling Firewood Rack with Wheels, 24 Inch Heavy-Duty Indoor Outdoor Log Holder, Wood Storage for Fireplace & Patio, Waterproof & Rustproof
YQBRAO
The YQBRAO Rolling Firewood Rack with Wheels is a versatile solution for storing and transporting firewood both indoors and outdoors. Its 24-inch heavy-duty steel construction can support up to 500 pounds, making it ideal for those who need substantial wood storage. The rack features four smooth-rolling wheels, with two that lock for stability when needed. The 2-in-1 design allows you to switch between mobile and stationary setups with included feet. Its U-shaped frame with non-slip rubber feet ensures stability, while the rust-resistant coating protects against moisture. Assembly is tool-free, making it convenient for immediate use.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Heavy-duty construction
- Smooth rolling wheels
- 500 lb capacity
- Indoor outdoor versatility
- Tool-free assembly
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited 24-inch size
- Wheels might scratch floors
Long-Burning Logs
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 alternative to traditional firewood for both indoor and outdoor use. Each 4.5-pound log burns for up to 3 hours, providing long-lasting warmth and ambiance. These logs light quickly and become fully engulfed in flames in about 5 minutes, eliminating the hassle of starting a fire. Made from renewable wood sawdust and agricultural fibers mixed with wax and other combustible materials, they burn 80% cleaner than traditional wood. Perfect for open-hearth fireplaces, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, bonfires, or campfires, these logs provide a consistent, hassle-free fire experience without the mess of traditional firewood.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Long 3-hour burn
- Quick to light
- Cleaner burning
- No firewood storage needed
- Consistent performance
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not traditional firewood
- Limited crackling sounds
- Higher cost per burn
Cooking Fire Logs
Pine Mountain Roasting Logs, Cooking firelogs for Campfire, Fireplace, Fire Pit, Outdoor and Indoor Use, 6 Pack
Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain Roasting Logs are specially designed for cooking over an open fire, making them perfect for campfires, fire pits, or fireplaces. These logs are ready for cooking in under 5 minutes, allowing you to quickly prepare s’mores, hot dogs, and other light treats. Made with food-grade ingredients and USDA Certified Biobased, they ensure a safe cooking experience. Each carton contains enough logs for two uses, with three logs burning for up to an hour. These roasting logs are a clean and convenient alternative to traditional firewood, eliminating the need to carry and store hard-to-light bundles. They provide an authentic fire experience with the convenience of modern manufacturing.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Food-grade ingredients
- Quick to light
- Perfect for cooking
- Clean burning
- USDA certified biobased
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Shorter burn time
- Not for heating
- Limited to light cooking
Pellet Fire Starter
Tiki Fire Starter 10-Pack – Easy-to-Use Wood Pellet Fire Starters for Smokeless Outdoor Fire Pits & Indoor Fireplaces, Quick Lighting for Smokeless Fires, Ideal for Camping, Backyard, and Fireplaces
TIKI
TIKI Fire Starter 10-Pack offers an effortless way to start fires in both outdoor fire pits and indoor fireplaces. Each pack contains real wood pellets made from upcycled sawdust, providing an eco-friendly fire-starting solution. Simply light a single pack with a match to ignite your wood-burning fire in minutes, without the need for additional tinder or kindling. These lightweight 1-pound bags are perfect for camping trips or cozy nights at home. Made in Wisconsin, these fire starters eliminate the frustration of traditional fire-starting methods while using real wood for an authentic fire experience. They’re a must-have for anyone who enjoys the warmth and ambiance of a wood fire without the hassle.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Real wood pellets
- Lights with single match
- Works indoors outdoors
- No kindling needed
- Eco-friendly upcycled materials
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited number per pack
- Small size
- Not a fuel source
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 is the best type of wood for a fireplace?
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are ideal because they burn longer and produce more heat than softwoods. They also create less creosote buildup, making them safer for your chimney.
How do hardwoods and softwoods differ in performance?
Hardwoods are denser, providing a steady, long-lasting burn with high heat output. Softwoods like pine ignite quickly but burn faster and can leave more residue in your chimney.
Should I use seasoned or green wood?
Always choose seasoned wood, which has been dried for at least 6-12 months, as it burns cleaner and more efficiently. Green wood contains excess moisture, leading to more smoke and lower heat output.
Which woods produce the least amount of smoke?
Well-seasoned hardwoods like ash and birch produce minimal smoke compared to softwoods. Properly dried wood ensures a cleaner burn with fewer emissions.
Are there any woods I should avoid burning?
Avoid burning treated, painted, or pressure-treated wood, as they release toxic chemicals when burned. Also, steer clear of softwoods like cedar, which can spark excessively.
How can I tell if wood is properly seasoned?
Seasoned wood is lighter in weight, has cracks at the ends, and makes a hollow sound when knocked together. Moisture levels below 20% are ideal for efficient burning.
What is the most cost-effective wood for fireplaces?
Oak is a cost-effective choice due to its availability and long burn time. Buying in bulk and seasoning it yourself can also save money in the long run.
Can I mix different types of wood in my fireplace?
Yes, mixing hardwoods with a small amount of softwood can help ignite the fire quickly. However, prioritize hardwoods for sustained heat and efficiency.