There’s nothing quite like gathering around a glowing fire pit with friends and family, whether it’s a summer evening in the garden or a crisp autumn night under the stars. But what you choose to burn can make all the difference to the warmth, ease, and enjoyment of your fire.
At Homefire, we’re often asked: What’s the best fuel for fire pits? Here's what we recommend, and why it matters.
Why the Right Fuel Matters
The fuel you use affects everything, from how easy it is to light the fire to how much smoke it gives off, to how long it lasts. Choosing the right fuel means:
- Less smoke and sparks
- More consistent, reliable heat
- A better experience for you and your guests
- Less mess to clean up afterwards
Best Overall: Kiln-Dried Logs
If you're looking for the perfect fire pit fuel, kiln-dried logs are the top choice.
These logs have been dried to a low moisture content (typically below 20%), meaning they light easily, burn hotter, and produce much less smoke than unseasoned or wet wood. Plus, they’re better for the environment - ideal for more sociable, smoke-free evenings.
Top benefits of kiln-dried logs:
- Clean, bright flame
- Long, steady burn
- Low smoke and minimal spitting
- Suitable for most fire pits, chimineas, and open fires
Want it Hotter or Longer-Lasting? Try Heat Logs
For those who want maximum heat output with minimal effort, heat logs are a brilliant alternative or addition to kiln-dried wood. Made from compressed wood waste (like sawdust or wood chips), heat logs are super dry and incredibly dense, so they burn longer and hotter than standard logs.
They’re a great choice for:
- Extended evenings outdoors
- Cold nights when you need extra warmth
- Efficient, easy-to-stack storage
Tip: Start with kindling and a few kiln-dried logs, then add a heat log once the fire’s going strong.
What to Avoid
Not all wood is created equal. Avoid burning:
- Wet or green logs – These are harder to light and create lots of smoke and residue.
- Painted or treated wood – Burning these can release toxic fumes.
- Household rubbish – It may seem convenient, but it’s dangerous and polluting.
Always look for the “Ready to Burn” certification to ensure your firewood is safe and efficient.
Fire Pit Fuel Starter Kit
To make it easy, we recommend building your fire pit setup with:
- Kindling Wood - For a quick and reliable start
- Kiln-dried Logs - For a clean, bright flame
- Heat Logs - For long-lasting heat
Natural firelighters – No harsh chemicals or unpleasant smells.
Enjoy the Glow, Not the Smoke
At Homefire, all of our kiln-dried logs and heat logs are designed to give you the best possible fire, whether you’re sitting around a fire pit, lighting a chiminea, or fuelling an indoor stove.
Looking for a convenient, eco-friendly fuel that’s clean, consistent, and easy to use?
Explore our kiln-dried logs and heat logs today.
