Lighting a fire in a wood stove or fireplace doesn’t have to be a struggle. The right fire starter can make the process quick, easy, and hassle-free. From tried-and-true old methods like crumpled newspaper to modern, eco-friendly cubes, there’s an option for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the best fire starters and why they might be your new go-to.
1. Fatwood Sticks
Fatwood is the resin-rich heartwood often found in pine stumps. It lights quickly, burns hot, and doesn’t require any chemicals. You usually only need one or two sticks to get a good flame going. Because fatwood is all-natural, it’s a popular choice for those who want an easy and eco-friendly option. It also stores well—just keep it in a dry spot and it’ll be ready whenever you need it.
2. Wax and Wood Shavings
You can buy these pre-made or even DIY them at home. They’re typically small bundles of wood fibers or shavings held together by paraffin or soy wax. They burn slowly and steadily, giving your kindling time to catch. They’re great for stoves and fireplaces because they don’t produce a ton of smoke, and the wax helps them stay lit long enough to ignite larger logs.
3. Newspaper and Kindling
Newspaper is the old classic. Crumple up a few sheets, place them under small sticks or kindling, and you have a basic starter. The downside is that newspaper burns out fast, so you’ll need good airflow and well-arranged kindling to get a lasting flame. While it’s super cheap and easy, it might not be as reliable as some of the other methods, especially if you’re dealing with slightly damp wood.
4. Commercial Fire Starter Squares
Head to any hardware store and you’ll likely see pressed squares or cubes made from various recycled materials. They’re simple to use: just place one under your logs, light the corner, and let it do the work. They’re clean, convenient, and often odorless. While they cost a bit more than newspaper, they’re a solid middle-ground choice if you want something reliable without breaking the bank.
5. Electric Fire Starter
If you’re into gadgets, an electric fire starter could be your pick. It’s a wand-shaped device that blasts superheated air onto your wood. There’s no flame or chemicals involved, just a hot coil and a fan. They’re especially good if you’re lighting fires indoors frequently and don’t want to keep buying consumables. The only catch is you’ll need an outlet near your fireplace or stove.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all fire starter. If you like going old-school, newspaper and kindling is cheap and effective—just a bit finicky. If convenience matters more, try wax-based starters or fatwood. For the gadget lovers, an electric starter offers a flame-free approach that works every time. Whatever you pick, using the right starter can transform fire-building from a chore into a breeze.