Imagine curling up next to a crackling fire on a chilly evening. That cozy warmth is what owning a wood stove offers, but getting that perfect burn depends on one crucial element: the right firewood. Choosing firewood isn’t as simple as grabbing any piece of wood you find. Do you know the difference between hardwoods and softwoods? Are you tired of dealing with smoky fires or wood that just won’t catch? Many people struggle with these choices, leading to frustrating, inefficient heating.
Picking the wrong wood means wasted energy and a less comfortable home. You might burn through your supply too fast or struggle with excessive creosote buildup. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly what makes firewood good for your wood stove. You will learn about moisture content, wood types, and how to store your fuel for the best results. By the end of this post, you will be an expert at selecting the best wood to keep your stove burning hot and clean.
Top Firewood For Wood Stove Recommendations
No. 1
Old Potters Kiln Dried Firewood - Cherry, 1100 Cu. in, 16-18 Logs ~ 8" x 2.5" Logs. Solo Stove and Cooking Wood for Grilling, Smoking, and Firepits, Cherry.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether you're having a party, enjoying a quiet night in, or cooking up a storm for your family and friends, our cooking wood is sure to make your event memorable
- Perfect Size: At 8 inches in length and 2-3 inches thick, our cooking wood is the perfect size for any grill, smoker, or fire pit. It lights easily and burns hot, producing that delicious smoky flavor that everyone loves
- Choose Your Favorite Flavor: Our cooking wood is available in three delicious flavors: Oak, Cherry, and Hickory. Each variety has its own unique taste and aroma, so you can choose the one that best suits your tastes
- USDA Certified: Our cooking wood is USDA Certified, which means it has been inspected and meets strict quality standards for safety and sanitation. You can trust that our firewood is of the highest quality
- Kiln Dried: Our cooking wood is kiln dried to ensure that it is dry and ready to use. This process removes excess moisture and prevents the wood from cracking or splitting during burning
No. 2
15" Oak Firewood Logs, with Fire Starters Set, Kiln-Dried Wood for Fire Pit, Seasoned Logs for Fireplace, Campfire, Firewood Bundle, Pizza Oven, Split Wood for Solo Stove, 1200 cub. in., 15-20lb
- Premium Quality Firewood: Our kiln-dried firewood logs are perfect for any use, whether you need oak firewood, birch firewood, or cherry firewood. Delivered straight to your door, these logs are ideal for fireplaces, fire pits, and wood stoves.
- Versatile Wood for All Needs: Whether you're looking for firewood for fireplace, firewood for your indoor fireplace, or cooking wood for your pizza oven, our firewood bundles include the best oak, birch, and cherry firewood for fireplace.
- Perfect for Outdoor Use: Our firewood logs for fire pits and campfires are small enough to handle but large enough to keep your fire burning strong. Enjoy wood for fire pits, mini firewood, and smoking wood logs for a perfect outdoor experience.
- High-Quality Kiln-Dried Wood: Our kiln-dried hardwood and split wood are designed to provide a cleaner, hotter burn with less smoke. Choose from post oak wood logs, apple wood logs, and other options for your wood fireplace or wood-burning fire pit.
- Ideal for Cooking and Smoking: Elevate your cooking with our wood for smoking meat, wood for pizza ovens, and solo stove firewood. Our oak wood, apple wood logs for smoking, and other firewood logs are perfect for adding a unique flavor to your food.
No. 3
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)
- 10-POUND BOX OF PREMIUM FATWOOD – Stock up on a generous 10-pound box of high-quality Billy Buckskin fatwood fire starter sticks, the ultimate fire-starting solution for fireplaces, fire pits, wood stoves, campfires, and outdoor grills. Each stick measures approximately 8 inches in length and varies in thickness from 0.3 to 1.25 inches, ensuring quick and reliable ignition. With just 2-3 sticks, you can effortlessly start a strong blaze.
- PREMIUM HIGH-RESIN FATWOOD FOR QUICK & EASY FIRE STARTING – Sourced from rich, high-resin pine stumps, our premium fatwood fire starter ignites instantly, eliminating the hassle of kindling while minimizing soot buildup. Each stick produces a strong, clean-burning flame with a naturally aromatic scent, perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere indoors or enhancing outdoor fire pits and campfires. Ideal for fireplaces, wood stoves, fire pits, camping, and survival kits.
- 100% NATURAL & CHEMICAL-FREE – No live trees are harmed as these are harvested from naturally fallen pine stumps in the lush Mexican jungles. Billy Buckskin’s premium fatwood sticks provide a clean, eco-friendly fire-starting solution with no artificial chemicals or additives. Rich in natural resin, these fire starters ignite effortlessly, making them perfect for fireplaces, wood stoves, fire pits, campfires, and survival kits.
- EASY-TO-USE & RELIABLE – Ignite your fire effortlessly with Billy Buckskin fatwood starter sticks—just place 2-3 sticks among your kindling, light one, and let the rich resin do the work for a quick, sustained flame. For larger pieces, simply hold a match in place to activate the natural resin, ensuring a strong and efficient burn. Perfect for fireplaces, wood stoves, fire pits, campfires, and outdoor cooking.
- RELIABLE IN ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS – Ignite a fire effortlessly in any condition with Billy Buckskin fatwood, the ultimate fire-starting solution for all seasons. With an exceptionally high resin content, these sticks light easily—even when wet—making them perfect for rainy hikes, snowy campfires, summer grilling, and emergency preparedness. Whether you're starting a fire at home or in the great outdoors.
No. 4
Old Potter Kiln Dried Firewood, ~1.5 Cu Ft ~ 38-45 lbs, for Solo Stove, Firepits and Fireplaces or Cooking, 16 Inch Logs, Oak
- Kiln Dried: Our cooking wood is kiln dried to ensure that it is dry and ready to use. This process removes excess moisture and prevents the wood from cracking or splitting during burning
- USDA Certified: Our cooking wood is USDA Certified, which means it has been inspected and meets strict quality standards for safety and sanitation. You can trust that our firewood is of the highest quality
No. 5
Firewood Central Kiln-Dried PA Mixed Blend – 16” Splits (Approx. 38 lb) – Smoking Wood for Cooking, Wood-Fired Ovens & Campfires – Easy Light, Low Smoke, USA-Sourced
- Pennsylvania Mixed Blend – Expertly selected mix of oak, maple, hickory, cherry, walnut, and ash—each chosen for its unique burning qualities. Delivers balanced heat, an efficient burn, and a pleasant aroma.
- Kiln-Dried for Enhanced Performance – PDA-certified premium firewood dried to 15% moisture or less for quick ignition, efficient heat, and a clean, low-smoke burn.
- Ideal Size & Weight – Each 38 lb bundle includes 14–18 evenly sized 16-inch firewood splits, pre-cut, portable, easy to store, and ready to use right out of the box.
- High Heat, Pleasant Aroma & Long Burn – Delivers strong BTU output with a naturally fragrant aroma, steady flame, and extended burn time—perfect for wood cooking and relaxing outdoor fires.
- Sustainably Harvested & Processed in the USA – Sourced from certified American forests and processed in Myerstown, PA. 100% natural, eco-friendly hardwood, crafted for premium cooking, smoking and firewood use.
No. 6
FiveOaks Firewood Kiln Dried Oak Pizza Oven Wood, Mini 5 Inch Cooking Wood for Ooni, Gozney, Bertello Pizza Ovens, Solo Stove & More - Approx 14lbs Product of USA (1,000 Cubic Inches)
- Perfect: Tiny splits measure approximately 5 inches long and .5-2 inches wide. Ideal for cooking in ooni pizza oven, gozney roccbox, solo stove pizza oven, and heating with mini solo stove.
- Premium Kiln Dried Hardwood: quick ignite and burns hot! Temp varies from 750-1000° F. Lower moisture creates ideal cooking wood and smoker wood. Kiln dried firewood is free from mold and pests.
- Maximum Quantity: Each box is neatly hand stack to the brim. When you buy a box from us it means you are getting a genuine box full.
- Taste the Outdoors: on your dinner plate with our premium cooking wood. Cook your favorite pizza, thin crust pizza, mini pizza, meats, veggies, and more. Our favorite is panseared burgers and zucchini.
- All Natural and Sustainable: Our firewood is sourced from state forester managed timber in Northwest PA. Our kilns are fueled with virgin recycled waste wood vs the less environmentally friendly fossil fuels.
No. 7
Superior Trading Oak Mini Fire Wood w/Fire Starter Pods, Winter Fireplace Starter, Wood Stove, USDA Cert 4-5” Kiln Dried Firewood, USA Made, 10-11 lbs in Plastic Storage Box
- KINDLE CHERISHED MOMENTS: Our natural oak mini firewood sticks are more than just fuel; they’re memory makers. Perfect for gathering loved ones around a cozy fireplace, a sizzling BBQ, or a crackling campfire under the stars.
- VERSATILE FOR EVERY SEASON: From winter nights by the wood stove to summer evenings around the fire pit, these 4-5-inch sticks adapt to any occasion. Perfect for indoor fireplaces, outdoor pizza ovens, fire starters for grill, and everything in between.
- HASSLE-FREE FIRE STARTING: Includes camping fire starter pods that ignite quickly and burn for 15-20 minutes, ensuring your oak sticks catch fire with ease. Spend more time enjoying the company, less time tending the flame.
- PREMIUM AMERICAN OAK: Locally sourced and USDA certified, our kiln-dried oak burns clean and hot. Enjoy a consistent, long-lasting flame that enhances every gathering with its warm glow and subtle aroma.
- SUPERIOR TRADING CO. DIFFERENCE: We're more than just fire starters; we're a brand dedicated to quality, sustainability, and community. Every Made in USA fire starter kit reflects our values and commitment to exceptional products.
No. 8
WiFER Mini Fire Stick, 4'' Kiln-Dried Pine Great Firewood for Wood Stoves, Tabletop Fire Pit, BBQ Grill, Pizza Oven, Solo Stove Accessories, BBQ Accessories, 2 lb Box
- Premium Mini Firewood: Elevate your outdoor experience with our meticulously designed mini firewood made from natural premium pine. Each box, weighing 2 pounds, ensures convenience for indoor storage and outdoor adventures. Our kiln-dried process maintains a moisture content of less than 6%, guaranteeing bark-free, clean-burning, and longer-lasting fires.
- Smoke Reduction & Authentic Wood Flavor: Bid farewell to bothersome smoke! Our kiln-dried firewood stands out with its minimal sap and resin content, ensuring cleaner burns and generating more heat for your camp stoves, wood-burning stoves, and ovens. Place your trust in the superior quality of our fire sticks for an extraordinary outdoor cooking and heating experience. Revel in extended burn times of 20-30 minutes, allowing you to savor the warmth.
- Versatile & Perfect Accessory: Each professionally processed stick is 4 inches long, making it compatible with Solo Stove Mesa, Tabletop Solo Stove, pizza ovens Bertello, Big Horn, Ooni, Roccbox, Pellethead ovens, Ooni pizza ovens, and pizza ovens. Our Pine sticks are also useful for indoor fireplaces, open pits, BBQ grills, and more. A great addition to camping accessories!
- Unmatched Quality: Experience the epitome of quality with our mini firewood. Designed for Solo Stove Mesa XL and other outdoor products, it promises extended burn times and sustained ambiance. No compromises on durability – it's the ideal choice for creating lasting memories. Embrace the warmth and charm of a perfect fire every time.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Firewood for Your Wood Stove
Buying firewood for your wood stove might seem simple, but choosing the right wood makes a huge difference. Good firewood keeps your home warm efficiently and keeps your stove safe. This guide helps you pick the best logs for your needs.
Key Features to Look For in Quality Firewood
When you buy wood, look for these important signs. These features tell you if the wood will burn well.
Moisture Content: The Most Important Factor
- Seasoned Wood: This is wood that has dried out properly. It should have less than 20% moisture. Dry wood burns hotter and cleaner. Wet wood smokes a lot and leaves creosote inside your chimney.
- How to Check: Good firewood often looks gray or cracked at the ends. It sounds hollow when you knock two pieces together.
Density and Heat Output
- Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods (like Oak or Maple) are dense. They burn longer and give off more heat. Softwoods (like Pine or Fir) burn faster and are good for starting fires quickly.
- Use Case: Use hardwoods for long, steady heat overnight. Use softwoods for quick, hot fires when you first light the stove.
Size and Preparation
- Log Size: Logs should fit easily into your stove’s firebox. Most stoves need logs split to 4 to 6 inches in diameter.
- Splitting: Wood should be split, not round. Split wood dries faster and catches fire more easily.
Important Materials: Which Trees Make the Best Fuel?
The type of tree matters a lot for how your fire behaves.
Top Choices (Hardwoods)
- Oak: A fantastic choice. It burns slowly and produces a lot of heat. It needs a long time to season (dry out).
- Maple and Ash: These are also excellent. They provide steady heat and are easier to split than Oak.
Good for Starting Fires (Softwoods)
- Pine and Fir: These woods light up fast. They create a quick, hot flame, but they burn down quickly. They also tend to spark more.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Firewood Quality
How the wood is treated and stored directly affects your burning experience.
What Makes Wood Better? (Improvers)
- Proper Seasoning Time: Wood needs at least 6 to 12 months to dry, depending on the species. Time equals quality heat.
- Stacking Correctly: Always stack wood off the ground. Cover the top, but leave the sides open so air can circulate around the logs. Airflow is key to drying.
What Makes Wood Worse? (Reducers)
- Green Wood: Wood cut recently (green wood) is terrible fuel. It wastes energy boiling off water instead of heating your house.
- Rot or Mold: Never buy wood that is soft, crumbly, or covered in fungus. Rotting wood burns poorly and can introduce pests into your woodpile.
- Treated Wood: Never burn painted, stained, or pressure-treated wood. These release toxic chemicals when burned, which is dangerous for your health and your stove.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your wood stove every day when you buy wood.
- Primary Heat Source: If the stove heats your whole house, buy mostly dense hardwoods like Oak or Hickory. You want long, slow burns.
- Occasional Use/Ambiance: If you only use the stove for cozy evenings, a mix of hardwoods and softer woods works well.
- Starting Fires: Keep a small supply of very dry softwoods or commercially available kindling nearby. This makes getting the fire going much easier.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Firewood
Q: How do I know if my firewood is truly dry enough?
A: Dry wood weighs less than wet wood. It should have visible cracks (checks) on the ends. If you knock two pieces together, it should make a sharp “clink” sound, not a dull “thud.”
Q: Should I buy wood by the cord, face cord, or truckload?
A: A full cord is a large amount, stacked neatly to measure 4 feet high, 4 feet deep, and 8 feet long. Face cords are smaller. Buy based on how much wood you use yearly and how much storage space you have.
Q: Can I burn wood that is still slightly damp?
A: You can, but it is not recommended. Damp wood creates excessive smoke and builds up dangerous creosote in your chimney very quickly. Always aim for under 20% moisture.
Q: What is creosote and why is it bad?
A: Creosote is a sticky, black residue that forms when wood smokes instead of burning cleanly. It builds up inside your chimney liner. It is highly flammable and causes chimney fires.
Q: How should I store my firewood?
A: Stack it off the ground, ideally on pallets or concrete blocks. Cover the top to keep rain and snow off, but leave the sides open so air flows through and dries it further.
Q: Is it okay to store wood right next to the house?
A: No. Store wood at least a few feet away from your home. This prevents pests like termites or ants from moving from the woodpile into your house structure.
Q: What is the best wood for overnight burns?
A: Dense hardwoods like Oak, Hickory, or dense Maple are best. They have high density, so they smolder slowly, giving you heat for many hours.
Q: How much wood do I need for one winter?
A: This depends on your climate and stove efficiency. Most average homes using a wood stove as a primary heat source use between 3 to 6 cords per year.
Q: Can I burn scrap lumber or plywood?
A: Absolutely not. Treated wood, plywood, particleboard, and painted wood release dangerous, toxic fumes when burned. Only burn natural, untreated firewood.
Q: Should I buy wood that is already split or split it myself?
A: Buying pre-split wood saves you a lot of hard work. However, if you are on a tight budget, buying rounds (unsplit logs) is cheaper, but you must be able to split it quickly to season it properly.