Best Logs to Burn in 2024!

A Fireplace Enthusiast's Guide 🙂

As we embrace the coziness of 2024, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire. But not all firewood is created equal. With over 30 years of experience in chimney care and fireplace maintenance, we have curated a list of the top ten best logs to burn this year. Our recommendations are based on actual use and extensive knowledge in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned fire-builder or new to the world of wood-burning, this guide is for you.

Article (actually) written: December 2023

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Best Logs to Burn

1. Pine Mountain Creosote Buster

I highly recommend the Creosote Buster Firelog for safeguarding homes against super-dangerous creosote buildup (we can clean that, by the way). This is remarkably effective when used once every 40 fires or annually in fireplaces or wood stoves. This does a good job at reducing creosote in between cleanings.  We recommend this product so much that we keep these logs on hand when we do our chimney cleanings, in case our clients have run out.  Very highly recommended product.

2. Duraflame 3-Hour Burn Time Indoor/Outdoor

The pack of 6 Duraflame fire logs is perfect for anyone seeking a hassle-free and authentic fire experience. These logs light up quickly, becoming fully engulfed within about 5 minutes. I’ve found them to burn for up to 3 hours and they give out decent heat.  One of their most notable advantages is how cleanly they burn (80% cleaner than traditional wood), significantly reducing fireplace mess (fewer cleanings, anyone?!).  

3. Pine Mountain Java-Log Firelog (Recycled Coffee Grounds!)

I’ve really enjoyed using the Java Log, made from recycled coffee grounds. It’s not just eco-friendly, but it also burns in such an impressive way — cleaner, hotter, and brighter than traditional wood. This means less carbon monoxide and creosote (Brass & Burn approved!). It keeps going strong for about 3-4 hours.  They are variable with how strongly they smell of coffee (some have been potent, other have been lackluster), but I appreciate the Earth-conscious approach none-the-less.

4. Pine Mountain Roasting Logs

I’ve had such a fun time using these roasting logs, especially during our family campfires. They light up super fast, in under 5 minutes, which is great when we’re all starving. They are smaller than one might expect, but each set of logs gives a solid hour or two of burn time.  They are made with food-grade ingredients, making them a safe choice for cooking. It’s easier than lugging around traditional firewood, and it’s safe for the hot dogs and smores!

5. Zorestar Birch Firewood - Easy Ignition Fire Logs

This premium eco-friendly birchwood firewood is perfect for a fire pit (or pizza oven!). They are free from additives and chemicals, so the burning is super clean. You get 8-10 perfectly sized, kiln-dried birch logs and a handy pack of tumbleweeds fire starter. Each log is about 14 inches long and SUPER easy to light.  A bonus is the aroma of the burning birchwood – very nice.

6. Plow & Hearth Fatwood Fire Starter Organic Kindling

I’ve found this 100% natural fatwood for lighting fires to be quite effective.  Easy to use.  Reasonable price.  The high resin content in the wood allows it to ignite quickly and burn hot. They are chemical-free and environmentally responsible since they’re sourced without harming any live trees. The sticks come pre-split and are about 8 inches long – really fantastic kindling.  I always have a box on hand nexto to my fireplace, and they work way better (and are way less toxic) than the go-to newspaper for getting the fire started.

7. Firestart: Fire Starter for Indoor and Outdoor Use

OK, it’s not a “log” log, but it’s useful so I’m including it.  These Duraflame Fire Starters work great both indoors and outdoors. They eliminate the need for traditional kindling or fuel, making starting fires much easier. They even work with damp wood.  They’re super clean to use (no chemical smell), and individually wrapped for tidy storage. I’ve used them for BBQs, campfires, and indoor burns.  I definitely recommend bringing these along on your next camping trip!

BONUS: Magical Flames Fire Color Changing Packets

Including these because they are super cool and the kids love them 🙂 These are individually wrapped fire color changing packets that literally change the color of the fire.  You don’t open them or anything – you just toss 1-3 packets on a fire, and you’ll have rainbow flames a few seconds later.  These are GREAT for campfires!  Nothing gets the kids more excited than gignatic purple flames.   Safety alert from Brass & Burn: these packets aren’t for propane or artificial gas log pits and you shouldn’t open them before use. 

About the Author

Meet the esteemed ‘Lord Brassburn,’ a moniker as grand as the chimneys he champions, yet beneath this Victorian-style cloak of mystery lies the true chimney connoisseur, Tony Latino. With a brush in hand and soot in his soul, Tony has reigned over the chimney cleaning empire for 30 years, mastering the art of chimney wizardry—from sweeping grand fireplaces to crafting sturdy stucco with the finesse of a seasoned artisan. His expertise in fire safety shines brighter than any flame, offering wisdom that complements, but humbly bows to, the expertise of our brave firefighters. Passionate and unparalleled in his craft, Tony has lovingly passed the torch (or should we say brush?) to his son, ensuring the family legacy burns as brightly as a well-tended hearth. Fear not, dear readers, for each word in our blog is sifted through the discerning eyes of Tony himself, guaranteeing the spark of authenticity in every post. Rest assured, Lord Brassburn’s Associate, Tony Latino, is no mere chimney sweep, but a true steward of the flame!

Lord Brassburn, Gentleman, Chimney Expert