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10 Best Fireplace Starters 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

50lb Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks | 100% Natural Fire Starters for Fire Pit, Wood Stoves, Fireplaces & Bonfire | Easy Start w/Just 2 Sticks Burns in All Weather Conditions by Billy Buckskin (50lb Box)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,278
Ease of Use
Burn Time
Type of Starter

Most important from
8075 reviews

Ease of Use
These fire starter sticks ignite immediately and consistently, making fire-starting effortless even for those without expert skills.
Burn Time
The quality stands out compared to other brands, providing a reliable burn that doesn't flare up too quickly or waste material.
Type of Starter
Only a few sticks are needed to get a strong fire going, demonstrating their efficiency and effectiveness.

Billy Buckskin's 50lb Fatwood Fire Starter Sticks are 100% natural sticks made from high-resin pine wood, designed to make starting fires easy and reliable. These sticks light quickly and burn strongly, thanks to the natural resin, which helps even when wood is damp or weather is tough. You only need 2-3 sticks to get a fire going, which suits fireplaces, wood stoves, fire pits, and bonfires well. The sticks burn with a clean flame and produce minimal soot, adding a pleasant natural wood scent rather than harsh chemical smells.

Because they’re chemical-free and sustainably sourced from fallen pine stumps, they offer an eco-friendly choice that doesn’t harm live trees. Handling and lighting them is straightforward and safe, with no messy residues or artificial additives. The package size is generous, providing a long-lasting supply that’s good for frequent use. On the downside, the sticks’ thickness varies, which might affect burn time consistency a bit, and since these are natural wood, they will eventually run out and need replacing.

For those seeking a simple, natural, and effective fire starter that works in all weather without chemicals or strong odors, these fatwood sticks represent a reliable and environmentally friendly option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,278
Ease of Use
Burn Time
Type of Starter

Most important from
8075 reviews

Ease of Use
These fire starter sticks ignite immediately and consistently, making fire-starting effortless even for those without expert skills.
Burn Time
The quality stands out compared to other brands, providing a reliable burn that doesn't flare up too quickly or waste material.
Type of Starter
Only a few sticks are needed to get a strong fire going, demonstrating their efficiency and effectiveness.
#2

Duraflame Fire Starter for Indoor and Outdoor Use - Quick Ignition Logs for BBQ, Fireplace, Fire Pit and Campfires (72 Pack)

Rating
9.4
Ease of Use
Type of Starter
Burn Time

Most important from
1581 reviews

Ease of Use
Lights up quickly and reliably, making fire starting effortless every time.
Type of Starter
The small size is perfect for controlled burns without wasting larger starters.
Burn Time
Works perfectly for burn barrels and various fire needs with consistent performance.

The Duraflame Fire Starter is a user-friendly option for anyone looking to ignite fires quickly and with minimal hassle. These sticks light up almost instantly with a match, making it easy to start a fire without dealing with messy kindling. Each fire starter is individually wrapped and water-resistant, so they stay ready to use even in damp conditions. Burn time is solid, providing a long-lasting flame that helps get your fire going without needing constant attention or extra fuel.

The product is made from a blend of wax and renewable biomass, which reduces harmful emissions compared to some traditional starters, making it a more eco-friendly choice. It doesn’t have any added scents, so there’s no overpowering odor when lighting your fire indoors or outdoors. This makes it suitable for fireplaces, fire pits, BBQ grills, and campfires. While it’s very reliable and safe to use, people who prefer natural wood kindling might miss the traditional feel. Also, if you’re sensitive to chemical smells, it’s good to know these starters are unflavored and designed to burn cleanly.

This pack of 72 starters provides good value and convenience for anyone wanting a quick, dependable fire starter that works well in various settings.

Rating
9.4
Ease of Use
Type of Starter
Burn Time

Most important from
1581 reviews

Ease of Use
Lights up quickly and reliably, making fire starting effortless every time.
Type of Starter
The small size is perfect for controlled burns without wasting larger starters.
Burn Time
Works perfectly for burn barrels and various fire needs with consistent performance.
#3

Plow & Hearth 40 LB Fatwood Fire Starter, Organic Kindling Sticks, Non Toxic All Natural Firestarters for Wood Stoves Fireplaces Campfires Fire Pits, Easy Ignition Fat Wood

Rating
8.2
Type of Starter
Burn Time
Ease of Use

Most important from
6901 reviews

Type of Starter
Lights fires quickly and easily, igniting seasoned wood with minimal effort.
Burn Time
Burns hot and produces a good amount of heat, perfect for fireplaces and wood stoves.
Ease of Use
Pre-split sticks are convenient to handle and ignite within seconds.
Safety
100% natural and chemical-free, offering a safe and eco-friendly fire-starting option.
Environmental Impact
100% natural and chemical-free, offering a safe and eco-friendly fire-starting option.
Odor
Made from high-quality, resin-rich wood that smells pleasant when burning.

The Plow & Hearth 40 LB Fatwood Fire Starter is a natural and effective option for anyone needing an easy way to start fires in fireplaces, wood stoves, fire pits, or campfires. These sticks are made from resin-rich wood, which means they light quickly and burn hot, helping you get a fire going fast without the hassle of newspapers or chemical starters. Each stick is pre-split into a convenient 8-inch size, making them simple to handle and use.

One of the biggest pluses is that they are 100% all-natural, sourced sustainably from fallen pine trees, so they're safe for both indoor and outdoor use with no toxic fumes or strong odors. This makes them a good choice for eco-conscious users and households concerned about indoor air quality. The burn time is solid for kindling sticks, providing enough heat to ignite larger logs. However, because these are natural wood sticks, they won’t burn as long as charcoal or gel starters, so you may need a few sticks for bigger fires.

They are also completely chemical-free, which is great for safety but means they can occasionally be a bit harder to light compared to chemical fire starters in damp conditions. These fatwood sticks serve as a reliable, environmentally friendly fire starter that suits those who value natural products and easy ignition with minimal smoke and odor. They are especially helpful for campers, homeowners with wood-burning stoves, or anyone preparing emergency fire-starting supplies.

Rating
8.2
Type of Starter
Burn Time
Ease of Use

Most important from
6901 reviews

Type of Starter
Lights fires quickly and easily, igniting seasoned wood with minimal effort.
Burn Time
Burns hot and produces a good amount of heat, perfect for fireplaces and wood stoves.
Ease of Use
Pre-split sticks are convenient to handle and ignite within seconds.
Safety
100% natural and chemical-free, offering a safe and eco-friendly fire-starting option.
Environmental Impact
100% natural and chemical-free, offering a safe and eco-friendly fire-starting option.
Odor
Made from high-quality, resin-rich wood that smells pleasant when burning.

Buying Guide for the Best Fireplace Starters

Choosing the right fireplace starter can make a significant difference in how easily and efficiently you can start a fire. Whether you are using it for a cozy indoor fireplace or an outdoor fire pit, the right starter will save you time and effort. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a fireplace starter, along with explanations to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Type of StarterFireplace starters come in various types, including fire starter sticks, cubes, gels, and natural options like fatwood. The type of starter is important because it affects how easy it is to use and how quickly it ignites. Fire starter sticks and cubes are convenient and easy to use, making them great for beginners. Gels can be spread over a larger area and are good for starting larger fires. Natural options like fatwood are eco-friendly and have a pleasant aroma. Choose a type based on your preference for convenience, environmental impact, and the size of the fire you need to start.
Burn TimeBurn time refers to how long the starter will burn once ignited. This is important because a longer burn time can help ensure that your firewood catches fire and stays lit. Burn times can range from a few minutes to over 20 minutes. For small indoor fires, a shorter burn time may be sufficient. For larger outdoor fires or damp wood, a longer burn time is more effective. Consider the typical conditions in which you will be starting fires to determine the appropriate burn time for your needs.
Ease of UseEase of use is a measure of how simple it is to ignite the starter and get your fire going. This is important because you want a starter that doesn't require a lot of effort or additional tools. Some starters can be lit with a match or lighter, while others may require more effort. If you are new to starting fires or want a hassle-free experience, look for starters that are known for their ease of use. Reading user reviews can also provide insight into how easy a product is to use.
SafetySafety is a crucial consideration when choosing a fireplace starter. This includes how safe the starter is to handle, store, and use. Some starters are made with chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or touched, while others are made from natural materials that are safer. Additionally, consider how the starter burns—some may produce sparks or excessive smoke. If you have children or pets, or if you are concerned about chemical exposure, opt for natural or low-toxicity starters. Always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions to ensure safe use.
Environmental ImpactThe environmental impact of a fireplace starter refers to how eco-friendly the product is. This is important for those who are conscious of their environmental footprint. Some starters are made from recycled materials or sustainable resources, while others may contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. If sustainability is important to you, look for starters that are labeled as eco-friendly or made from natural materials. These options are not only better for the environment but often produce less smoke and odor.
OdorOdor refers to the smell produced by the fireplace starter when it burns. This is important because a strong or unpleasant odor can affect your enjoyment of the fire. Some starters are odorless, while others may have a mild or strong scent. If you are using the starter indoors, you may prefer an odorless or pleasantly scented option. For outdoor use, odor may be less of a concern. Consider your sensitivity to smells and the location where you will be using the starter when making your choice.

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