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10 Best Fireplace Starters 2025 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

Fire Starter Squares, 160 pcs - Fire Starters for Campfires, Grill, Outdoor Fire Pit, Fireplace, BBQ - Fire Starter Kit, Water Resistant & Odorless - Camping Accessories

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,444
Type of Starter
Burn Time
Ease of Use

Most important from
14562 reviews

Type of Starter
Incredibly effective at starting a fire quickly and easily, whether for a fireplace, campfire, or BBQ grill.
Burn Time
Lights up easily and holds the flame long enough to get a fire going without any hassle.
Ease of Use
Best fire starter I've tried; lights easily and starts fires very quickly, even with a small piece.
Environmental Impact
No unpleasant odors or harmful chemicals, making them a pleasure to use.

The Fire Starter Squares by Melt Candle Company offer a convenient and efficient way to start fires for various purposes such as campfires, grills, outdoor fire pits, and indoor fireplaces. A major strength is their ease of use; they ignite quickly without the need for kindling or paper. This makes them incredibly user-friendly, even for those with little experience in starting fires.

The squares are made from natural materials—wax and sawdust—making them safe and odorless, which is a big plus for those sensitive to strong smells or chemicals like lighter fluid. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly, as the materials used are biodegradable. Their ability to burn even when wet is highly commendable, ensuring that your fire-starting plans aren’t ruined by damp conditions.

Each square burns for about 6 minutes, which is typically sufficient to get a good fire going. On the downside, while they are compact and easy to carry, some users might find the burn time a bit short for larger fires that need more sustained ignition. These fire starter squares are reliable, environmentally friendly, and user-friendly, making them an excellent choice for campers, grillers, and those looking for an easy way to start a fire both indoors and outdoors.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,444
Type of Starter
Burn Time
Ease of Use

Most important from
14562 reviews

Type of Starter
Incredibly effective at starting a fire quickly and easily, whether for a fireplace, campfire, or BBQ grill.
Burn Time
Lights up easily and holds the flame long enough to get a fire going without any hassle.
Ease of Use
Best fire starter I've tried; lights easily and starts fires very quickly, even with a small piece.
Environmental Impact
No unpleasant odors or harmful chemicals, making them a pleasure to use.
#2

Fire Starter Squares 192 - Fire Starters for Fireplace,Chimney,BBQ Grill,Camping Fire,Wood Stove - Water Resistant and Safe Odourless - Camping Accessories

Rating
9.4
Type of Starter

Most important from
2175 reviews

Type of Starter
These fire starter squares are small but deliver a powerful performance.

The AWEASROY Fire Starter Squares are designed to make starting a fire simple and efficient. Made from paraffin and sawdust, these squares are safe for cooking and do not emit any harmful odors, which is a positive for both health and the environment. Each pack contains 64 squares, which are lightweight and portable, making them convenient for various uses like camping, indoor fireplaces, and BBQ grills.

The fire starters are quick to ignite, even in challenging conditions such as wind and rain, and they boast a burn time of 6-8 minutes, sufficient for most fire-starting needs. These features make them versatile and valuable for many scenarios, from camping trips to backyard barbecues and cozy home fires.

Some users have reported difficulty in separating the squares. Although the manufacturer has optimized the design to address this issue by dividing the squares into smaller pieces, there might still be some older stock that is harder to separate. In summary, these fire starter squares offer a balance of safety, ease of use, and environmental friendliness, with a minor inconvenience that has been largely addressed by the manufacturer.

Rating
9.4
Type of Starter

Most important from
2175 reviews

Type of Starter
These fire starter squares are small but deliver a powerful performance.
#3

Houswise Tabletop Fire Pit Smores Maker Kit - Concrete Outdoor & Indoor Fire Pit Tabletop, Table Top Firepit, Small Portable Mini Indoor Fireplace

Rating
9.2
Type of Starter
Burn Time
Ease of Use

Most important from
911 reviews

Type of Starter
Simple and convenient to use with rubbing alcohol as fuel.
Burn Time
Makes having a fire easy and hassle-free, providing a warm flame for about 30 minutes.
Ease of Use
No cleanup required, which adds to the convenience.
Safety
Heavy enough to be stable but still portable for outdoor use.
Environmental Impact
Great alternative for those with allergies to burning wood.

The Houswise Tabletop Fire Pit Smores Maker Kit is a versatile mini fireplace designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Its compact size and light weight make it highly portable, allowing you to easily set it up wherever you need a cozy, inviting atmosphere. One of its notable strengths is its dual functionality as a smores maker, providing an enjoyable activity for gatherings. The concrete construction adds a modern touch to its appearance and enhances durability.

It's straightforward to use, making it accessible for users who may not be tech-savvy. Safety features are emphasized, ensuring a worry-free experience when handling the fire pit. Additionally, it burns ethanol fuel, which is known for being smokeless and odorless, contributing to a pleasant environment without the usual hassle of traditional fire pits. This product also stands out as an excellent gift option for various occasions, especially housewarming parties.

However, it's worth noting that burn time may be limited due to its small size and fuel capacity. While it offers a clean burn, users should consider the environmental impact of ethanol fuel. The concrete material, while aesthetically pleasing, could be susceptible to wear over time. In summary, the Houswise Tabletop Fire Pit Smores Maker Kit is a great choice for those seeking a portable, easy-to-use, and safe fireplace starter with the added benefit of smores-making fun.

Rating
9.2
Type of Starter
Burn Time
Ease of Use

Most important from
911 reviews

Type of Starter
Simple and convenient to use with rubbing alcohol as fuel.
Burn Time
Makes having a fire easy and hassle-free, providing a warm flame for about 30 minutes.
Ease of Use
No cleanup required, which adds to the convenience.
Safety
Heavy enough to be stable but still portable for outdoor use.
Environmental Impact
Great alternative for those with allergies to burning wood.

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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