A guide for buying & burning Firelighters


Firelighters are an important tool to get your fire lit quickly and effectively. 

Can I just use paper to light my fire?


While it is possible to light a fire using paper, it isn’t as effective as a firelighter. Simply, paper burns quickly and doesn’t have as strong a flame as a firelighter. It can also cause deposits of soot and creosote to build up in the chimney/pipework.


When using paper on a wood burner or multi-fuel stove avoid any paper that has been treated with a specialist finish. E.G. Scented paper, shiny leaflets, magazines etc. Burning paper with specialist finishes can cause dangerous residue to build-ups, and the release of toxic chemicals.

It is best to only burn uncoated, black and white papers.



WARNING: Do not burn paper excessively on your stove as paper burns quickly, with big flames and ignite any build up in the chimney, causing a chimney fire. 

What is the best type of firelighter to use?


We prefer firelighters made of natural products, this is because they are friendlier to the environment and do not have a chemical scent. We also tend to find them more effective.

 

  • Natural wood shaving and wax-based firelighters

There are many different brands of this firelighter type available. You do only need one to light a fire. It's only on a rare occurrence that we have ever needed to use more than one.

  • Natural firelighter sticks.

These resemble kindling and again are often dipped in wax. We have tried different brands and while they do get the fire lit, we often had to use more than the advertised ‘one’ firelighter to kindling and wood to catch.

  • Natural Firelighter Cubes

They burn well and are an effective Firestarter. However, be aware of size as some brands are quite small and you may need to use more than one.

 

All the firelighter types listed can be used to light any fire including firepits, chimeneas and they are also great to use on BBQ’s as they don’t contain chemicals so there is no risk of them contaminating food.

 

Our preference in the showroom is the natural wood shaving & wax firelighters, simply these live up to their advertised promise and do light the fire with just one. 

How do I store firelighters?


Due to firelighters coming in relatively small packaging, they are usually stored inside. Keep them dry and away from open flames. 

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