5 Best Wood for Log Burning Stoves (UK 2026 Review)

What to Look for When Buying Wood for a Log Burning Stove

The first thing to check is moisture content. Wood that still contains too much water is harder to get going and wastes part of the fire’s energy evaporating that moisture. For packaged firewood, the Ready to Burn mark gives you a recognised standard to look for rather than relying on vague descriptions such as “seasoned” or “dry”.

When comparing logs, focus on:

• Moisture: choose properly dried wood and check any stated moisture figure.
• Log size: make sure the pieces will fit comfortably inside your stove’s firebox.
• Pack quantity: compare litres, weight and number of bags carefully because sellers use different measurements.
• Certification: Ready to Burn or Woodsure information can make packaged fuel easier to assess.
• Storage: think about where the logs will go before ordering a large pack.

Hardwood or Softwood?

For everyday stove use, kiln-dried hardwood is a good place to start. Dense hardwoods generally give a steadier, longer-lasting burn, while dry softwood tends to catch more quickly and can be useful when getting a fire established. Birch is particularly convenient for home stoves because it lights readily, produces a lively flame and is widely available as kiln-dried fuel.

The important point is that dry wood matters more than the hardwood label alone. Properly dried softwood is preferable to wet hardwood.

Check the Log Size Before Ordering

A large bag is not much use if the logs are awkwardly sized for your stove. Check the dimensions of the firebox and, where the seller provides it, the approximate log length. Around 25cm is common among packaged logs, but smaller stoves may be easier to load with shorter pieces.

Compare Pack Sizes Carefully

Firewood listings are not always easy to compare because one seller may quote litres while another uses kilograms or the number of bags. A 20kg sack and a 40L bag therefore cannot be compared directly from the headline figures alone.

Also consider how you will move and store the delivery. Several smaller bags can be more convenient than one large sack, particularly if your log store is some distance from the stove.

Store Kiln-Dried Logs Properly

Kiln drying does not mean the logs will stay dry indefinitely. Once delivered, keep them protected from rain and away from persistent ground moisture. A covered, ventilated log store is preferable to wrapping the wood tightly in plastic, as some airflow helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped around it.

What is the best wood for a log burning stove?

There is no single species that is best for every stove. For most households, dry, correctly sized hardwood from a reliable supplier is a sensible choice. Kiln-dried birch is particularly convenient because it lights readily and produces a good flame, while denser hardwoods can be useful when you want a slower, steadier burn.

What moisture level should firewood have?

For efficient stove burning, choose firewood with a moisture content of 20% or less. Properly dried logs light more easily, produce less smoke and deliver more useful heat than wet wood.

Can you burn freshly cut wood in a log burner?

Freshly cut, or green, wood should be dried before it goes into a log burner. Its high moisture content makes it poor stove fuel and can lead to a smoky, inefficient fire. If you prepare your own logs, allow them to season properly and check them with a moisture meter rather than judging dryness from appearance alone.