A Beginner’s Guide to Wood Stove Burning — Mr Logs Helps You Get Started

by Nicky Heather June 11, 2025

Welcome to the wonderful world of stove burning! If you’ve just bought your first log burner or stove, you’re in for many warm, cosy evenings — and some of the best, most efficient heating you can get.

At Mr Logs, we know starting out can feel a bit overwhelming. So we’ve put together this simple guide to help you burn safely, efficiently, and confidently.

1️⃣ Choose the Right Stove

You’ve likely already selected your stove, but it’s important to make sure it’s:

The right size for your room
Installed by a qualified professional
DEFRA-approved (if you live in a smoke control area in the UK)

A correctly fitted stove will give you maximum heat and efficiency.

2️⃣ Know Your Fuel: The Right Logs Matter

Not all logs are equal. Burning the wrong wood can lead to:

Poor heat output
Lots of smoke
Soot build-up
Potential damage to your stove or chimney

✅ Always use seasoned or kiln dried logs with a moisture content below 20%.

At Mr Logs, we supply both kiln dried and properly seasoned logs that are “Ready to Burn” certified — safe, clean, and perfect for your stove.

3️⃣ How to Light Your Stove

Starting your first fire is easier than you think:

You’ll need:

Dry kindling (small sticks)
A firelighter or crumpled newspaper
A few small logs
Your main logs (once it’s going)

Lighting steps:

Open the stove’s air vents fully.
Place your firelighter or newspaper at the base.
Build a small stack of kindling over it (like a teepee).
Light the firelighter.
Once the kindling is burning well, add a couple of small logs.
Once the fire is established, add your larger logs and adjust the air vents.

4️⃣ Master the Air Controls

Your stove has air vents that control how much oxygen reaches the fire.

More air: Hotter, faster burn (good for lighting and starting the fire).
Less air: Slower, longer burn (good for maintaining heat).

Learning to balance the air intake will give you better control over the burn, heat output, and efficiency.

5️⃣ Burn Safely

NEVER burn wet wood, treated wood, or rubbish.
Keep flammable items well away from the stove.
Always use a stove thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Have your chimney swept at least once a year to prevent creosote buildup.

6️⃣ Look After Your Logs

Store your logs:

In a dry, well-ventilated area
Off the ground
Covered on top but open on the sides for airflow

If you’re buying from Mr Logs, your firewood is already dry and ready to burn — but proper storage keeps it that way.

7️⃣ Maintenance is Key

Regular maintenance will keep your stove in top condition:

Clean the glass regularly
Empty the ash pan
Check the door seals
Book a professional chimney sweep annually

8️⃣ Enjoy the Heat!

With practice, you’ll learn the rhythm of your stove. Soon you’ll be able to:

Light a fire quickly
Maintain a steady heat
Use your logs efficiently
Keep your home warm and cosy through the coldest nights

Mr Logs Tip:

🔥 Always keep a small stock of kiln dried kindling and firelighters handy — they make life much easier!

Need Ready-to-Burn Logs Delivered?

At Mr Logs, we supply high-quality kiln dried and seasoned firewood, delivered straight to your door.

✅ Perfect moisture content

✅ Clean, efficient burning

✅ Friendly local service

👉 Order your logs today and start your stove burning journey the right way!