How to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit: Easy, Safe Steps for Beginners

How to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit: Easy, Safe Steps for Beginners

Want to know how to start a fire in a fire pit safely and easily? Whether you're prepping for a backyard hangout, cooking outdoors, or enjoying a quiet night, this step-by-step guide will help you light a fire in minutes — no stress, no smoke in your eyes.

Bonus: Looking for a wood-burning fire pit? Shop Our Fire Pits built for real firewood and backyard experiences that last.

What You Need to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit

Before lighting your fire pit, gather these essentials:

  • Dry, seasoned firewood: Hardwoods like oak, hickory, or maple burn hotter and cleaner.

  • Kindling: Small twigs or thin sticks to ignite the firewood.

  • Natural fire starters: Crumpled newspaper, fatwood, or eco-friendly firelighters.

  • Long lighter or matches: For safe ignition.

  • Optional tools: Fire poker, heat-resistant gloves, and a spark screen for safety.

💡 Pro Tip: Always use seasoned hardwood to reduce smoke and ensure a steady burn. Avoid green wood or softwoods like pine.

Step-by-Step: How to Start a Fire in Your Fire Pit (Safely)

Step 1: Clean Out the Fire Pit

Remove ash, old wood, or debris to ensure proper airflow and reduce fire hazards.

Step 2: Add Fire Starters

Place natural fire starters (e.g., newspaper or fatwood) in the center of the pit as the base for your flame.

Step 3: Build a Kindling Structure

Choose one of these methods:

  • Teepee Method: Arrange kindling in a cone shape around the fire starters.

  • Log Cabin Method: Stack kindling in a square with gaps for airflow.

Step 4: Stack Firewood Over Kindling

Place 2–3 logs of seasoned hardwood over the kindling, leaving space for air circulation to fuel the fire.

Step 5: Light the Fire

Use a long lighter or matches to ignite the fire starters. The kindling will catch, spreading heat to the logs.

Step 6: Add Logs as Needed

Once the fire is stable, add more logs gradually. Avoid overcrowding to prevent smothering the flame.

Fire Pit Safety Tips

  • Position your fire pit 10–20 feet away from structures, trees, or flammable materials.

  • Never use lighter fluid or gasoline to start a fire.

  • Keep a water bucket, hose, or fire extinguisher nearby.

  • Use a spark screen to contain embers and enhance safety.

Learn more: Check out the NFPA Fire Safety Guidelines for expert advice.

Why Hardwood is the Best Firewood for Your Fire Pit

Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple provide:

  • Longer burns: More heat for extended enjoyment.

  • Less smoke: Cleaner and more pleasant fires.

  • Better efficiency: Less frequent refueling.

 Want more info? Read our full guide: Best Firewood for Fire Pits

Shop Wood-Burning Fire Pits

Starting a fire is only half the experience — your fire pit matters too. Ours are built to handle real hardwood and turn your backyard into a year-round gathering spot.

Shop Now

Back to blog