TOP 10 Best Fire Pits Comparison
To make the selection process easy for you, here is a comparison table of our top 10 fire pits, to give you a quick overview of the specifications and features of each.
What's The Best Nut Picker Of 2020? Reviews + Guide
This being said, take a close look at the reviews below. These are, in our opinion, the best models of nut pickers that are available on the market nowadays. We’ve listed pros and cons for each of them, in addition to our opinions and other interesting facts about their manufacture and manner of utilization.
1 place :
Solo Stove Bonfire Stainless Steel Fire Pit Review
1 place :
The best fire pit from Solo Stove, the Bonfire made from stainless steel is the ideal choice for anyone looking for an efficient, easy to use, and aesthetically pleasing minimalist fire pit. Combining functioning with beauty, and engineered to provide a unique and unforgettable backyard camping experience, this fire pit comes pack with a variety of features.
Built with state-of-the-art machinery, this outdoor wood burning fire pit is constructed with premium grade 304 and 430 stainless steel – this means it is highly durable and built to last. Its minimalist, stainless steel design is also visually appealing and makes it an attractive modern outdoor fire pit for any backyard.
The unique patented design of the Solo Stove Bonfire Stainless Steel portable outdoor fire pit is another standout feature. The double wall design allows for increased combustion airflow efficiency – this means the flame burns better and longer, there is very little smoke, and you will need to use fewer wood logs.
In addition to all that, the Solo Stove Bonfire Stainless Steel fire pit is also incredibly easy to use – no complicated features or contraptions, which means there is no assembly or set-up required. In addition, it is also portable, which means you can place it anywhere on your patio or in your backyard, in addition to taking it along to summer parties, beaches, or campsites with ease (a heavy duty carry case is also included with this movable fire pit).
- Durable – made of premium grade stainless steel
- Efficient design – longer burn and less smoke
- Easy to use – no assembly or set-up required
- Portable
2 place :
Catalina Creations Heavy Duty Cast Iron Review
2 place :
The Catalina Creations Heavy Duty Cast Iron Fire Pit is the perfect cheap outdoor fire pit for anyone who craves the comfort of a big crackling bonfire, without the extra effort and resulting mess. Featuring a celestial design of hand-cut stars and moons, this whimsical and sturdy good quality fire pit will add warmth and cheer to your evenings and charm to your outdoor décor.
The Catalina Creations is the perfect patio fire pit and comes with a variety of features. Its cast-iron bowl, with a thicker gauge steel base, is extremely durable and designed to last for years – it feels heavy and sturdy, and yet can still be moved around to your location of choice.
In addition to being sturdy, the bowl is also super deep and oversize, which means it can accommodate larger logs, and allow for bigger fires. The log grate provided with the unit and the moon and stars cut-out designs ensure proper airflow so that fires burn better and for longer.
This wood fire pit comes with a 24-inch diameter removable mesh spark screen, to prevent embers from flying out and protect everyone gathered around. A poker is also included. In addition, the fire pit also comes with protective outdoor storage cover, to keep the unit safe from the elements when not in use. All this makes it the second-best fire pit in our TOP 10!
- Durable cast-iron construction
- Deep bowl for bigger fires
- Includes spark guard, poker, and protective outdoor cover
3 place :
Children’s Favourite: Landmann 28345 Big Sky and Moons Firepit Review
3 place :
Landmann’s best fire pit, the 28345 Big Sky and Moons Firepit, is the best way to bring a bit of cozy warmth and magic to your backyard deck or patio. This wood burning fire pit features a design that is both durable and eye-catching – the stylish stars and moon cut-out designs add beauty to the ambiance and the black finish lends a stylish touch to any backyard.
The Landmann Big Sky and Moons is the ideal backyard fire pit and comes with a variety of great features. Its sturdy steel construction with a black finish means it is extra durable and will last you years to come.
The design features a large 23-1/2-inch fire bowl, which means you can build and enjoy larger fires without worrying about safety. The rim of the fire bowl is surrounded by a full diameter safety ring, which can function as both a footrest and a handle for easy carrying and transporting the fire pit to your desired location.
Despite its sturdiness, the entire unit weighs less than 35 pounds – being lightweight, the fire pit is easy to take along for camping trips, beach excursions, and anywhere else you choose.
In addition to all these features, this heavy-duty fire pit also comes with a full-size enamel cooking grate, which means the fire pit can double as a mini grill. A poker is also included, to tend to the fire, which the spark screen included with the unit will protect everyone gathered around the fire from sparks and embers.
- Sturdy steel construction with attractive black finish
- Large fire bowl with safety ring for easy transport
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes cooking grate, poker, and spark guard
4 place :
Best Bronze Fire Pit: Landmann 25282 Review
4 place :
The Landmann 25282 Barrone Fire Pit is the ideal combination of functionality with beauty; it is a testament to the high quality of the company’s products that we have included two Landmann fire pit reviews. This wood-burning fire box is stylish and contemporary even though it's not a round fire pit, with decorative crosshatch design and an antique bronze finish which will look great on any deck or patio. In addition to the warmth it provides, it also offers a 360 view of the fire, making for cherry and cozy nights outside.
The Landmann Barrone fire pit comes with plenty of great features. It is supported by four sturdy, decorative legs, to provide optimum balance and stability. This patio wood burning fire pit also comes with a built-in log grate, to ensure maximum airflow and a brighter, more long-lasting fire.
A large spark screen is included along with a handle, to ensure you and your guests are adequately protected from any flying sparks or embers. A poker is also provided, to help stoke the fire and keep it burning. Finally, the unit also comes with a cover – this can be used to protect the fire pit when it is not in use, and keep it safe so it stays in top condition and lasts long.
5 place :
Best Oriental: CobraCo SH101 Copper Fire Pit Review
5 place :
The CobraCo’s best fire pit, the SH101 model is a 100% copper fire pit, that will do good to anyone looking to add a touch of warmth and charm to their garden or patio. Being one of the top fire pits, this exquisite, hand-hammered copper fire pit is the perfect addition to any outdoor party, and will have your guests gravitating toward it for warmth, light, and conversation. The CobraCo copper fire pit comes packed with lots of great features. Most prominently, its striking appearance – this fire pit is constructed with 100% uncoated copper, which has a rustic texture and charm all its own. This metal will change color with exposure to fire and the elements, and take on a beautiful patina over time, which will gradually develop a natural and weathered look.
In addition to its charming rustic appearance, the copper fire bowl is also extra deep, to allow for larger, cheerier, and more long-lasting fires. The fire pit is not just a pretty face – its sturdy metal construction makes it extra durable, and the solid wrought iron stand in which to place the copper tub is built to last.
However, along with being sturdy, this copper fire pit is also portable – it can easily be placed wherever you please and taken along for camping, beach parties, etc. In addition, clean-up is a breeze – simply empty the cooled ashes in the tub into a trash can.
The CobraCo copper fire pit also has a heavy-duty wire protective mesh screen cover – this serves as a spark guard to protect you and your loved ones from any sudden flying sparks or embers. It also has a handle for easy lifting, which is coated with high-temperature paint. A vinyl outdoor cover with an elastic stretch band is also included, which can be used to securely cover the fire pit and protect it from rain, snow, leaves, etc. This rustproof fire pit is incredibly easy to use – there is no assembly and minimal set-up required. Simply unbox it, place the tub in the frame, and your large fire pit is ready to be used.
6 place :
Best Portable: AmazonBasics Portable Folding Fire Pit Review
6 place :
The AmazonBasics’ best portable folding fire pit is the answer to all your campfire needs, rolled into a single, portable, convenient little package. This portable fire pit has it all, whether you’re setting it up for a backyard party or taking it for a spin on the beach or at a camping site. This unit is incredibly versatile and comes equipped with a ton of features.
This perfect camping fire pit is made of durable steel and finished with heat-resistant paint, for added longevity and visual appeal. It is super easy to assemble – the four legs attach securely to the fire bowl, and the entire process is fast, user-friendly and requires zero tools.
The unit also comes with a spark guard screen – this dome-shaped, heat-resistant mesh cover fits atop the bowl, keeping onlookers safe from rogue sparks and embers while allowing them to observe the flames. It is topped with a loop handle, to allow for easy removal, and a poker is also included, which can be used to remove the spark guard cover, for example.
Another great feature of this small portable fire pit is its dual grates. The unit comes with two grates. One is a log grate which is placed at the bottom of the pit to protect it from direct heat and also ensure adequate airflow around and under the logs. The second is a cooking grate, which can be placed on top of the fire bowl, and serves as a useful grill for burgers, corn-on-the-cob, or anything else you’d like to grill. The cooking grate also has a small, swinging door which can be lifted up to add more wood without having to displace the cooking grate when it is in use.
This 26-inch portable fire pit for camping is also super easy to transport. It features a folding design – its sturdy curved legs, which provide excellent stability and support on all kinds of terrain, can be folded compactly underneath the pit, making it super easy to transport. To add to the portability factor, it comes with a carrying case, into which you can conveniently slip the folded fire pit. The bag features super strong zippers and two loop handles for easy carrying.
Best of all, this fire pit grill comes with an AmazonBasics 1-Year Limited Warranty, for added buyer protection.
7 place :
AmazonBasics Steel Lattice Fire Pit Review
7 place :
The AmazonBasics Steel Lattice Fire Pit is ideal for anyone looking to transform their parties and evenings with an attractive new centerpiece for their yard and patio. Providing warmth and serving as an attractive focal point for any outdoor gathering, this fire pit is perfect whether you’re hosting an elegant evening gathering, or simply enjoying a summer evening with the family.
This standing fire pit comes with multiple attractive features. Its sturdy and durable steel construction means it is built to last and withstand prolonged usage. Three, slightly angled legs ensure that the unit is stable and can be placed anywhere securely. It is also incredibly easy to assemble, and no special tools are required to put it together.
The fire bowl is large (23 ½ inch), which means you can fit in larger logs and build bigger fires. In addition, this home fire pit is also visually appealing – it has a sleek black finish, and features an attractive lattice design which runs along the sides, and offers a 360 degree view. Ring handles on either side add to the beauty of the unit and also provide an easy and convenient way to transport the device if required.
This yard fire pit also comes equipped with a dome-shaped spark guard screen, which offers you and your guests’ protection from flying sparks and embers. A loop handle on top allows for easy removal and placement. It also comes with a fire poker, which will keep you at a safe distance from the flames and heat.
This fire pit is also covered by the AmazonBasics 1-Year Limited Warranty, which is an added bonus.
8 place :
Fire Sense Folding Fire Pit Review
8 place :
If you’re looking for a small, easily portable, yet features-packed cheap fire pit, you should definitely consider the Fire Sense Folding Fire Pit. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it in your own backyard, or take the fire pit along to the beach or camping site, this unit by Fire Sense has got you covered. This mini fire pit comes with a variety of features. It offers top quality construction – well-built, using sturdy steel painted with heat resistant paint, this product pit will last you a long time. It is also easy to assemble, with no extra tools required for the job.
The Fire Sense pit is the best fire pit for outdoor adventures among the cheaper models. It features foldable legs and comes with a carrying bag, to ensure easy portability. It also comes with additional useful accessories. One of these is the heat resistant mesh screen, which can be used to protect onlookers from rogue sparks and embers that might fly out of the blaze. A screen lifting tool is also provided with this small fire pit, so you can place or remove the screen safely without bringing your hands too close.
Two types of grates are also included with the unit. One is a log grate, to be placed at the bottom of the pit and keep the logs elevated, in order to provide maximum airflow. The other is a cooking grate, which can be placed atop the flames, to turn the fire pit into a mini grill.
9 place :
ZENY Outdoor Fire Pit Review
9 place :
If you’re looking for an outdoor fire pit table that can do it all, the ZENY’s best fire pit is definitely worth considering. It is perfect for a variety of activities and can be the perfect addition to your backyard, to make it easier to have a great time outdoors.
The ZENY black fire pit table comes packed with multiple features. Most notably, this is a three-in-one product. It unit can be used as a fire pit, as a cold storage for drinks (fill it with ice and pop your bottles/cans in), and as a BBQ grill (simply cover it with a grill rack, and cook food on it). This means triple the functionality!
The ZENY modern fire pit also features an attractive and eye-catching design. It is made of metal and has a faux stone line design all around the edges – not only does this look great, but it is also a convenient place for people to place their drinks, etc.
However, this best fire pit table is not just a pretty face – it is a high-quality product that is durable and built to last. The structure of the pit is put together after receiving multiple anti-rust pickling treatments and is also given an anti-corrosive pre-painting.
The ZENY outdoor wood burning fire pit table also comes with numerous accessories, which make it an easy and convenient unit to use. The safety mesh spark guard is used to contain the flames for safety, and also ensure that no flying sparks or embers hurt anyone nearby. It also includes a charcoal rack, a fire poker, a stainless steel mesh woven-wire base, a BBQ grill surface that is safe for grilling food, and a water-proof cloth cover which can be used to protect the product from the elements, and keep out any water, leaves, dirt, and other debris.
10 place :
Endless Summer Outdoor Fire Bowl with Lattice Revie
10 place :
As the best fire pit manufactured by Endless Summer we chose their outdoor fire bowl with lattice, which is a rare, successful combination of beauty with functionality. This product is perfect for everything from summer nights to chilly autumn evenings, camping trips, and beach parties. It is the perfect addition to any backyard deck or patio and can brighten up an outdoor gathering in no time.
This high-quality fire pit has plenty of aesthetic appeals – its oil-rubbed bronze finish gives it a deep burnished glow, while the geometric design adds to the visual appeal. It will complement any outdoor décor scheme you have in place.
The design features a 24-in diameter bowl which is deep enough to accommodate larger logs and makes for bigger, more long-lasting fires. This means the lam will burn long into the night while you gather round to toast marshmallows, tell stories, and enjoy the company of friends and family.
The construction of this bonfire pit is durable and strong, and yet lightweight enough to be portable in case you wish to move the fire pit around or take it with you to other locations. It requires assembly, but the entire process is simple and takes no time at all.
This metal fire pit also comes with a high-quality mesh spark guard for added safety, which can be placed on top of the unit when it is in use, to protect you and your loved ones from any flying sparks or embers. This product also has a one-year limited warranty.
Best Fire Pits Buying Guide
While fire pits are a great way to bring warmth and personality to your outdoor space, choosing the right one can be a difficult task. In addition to the vast selection of products available, there are also multiple factors to take into account, such as the different types of fuel source, materials, and sizes, not to mention your intended usage and any additional accessories you might require. These are all aspects that need to be considered during the process of selecting and purchasing the absolute best fire pit for your garden.
To aid you in the process, and ensure that you’re equipped with all the information you need to make the right choice, we’ve compiled a comprehensive buying guide, to simplify the entire process for you. This guide contains all the key points you need to consider and be aware of before you set out to select and buy a fire pit. Read on for our expert tips and info.
What are the Benefits of a Fire Pit?
There are many reasons why this product can make a great addition to your backyard or patio. Firstly, the most obvious reason is the warmth they provide. They can be great for pleasant summer nights, and can warm up frosty fall evenings. In addition they provide a safe way to enjoy flames – they are contained in the fire bowl which prevents it from spreading, and accessories such as spark guards can keep you and your loved ones protected from flying sparks and embers. Fire pits will also keep any resulting messes (such as ash or other debris) contained in one place, and all you have to do to clean up is empty the fire bowl into the trash after everything has had a chance to cool down.
Another major benefit of the top fire pits is the aesthetic appeal they provide. They can really add to the outdoor ambience, and enhance the décor of your patio/backyard. They also serve as excellent talking points at gatherings, and are great for entertaining purposes, as guests tend to congregate around them for warmth and conversation.
Finally, best fire pits are also beneficial because of the wide range of uses they have. In addition to the obvious warmth and light they provide, they also are excellent for toasting marshmallows and roasting hot dogs in the backyard. If required, they can be covered with a cooking grate and used to grill food, and if portable, they can be taken along to campsites or beaches. You can even use them as a quick and easy way to dispose of bills and old documents.
Types of Fire Pits
There are three main types of fire pits, which vary in terms of their fuel source. Being familiar with all three types can help you determine which one you need, and make the selecting process a whole lot easier.
Wood Burning FirePits
This is the most common and popular type. They tend to be cheaper than the other varieties and are also the most readily available, and easiest to set up and use. In addition, they also create the biggest, brightest, and hottest fires out of all other variants. If you’re looking for the bright and cheery comfort of a crackling bonfire, this is the device for you.
The best wood burning fire pits come in varying sizes, from small table-top and foldable models, to larger ones with big fire bowls that can accommodate huge fires. They generally come with mesh guards to protect against sparks, a poker to stoke the bonfire, a log grate on which to place the wood, and a cooking grate on which you may grill food.
While they are obviously the most authentic type, the wood burning variety can have its drawbacks. Starting a fire in a wood burning fire pit takes time and effort, and you will, additionally, need to look into purchasing and storing wood. Ashes will also need to be disposed of at the end of every use.
Propane fire pits
These are fueled by propane gas tanks, and the best thing about them is that you can have flames going with a simple push of a button, and their intensity can be controlled easily – definitely less labor-intensive than wood-burning models. Since no wood is involved, there are also no messes or ash, and no resulting clean-up.
This type is generally larger in size as compared to their wood burning counterparts, and tend to be more ornate in terms of design. Some models are portable, while others are built into tables, with the propane tank hidden from view for aesthetic reasons.
The only problems with a propane fire pit are that you will need to keep purchasing liquid propane, which is pricier than regular wood, and the tanks will need to be replaced every time they run out. In addition, you will also need to be wary of gas leaks, as these can be dangerous.
Natural gas fire pits
The most expensive of the lot, natural gas fire pits are hooked up to a natural gas line, so you will need to check whether such a line is available and accessible to your backyard where you will be placing it.
The set-up and installation will involve the hiring of a licensed professional to connect your device to the gas line, and if there is no gas line running to your backyard, you will need to shell out a lot of money for plumbing.
However, once installed, this type is absolutely worth it. Since it is connected to a gas line, you will, effectively, never run out of fuel. There is also no bulky propane tank to disrupt your décor, and no wood to create a mess, post-fire. All you need to do to operate this kind of pit is to use the simple ignition and control mechanism.
While the initial expense is substantial, these pits tend to be the most economical to maintain and cleanest to use in the long run.
In addition to varying in terms of their fuel source, they can also vary in terms of style. Some of the more popular designs include the following:
Portable fire pit
This type is ideal for moving around and taking along on camping trips. They generally feature foldable legs, are relatively lightweight, and can be stored in a carrying case for easy transport from one location to the other. While they are portable, they may lack the sturdiness and durability of larger, heavier models, and will generally be unable to accommodate very large fires.
Fire pit table
These types of top-rated fire pits are designed for easy entertaining and decorative purposes. Shaped like a table, with the fire bowl located in the middle, these fire pit tables are generally sleek and large and feature a rim surrounding the fire bowl, where people can put up their feet or place their drinks. This type looks especially attractive on patios.
Choose a Fire Pit according to your Needs
When purchasing the best fire pit, in addition to knowing about the various types of fire pits the market has to offer, it is also essential to know what your priorities and needs are, as this will help you narrow down your options.
If all you’re looking for is a small cozy fire to enjoy with family in the evenings, a basic fire pit with a standard 20-25 inch diameter will suffice. These are good for placing on a patio, and using for warmth and some light s’more-making.
However, if you have bigger plans, and intend to use it as a part-time grill, you will need to buy a bigger pit, and also ensure that it comes with/can accommodate a cooking grate. There’s nothing quite like a fire pit BBQ.
If you’re looking for a device you can take along to the beach or on camping trips, a foldable portable model is your best bet.
Meanwhile if entertaining is your prime intended use, you will need to invest in a bigger model (35-45 inch) and might want to consider the sleeker, more decorative units, which have features such as outside rings on which guests might place their drinks, etc.
How to Use a Fire Pit
While propane and natural gas fire pits are easy enough to use – all it takes is a button/lever to turn them on and customize the height and intensity of flames – there is a particular process that needs to be followed for wood burning fire pits.
- Start by collecting the tinder, kindling, and the fuel. Tinder is what you need to start the fire – this can be newspaper or straw. Kindling is what needs to catch fire from the tinder – this can be small sticks and twigs. Fuel, lastly, is your wood logs. Keep in mind that dry hardwoods such as maple, hickory, and oak burn better than softwoods.
- Ensure your fire pit is well-prepared. Put it away from grass, on a hard, steady and level surface, and ensure that you have assembled the until correctly so that nothing is loose or wobbly. If the fire pit does not come with a log grate on which to place the logs, consider lining the bottom of the fire bowl with sand and then stacking bricks on top.
- Place a handful of tinder in the center of the fire pit, and build a small teepee of kindling around it. Ignite tinder and wait until it catches on to the kindling.
- Gradually start adding small logs. Allow them to start burning before you add the bigger ones. The blaze may gradually fade – to keep it burning, add more tinder and kindling. You can stoke flames using a poker, and use a spark guard to protect from sparks and embers.
- Once you no longer wish to use the fire, stop adding fuel, allow it to die down, and cover it with sand when there are only a few embers left.
- Allow a couple of hours to pass before you dispose of the ashes – make sure they are completely cool by this point.
What is the Best Material for a Fire Pit?
The material the best fire pit is made of determines its appearance, design, and durability. There is no single best material for a fire pit – it all depends on the décor of your backyard, and what you plan to use it for. There are multiple different types of materials, but the following are the most common:
Steel fire pit
Steel fire pits are among the most popular varieties. They are available in multiple models, ranging from relatively inexpensive to more high-end, and are usually lightweight and durable (although they are not as sturdy as cast iron). While some models are weather-resistant, steel can start to rust over time if left unprotected, so it is essential to invest in a cover. However, generally, steel fire pits are low-maintenance.
In terms of the aesthetic appeal, steel can be fairly drab in its original, brushed, untreated form. However, many models come with a black, heat-resistant finish or are powder-coated, which makes them more attractive and more durable. Regardless of its coating, however, steel can get very hot during and after use, so it is essential to treat it with caution and allow it sufficient time to cool down after you are done using it.
Stainless steel
While these might not be as sturdy as most materials, stainless steel fire pits are attractive, sleek, industrial and minimalist in terms of design. In addition, these types of firepits are also rust-free and maintain their eye-catching appearance for a long time. While not a very common material, these models are offered by some manufacturers. However, stainless steel cannot be left out in the open, exposed to the elements, and you will need to invest in a good waterproof cover.
Cast iron fire pit
Cast iron is one of the most popular materials for fire pits. It makes for an extremely sturdy and durable product, which is unlikely to rust. In addition to their durable qualities, cast iron fire pits also radiate the most amount of warmth, as compared to other materials, and are great for grilling and cooking purposes.
However, cast iron fire pits are not always portable, as they tend to be rather heavy, and can also be a bit on the pricey side. In addition, if left exposed to the elements, they can also discolor, so you will need to invest in a heavy-duty cover.
Copper
These type is the most expensive one, but ultimately the most desirable. Copper will never rust, and exposure to flames and heat will only enhance its appearance, allowing it to develop a rich and eye-catching patina over time. In addition to radiating plenty of heat, these products are also ideal in terms of décor and can lend a rustic charm to any backyard.
Fire Pit Sizes
The size of the perfect fire pit you choose should not only depend on what you plan to use it for but also the amount of space you have available. Ideally, you want so that there are no plants, power lines, other structures, or any flammable objects near it, and you’ll need to ensure that there is plenty of room for people to walk comfortably and safely around. Before you make your choice, measure the space where you plan to place it, and then choose a model and size which is in accordance with the amount of available space you have.
Small-sized fire pits
Small sized fire pits are usually 20-30 inches in diameter and are ideal for anyone who is only interested in the occasional use or needs something portable. These models can be moved around with ease, and taken along for camping and beach trips, or to parties at friends’ houses. These are often foldable models and come with carrying cases to allow for easy transport. If you need a device to take along to other locations, have less space, or are not willing to commit to the regular and prolonged use of a fire pit, a small-sized model is your best bet. However, keep in mind that these may not hold a lot of wood or allow for very large fires.
Medium-sized fire pits
Medium sized fire pits are usually 30-38 inches in diameter and are generally the most common. These offer a good balance of moderate size, portability (in some cases), and a nice-sized bonfire. They can hold a good amount of wood, and make for bright, cozy, and longer-lasting fires. Clean-up of ashes is also fairly manageable. These types of models are not foldable and usually consist of a bowl propped up with a stand. However, since medium-sized pits are the most common, there are plenty of options and designs to choose from.
Large-sized fire pits
These tend to be 38 inches or larger in diameter, and are not portable. However, they make for the biggest, most long-lasting fires, and can accommodate large crowds, big cooking grates, and multiple custom design features (such as an outside rim for placing drinks) with ease. Clean-up can be a hassle with this size, as the bowl cannot easily be picked up in order to tip its contents into the trash. Maintenance will also require greater effort on a more regular basis. Only opt for this size if you have sufficient space, plan to use the fire pit regularly for big crowds, and do not need to move the pit around.
Additional Accessories
Fire pits are great additions to backyards, camping trips, and beach parties, but they cannot be used on their own. There are multiple accessories that need to accompany even the best fire pit, in order to make it easy and enjoyable to use. While some models come with accessories included, others require you to buy them separately. Ultimately, when you are looking to buy a fire pit, it is important to take your needs and intended usage into account, to determine which accessories you will require with your purchase.
Fire poker
This is a metal instrument used for tending and stoking the flames. Generally, a fire poker should be long enough so that you can tend to the fire without bringing yourself too close to it, and should have a heat-resistant handle, to provide comfort and easy manoeuvrability. In addition, a poker can also be used to remove or replace the spark guard screen.
Cover
This is an essential accessory, as it protects your fire pit from the elements, and keeps rain, snow, leaves, and other debris from getting in. Covers should generally be made of durable metal or waterproof materials, to ensure adequate protection.
Spark guard
A spark guard is a wire mesh screen (usually shaped like a dome), which is used to contain the flames within the fire bowl, and protect everyone gathered around from any stray flames, sparks, or rogue embers that might end up flying off the bowl. Spark guards usually have a looped handle on top, to allow for easy removal or placement by using a poker.
Log grate
This is a type of grill which is placed at the bottom of a fire pit, to protect the pit and elevate the fire logs to allow for adequate air flow. Sufficient airflow around and underneath the burning logs leads to better burning fires that last longer. Some models come with a log grate built into the design, while others will include one separately. For models that do not include a log grate, customers can either purchase one separately or pour some sand into the bottom of the fire bowl and stack brick on top, upon which they can place the burning logs.
Cooking grate
This is an optional but useful accessory – a cooking grate is a grill which can be placed on top of the fire pit, and used to grill foods like steak, burgers, corn, shish kabobs, or the like. This is a super useful accessory for entertaining.
Carrying case
This accessory is only ever included with the best portable fire pit models. Foldable varieties can be neatly zipped into their carrying cases and transported to your location of choice.
Side handles
These are not an accessory per se, but rather a useful feature – heat-resistant handles located on both sides of a fire pit allow for easy transport of the unit.
Fire Pit Safety and Maintenance
While fire pits can be fun, and are a relatively safe way to enjoy a campfire, multiple considerations need to be taken into account, in order to make sure you use your best fire pit in a safe and responsible manner. Here are some safety tips to help you in this regard:
- Always place it on a solid, steady surface – it should not wobble when in use. Keep the flame small and manageable, especially if you are a novice – the bigger the fire, the larger the potential for disaster!
- Keep it away from power lines, all flammable materials, furniture, railings, plants, and trees. It should be located at least 10 feet away from all these things.
- Never use a fire pit indoors, or on a wooden deck. Keep a flame-resistant surface underneath and make sure you use a spark guard, to keep sparks from flying about.
- Clean up in and around the pit before you light it up. Remove all leaves and other combustible materials around the pit, to make sure the fire doesn’t accidentally spread!
- Check the weather forecast. Excessive wind can be dangerous, as it could cause embers to blow about.
- Always keep a container of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher nearby, no matter how many times you may have used the fire pit and how confident you may feel.
- Never leave children and pets around unsupervised, and do not leave a lit fire unattended. Always put a fire out safely – let it die down completely and let the fire pit cool before you move to dispose of the ashes. There should be no glowing coals or ashes in the pit.
- Do not use kerosene or lighter fluid to start your fire. Dry tinder, kindling, and wood logs are all you need. Avoid wearing loose clothing and do not wear materials such as nylon.
- Check with your local authorities on any fire pit guidelines you might be required to adhere to – some areas and states ban fire pits, so staying up to date on local regulations is a must. It is also essential to stay up to date on different burn bans/burn ordinances in effect at particular times of the year.
- If using a natural gas or propane pit, stay alert for any gas leaks. If you smell gas, turn the fire pit off immediately, and have a professional check for leaks.
In addition to using the fire pit safely, it is equally important to maintain it properly. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Use only dry hardwoods as fuel in wood burning fire pits – oak and ash, for example, will result in longer, brighter, and cleaner burning fires.
- Always use a log grate to protect the base from extreme heat – if a log grate is not available, add a shallow layer of sand to the bottom of the pit and stack bricks on top on which to place the logs.
- Never burn trash, edible items, or any other potentially messy or smelly items in your fire pit.
- Always allow the flames to die down gradually and naturally. When you are done using it, stop adding fuel and allow it to burn out. When it is out, you may rake through the ashes to make sure it has died completely, and there are no glowing embers remaining. Never pour cold water or any other fluids to put the flames out, as this can cause a big mess and warp the hot metal of the fire bowl.
- Use a shovel and brush to clean out the fire pit and remove any ash. Always clean it before and after use, once it has cooled down.
- When not in use, keep the fire pit empty, clean and covered – if it is left dirty or exposed to the elements, it may develop rust, warp, and deteriorate well before it should.
Conclusion
A fire pit is a fun product to own – not only can it light up a backyard and provide comfort, warmth and good cheer, its more portable versions make for great and convenient companions on camping trips and at beach visits. However, finding the best outside fire pit for your needs and specifications can be a complicated task. When purchasing one, it is essential to be informed about the different types that are available, the varying uses to which they can be put (and what exactly you need one for), the different materials and sizes they are available in, and any additional accessories that might be required to complete your fire pit experience. In addition, it is important to be well-informed about the safe usage and maintenance before you actually purchase one.
Lack of information and guidance leads to poor decisions, and money wasted. That’s why we have put together the ultimate buying guide. Here, you’ll find all the information you need to make the smartest and best decision.
In addition to our comprehensive guide, we have also gone ahead and picked out the best-rated fire pits for you to consider. After carefully reviewing the features of each, and looking through countless customer reviews, we’ve compiled ten best fire pits reviews to make the selection process easier for you. Our reviews of best-selling fire pits will help steer you toward the best purchase possible.
While each of the fire pits we have reviewed is unique and attractive in its own way, if we had to pick an all-around winner, the title of the absolute best fire pit would go to the Solo Stove Bonfire Stainless Steel fire pit. This fire pit represents the perfect combination of beauty and function. It is compact, efficient, beautiful, and user-friendly. The fire pit is constructed with premium grade stainless steel, for a minimalist and sleek finish. It is a truly modern contraption which will add to the décor of any backyard or patio.
In addition, it is also incredibly efficient at what it does. Built using a patented double wall design, the fire pit maximizes air flow, and guarantees brighter, cleaner, and longer-lasting fires for you to enjoy. This design also ensures that there is little to no smoke, and fewer logs need to be used.
Its beauty and efficiency are only matched by its ease of use. Assembly takes a second and required no tools, and there is no installation needed – simply put it together, place it wherever you want, and it is ready for use. The cherry on top of the cake is the carry case included with the fire pit, which makes for easy, fuss-free transport. Combined, all these features make the Solo Stove Bonfire Stainless Steel fire pit a winner in our books. We hope you found the best backyard fire pit for you in this article!
