Tis the season for getting cozy by the fire. If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, there are certain types of wood you should and should not burn. Learn about the best burning wood and which types to avoid to ensure a safe and healthy season.

Best Burning Wood for Fireplaces

Whether you’ve just removed a tree and are looking to reuse the wood or you’re looking to replenish your stockpile for the winter, there are certain varieties of wood that are better for burning.

1. Birch.  This dense hardwood offers a high heat output and long burn times. If you’re purchasing a dried birch product, it’s most likely mixed with another type of hardwood to minimize the phloem naturally found in the bark. Without this process, birch can retain too much moisture content making it less effective to burn.
2. Ash. Another hardwood that creates a clean, steady flame. These eco-friendly logs also produce long burn times, even if it’s still relatively green.
3. Apple. Wood from apple trees emit a lovely fragrance when burned. It also burns slowly and produces a manageable amount of smoke, making it ideal for indoor use and cooking inside or out.
4. Oak. Allow this wood to dry for at least a year before burning. The long burn time, minimal smoke, and wonderful crackling sound is worth the wait.
5. Beech. This dense, low-moisture wood also has a long, slow burn time with a pleasant smell.

No matter what type of wood you want to burn, make sure it’s dry and seasoned. This helps ensure it’s easier to light and will provide longer, less smoky burns.

Wood Not to Burn

Certain woods can be dangerous to burn, as they produce toxic fumes and smoke. Keep these varieties out of fireplaces, stoves, and fire pits.

1. Green wood. This is newly cut wood that hasn’t been dried or seasoned. Burning this wood produces more creosote—a thick, tar-like substance that blocks chimneys. Not only does this increase the risk of a chimney fire, but it also leads to poor ventilation and possible intoxication inside your home.
2. Moldy or rotten wood. If you’ve cut down an old or diseased tree, any infected pieces should be disposed of properly. It’s even more important to ensure wood is dry enough to prevent more mold and rot. Burning this wood is not only less effective, but it releases more smoke, odor, and pollutants in the air.
3. Driftwood. Since this wood has been soaked in salty water, it contains chlorine and gives off harmful chemicals and toxins when burned. Freshwater driftwood is not any better, as it’s been floating around for a long time absorbing whatever else is in the water.
4. Plywood. If you have old wooden furniture, chances are this wood has been treated, painted, or applied with adhesive. Burning any of these products releases harmful toxins.
5. Toxic trees and woody shrubs. If the plant produces a poisonous vine, it’s obviously a bad idea to burn it. But there are some trees—such as cherry, yew, and oleander—that are also not meant to be burned. If you’re unsure, do some research or stick with the hardwoods in the previous list.

While it may be temping to recycle old wood or find a use for a recently cut tree, be sure you know what type of wood you’re about to burn—especially if it’s going inside. Stick to the high-quality hardwoods that are not only safer to burn but produce a high heat with minimal smoke for a more pleasant experience.