Newspaper In Solo Stove: Fire Starter?

Nov 3, 2025 by SLV Team 39 views

Let's dive into whether you can use newspaper to start a fire in your Solo Stove. For those new to the game, Solo Stoves are these super cool, portable fire pits designed for efficient burning and minimal smoke. They're awesome for backyard hangouts, camping trips, or just chilling on the patio. But, like any fire pit, you need the right materials to get that fire going strong. So, can newspaper be part of your fire-starting strategy? Keep reading, guys, and we'll break it down.

The Role of Newspaper in Fire Starting

Newspaper has long been a go-to for starting fires, whether in a fireplace, campfire, or, in this case, a Solo Stove. Its thinness and ability to catch a flame quickly make it an attractive option. However, there are a few things to consider when using newspaper, especially in a Solo Stove. You see, Solo Stoves are designed to burn wood efficiently, using a unique airflow system. This system requires the fire to be relatively clean-burning to function optimally. When you burn newspaper, it produces a lot of ash and can release inks and other chemicals into the air. These factors can impact the stove's performance and potentially be harmful to the environment and your health. When using newspaper as a fire starter, crumple a few sheets loosely. You want air to circulate around the paper to help it catch fire quickly. Place the crumpled newspaper at the bottom of your Solo Stove. Then, add small kindling, such as twigs or small pieces of wood, on top of the newspaper. Light the newspaper in several places to ensure it catches evenly. As the newspaper burns, the kindling should catch fire. Gradually add larger pieces of wood to build the fire. However, avoid using too much newspaper, as it can create excessive smoke and ash, which can be counterproductive in a Solo Stove. While newspaper can be a convenient option, be mindful of its potential drawbacks and consider alternatives for a cleaner, more efficient fire.

Pros and Cons of Using Newspaper

Before you grab that stack of old newspapers, let's weigh the pros and cons.

Pros:

Accessibility: Newspaper is readily available in most households. You probably have a pile of old newspapers lying around, making it a convenient option for starting a fire. No need to run to the store or scavenge for other materials. This accessibility makes newspaper a practical choice for those impromptu fire pit sessions.
Ease of Ignition: Newspaper is incredibly easy to light. It's thin and dry, which means it catches a flame quickly. This is especially helpful when you're trying to get a fire going in less-than-ideal conditions, like when the wood is a bit damp or the weather is chilly. A quick spark, and you're on your way to a roaring fire.
Cost-Effective: Using newspaper is a budget-friendly way to start a fire. Since you're likely recycling something you already have, it doesn't cost you anything extra. This is a great perk for those who enjoy using their Solo Stove frequently, as it keeps the cost of fire-starting materials down.

Cons:

Ash Production: Newspaper produces a significant amount of ash when burned. This can be a problem in a Solo Stove because the ash can accumulate and potentially block the airflow, reducing the stove's efficiency. Regularly cleaning out the ash is essential if you rely on newspaper as a fire starter.
Inks and Chemicals: Newspapers are printed with inks and sometimes treated with chemicals. When burned, these substances can release harmful fumes into the air. This is not ideal, especially if you're sensitive to smoke or concerned about air quality. It's always better to minimize the release of pollutants when enjoying a fire.
Short Burn Time: Newspaper burns very quickly. While this is helpful for initial ignition, it doesn't provide a sustained flame. You'll need to be quick to add kindling and wood to keep the fire going. This short burn time means newspaper is best used as a starter, not a fuel source.

Better Alternatives for Fire Starters

Okay, so newspaper has its drawbacks. What are some better options for starting a fire in your Solo Stove? Here are a few alternatives that are cleaner, more efficient, and just as easy to use:

Kiln-Dried Wood: Using kiln-dried wood to start your fire is a superior alternative to newspaper. Kiln-dried wood has been baked in specialized ovens to remove virtually all moisture. This process results in wood that lights quickly, burns efficiently, and produces significantly less smoke. Starting your fire with kiln-dried wood ensures a clean and consistent burn, perfect for enjoying your Solo Stove without unnecessary hassle. Its low moisture content makes it easy to ignite with a simple match or lighter, and it sustains a steady flame to get your fire roaring in no time. Plus, kiln-dried wood doesn't contain the chemicals and additives found in some fire starters, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly choice.
Fatwood: Fatwood is another excellent natural fire starter. It's wood that's heavily saturated with resin, making it incredibly easy to light and long-burning. A small piece of fatwood can get your kindling going in no time. Because of its high resin content, fatwood lights up quickly and burns hot, providing a reliable flame to ignite your kindling. It’s also a natural product, free from the chemicals and additives found in many commercial fire starters. To use fatwood effectively, shave off small pieces or slivers and place them at the base of your kindling pile. Light the fatwood shavings, and they will produce a strong, sustained flame that easily catches the kindling. This method is particularly useful in damp conditions or when you need a dependable fire starter for your Solo Stove.
Commercial Fire Starters: Consider using commercial fire starters as a hassle-free alternative to newspaper. These are designed to light quickly and burn for a decent amount of time, giving your kindling a chance to catch. Many commercial fire starters are made from natural materials like wood shavings and wax, making them a cleaner option than newspaper. They are engineered to light easily and burn consistently, providing a reliable flame that gets your kindling going without much fuss. Look for starters made from natural materials like wood fibers and wax to minimize the release of harmful chemicals. Simply place the fire starter at the base of your kindling pile and light it. The consistent flame will ignite the kindling, allowing you to build a robust fire in your Solo Stove with minimal effort. This option is especially convenient for those who want a quick and easy fire-starting solution.
Wood Pellets: Wood pellets offer a fantastic alternative for starting a fire in your Solo Stove. These small, compressed cylinders of wood waste are designed for efficient burning and are incredibly easy to use. They light quickly and provide a consistent, high-heat flame, making them perfect for getting your kindling going. Wood pellets are also environmentally friendly, as they are made from recycled wood waste and burn cleanly, producing minimal smoke and ash. To use wood pellets, simply place a small pile at the bottom of your Solo Stove and light them with a match or lighter. The pellets will ignite rapidly and produce a steady flame, allowing you to add kindling and build your fire gradually. This method is particularly effective because the pellets provide a concentrated source of heat, ensuring that your kindling catches quickly and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Fire in a Solo Stove

Alright, let's walk through how to get that Solo Stove roaring, step by step:

Gather Your Materials: Collect your chosen fire starter, kindling (small twigs and branches), and firewood. Make sure your wood is dry for the best results.
Prepare the Stove: Ensure your Solo Stove is clean and free of excessive ash. Good airflow is key.
Layer Your Materials: Place your fire starter at the bottom of the stove. Arrange kindling around and over the fire starter in a teepee or log cabin style. This allows air to circulate and helps the kindling catch.
Light It Up: Ignite the fire starter in several places to ensure an even burn. Watch as the kindling catches and the flames grow.
Add Firewood: Once the kindling is burning strong, gradually add larger pieces of firewood. Don't overload the stove; allow space for air to flow.
Maintain the Fire: Continue to add firewood as needed, arranging the logs to maintain a steady flame. Enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your Solo Stove!

Tips for a Successful Fire

Want to be a Solo Stove fire master? Here are some extra tips to ensure a successful and enjoyable fire:

Use Dry Wood: This is crucial. Wet wood is hard to light and produces a lot of smoke. Seasoned firewood is your best bet.
Control Airflow: Solo Stoves are designed for efficient airflow. Don't block the vents or overload the stove with wood.
Start Small: Begin with small pieces of kindling and gradually add larger logs. This helps build a strong, sustainable fire.
Be Patient: Starting a fire takes a little time. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't light immediately. Keep adjusting the materials and airflow until it catches.
Safety First: Always keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby. Never leave a fire unattended, and be mindful of your surroundings.

Conclusion

So, can you use newspaper to start a fire in a Solo Stove? Technically, yes. But, there are better, cleaner, and more efficient options available. Newspaper can work in a pinch, but the ash, chemicals, and short burn time make it less than ideal. Alternatives like kiln-dried wood, fatwood, and commercial fire starters offer a superior experience, ensuring your Solo Stove burns efficiently and provides a cozy, smoke-free ambiance. Happy burning, folks!