Hey there! If you’re like me, you love the cozy vibe of a fire pit but don’t always have the space or time for a big backyard blaze. That’s where the Solo Stove Mesa comes in—a compact, smokeless tabletop fire pit that’s perfect for small patios, balconies, or even a quick outdoor gathering. But here’s the thing: to make the most of your Mesa, you need the right fuel. That’s why I’m diving deep into the world of mini firewood for Mesa Solo Stove. I’ve spent hours experimenting with this little fire pit, testing different fuels, and figuring out what works best. In this article, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned to help you create those warm, memorable moments with your Mesa. Let’s get started!
Why Mini Firewood Matters for Your Solo Stove Mesa
When I first got my Solo Stove Mesa, I was thrilled by its sleek design and promise of a smokeless fire. But I quickly realized that the type of fuel you use makes a huge difference. The Mesa is designed for small spaces, so it needs small, efficient fuel. That’s where mini firewood comes in. These are small logs, typically 3 to 5 inches long, cut specifically for compact fire pits like the Mesa. Unlike regular firewood, mini firewood is sized to fit perfectly in the Mesa’s burn chamber, ensuring a clean, hot burn with minimal smoke.
Mini firewood is often kiln-dried to reduce moisture content, which is a game-changer. Wet wood can create a smoky, sputtering fire that ruins the vibe. With kiln-dried mini firewood, you get a consistent flame that lights easily and burns longer. I’ve found that using the right mini firewood not only makes the fire prettier but also saves you from constantly tending it. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or just enjoying the ambiance, the right fuel sets the tone.
Choosing the Best Mini Firewood for Your Mesa
Picking the right mini firewood can feel overwhelming at first, especially with so many options out there. I’ve tried a few brands and types, and here’s what I’ve learned about what works best for the Mesa.
Hardwood vs. Softwood
Hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry are my go-to for the Mesa. They burn hotter and longer than softwoods, which means less refueling during your fire session. Oak, in particular, is a favorite because it’s dense and creates a steady flame. I’ve used Solo Stove’s Mini Oak Firewood, and it’s fantastic—cut to about 5 inches and kiln-dried for a clean burn.
Softwoods like pine or fir, on the other hand, burn faster and can produce more smoke due to their sap content. I tried using some pine scraps from my backyard once, and the smoke was noticeable—not ideal for a smokeless fire pit like the Mesa. If you’re in a pinch, softwood can work, but stick to hardwood for the best experience.
Kiln-Dried vs. Seasoned
Kiln-dried firewood is a must for the Mesa. The kiln-drying process reduces moisture to 20% or less, which means quicker ignition and less smoke. I’ve found that seasoned wood, while okay for larger fire pits, often has too much moisture for the Mesa’s small burn chamber. When I used some seasoned logs from a local supplier, the fire took longer to start, and I had to add more kindling to keep it going.
Size Matters
The Mesa’s burn chamber is small—about 5 inches in diameter—so your firewood needs to be compact. Most mini firewood is cut to 3 to 5 inches long and 1 to 2 inches thick. I’ve tried stuffing larger pieces in there, and it’s a hassle. They don’t burn efficiently and can block the airflow that makes the Mesa’s 360° Airflow design so effective. Stick to logs labeled for tabletop fire pits or small pizza ovens, like Solo Stove’s Mini Oak or Pico Sticks.
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardwood (Oak, Maple) | Burns hot, long-lasting, low smoke | Slightly pricier | Consistent, smokeless fires |
| Softwood (Pine, Fir) | Affordable, easy to find | More smoke, burns faster | Quick fires, kindling |
| Kiln-Dried | Quick ignition, minimal smoke | Can be expensive | Optimal Mesa performance |
| Seasoned | Widely available | Higher moisture, more smoke | Larger fire pits |
Where to Find Mini Firewood for Your Mesa
Finding the right mini firewood can be a bit of a treasure hunt, but I’ve got some tips to make it easier. Here are my favorite sources based on my own experience.
Solo Stove’s Mini Oak Firewood
Solo Stove sells its own Mini Oak Firewood, and I’ve found it to be a reliable choice. Each piece is cut to about 5 inches long and 1.5 inches thick, perfectly sized for the Mesa. It’s kiln-dried, so it lights quickly and burns cleanly. A box costs around $35 to $45, depending on sales, which might seem pricey, but the convenience is worth it. I usually keep a box on hand for spontaneous fire nights.
Local Suppliers
If you’re looking to save some money, check with local firewood suppliers. Some offer mini logs for tabletop fire pits or pizza ovens. I found a supplier near me who sells 5-inch oak logs for about $25 per bundle. Just make sure the wood is kiln-dried—ask about the moisture content to avoid smoky fires. If they don’t have mini logs, you can buy larger kiln-dried hardwood and cut it down yourself with a saw, but that’s more work than I usually want to do.
Online Retailers
Online stores like Amazon and specialty sites like Pico Sticks are great options. Pico Sticks, for example, offers 3.5-inch mixed hardwood logs (oak, maple, cherry) that are bark-free and kiln-dried. I ordered a 7-pound box for about $30, and it worked beautifully in my Mesa. The bark-free aspect is a nice touch—it keeps the fire pit cleaner and reduces off-flavors if you’re roasting marshmallows. Amazon also has a variety of mini firewood options, often with fast shipping if you’re a Prime member.
DIY Mini Firewood
If you’re handy with a saw, you can make your own mini firewood. I’ve done this a few times with leftover oak from a woodworking project. You’ll need a chop saw or hand saw to cut logs to 3 to 5 inches long and about 1 to 2 inches thick. Make sure the wood is dry—either kiln-dried or well-seasoned—to avoid smoke. It’s a budget-friendly option, but it takes time and effort, so I only do this when I’m feeling extra crafty.
How to Use Mini Firewood in Your Solo Stove Mesa
Using mini firewood in your Mesa is straightforward, but there are a few tricks I’ve learned to get the best results. Here’s my step-by-step guide based on plenty of trial and error.
Step 1: Set Up Your Mesa
Place your Mesa on a stable, heat-resistant surface with its included stand. I usually set mine on a stone patio table, but a metal or concrete surface works too. Avoid wooden tables unless you’re sure they can handle the heat. The stand elevates the Mesa to prevent scorching, but I still place a heat-resistant mat underneath for extra protection.
Step 2: Add Kindling and Fire Starter
Start with a small amount of kindling or a natural fire starter. I like using Solo Stove’s fire starters—they’re small, odorless, and light easily. Place the kindling or starter at the bottom of the burn chamber, then add 4 to 5 pieces of mini firewood. Don’t overfill—the wood should sit below the secondary burn holes to maintain airflow.
Step 3: Light the Fire
Use a long kitchen lighter to ignite the fire starter. I made the mistake of using a short lighter once, and it was tricky to reach into the small burn chamber. Once the kindling catches, the mini firewood should ignite within a minute or two. The Mesa’s 360° Airflow design pulls air through the bottom holes, creating a hot, efficient flame.
Step 4: Maintain the Fire
The Mesa burns for about 30 minutes with mini firewood before needing more fuel. I add 2 pieces every 10 minutes or so to keep the flame going. If the fire starts to die down, a small piece of kindling can help reignite it. Be careful not to smother the fire by adding too much wood at once—less is more with the Mesa.
Step 5: Extinguish and Clean
When you’re done, let the fire burn out naturally or use the Mesa’s lid to smother it. I usually let the ashes cool completely before emptying them into a metal container. The Mesa’s stainless steel is easy to clean with a damp cloth, and using bark-free mini firewood keeps it even tidier.
Comparing Mini Firewood to Pellets for the Mesa
The Mesa is a dual-fuel fire pit, meaning you can use either mini firewood or wood pellets. I’ve tried both, and each has its pros and cons. Here’s how they stack up.
Mini Firewood
Mini firewood gives you that classic campfire feel—crackling flames, a warm glow, and a slightly smoky aroma (though still minimal with kiln-dried wood). I love the ritual of stacking small logs and watching the fire build. It’s also easier to maintain a steady flame with firewood because it creates a bed of embers that reignites easily. The downside? It’s pricier than pellets, and you might need to order it online if local suppliers don’t carry mini logs.
Wood Pellets
Pellets are super convenient—scoop them in, light them, and you’re done. They’re widely available at hardware stores and often cheaper, with a 20-pound bag costing $5 to $20. I’ve used BBQ pellets from my grill, and they work fine in the Mesa, especially with the dual-fuel grate (newer Mesa models don’t need a separate pellet adapter). Pellets burn longer—up to 45 minutes in my tests—but they don’t have the same cozy vibe as logs. They also produce more ash, so cleanup takes a bit more effort.
For me, mini firewood wins for ambiance, but pellets are great for quick, no-fuss fires. If you’re torn, try both and see what fits your vibe. I keep a bag of pellets and a box of mini oak firewood on hand for different occasions.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Mesa Fire
After countless evenings with my Mesa, I’ve picked up some tricks to make every fire session amazing. Here are my top tips:
- Use a Fire Starter: Natural fire starters make lighting the Mesa a breeze. I’ve tried newspaper and twigs, but they’re messier and less reliable.
- Don’t Overfill: Packing the burn chamber too full blocks airflow and creates smoke. Stick to 4 to 5 pieces of mini firewood to start.
- Keep It Covered: When not in use, store your Mesa with its lid on to protect it from moisture and debris. I learned this the hard way after a rainstorm left my Mesa rusty.
- Experiment with Accessories: The Mesa Accessory Pack (sticks, stick rests, pellet scoop, lid) is worth it if you love roasting marshmallows. I use the stick rests to keep my s’mores game strong.
- Check Local Laws: Some cities have restrictions on open fires, even small ones like the Mesa. I checked with my local fire department to make sure it’s okay to use on my balcony.
Maintaining Your Solo Stove Mesa for Long-Term Use
The Mesa is built to last, but a little care goes a long way. Here’s how I keep mine in top shape.
Cleaning After Each Use
After every fire, I let the Mesa cool completely—usually overnight—before emptying the ashes. A quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps the stainless steel shiny. If you use bark-free mini firewood, there’s less residue, which makes cleanup easier.
Storing Properly
I store my Mesa in a dry, covered area to prevent rust. The included nylon carrying case is great for travel or keeping it safe from the elements. If you have the ceramic-coated version, the finish holds up well, but I still avoid leaving it outside during heavy rain.
Inspecting for Wear
The Mesa’s stainless steel flame ring will develop a patina over time, which I think adds character. Check the dual-fuel grate occasionally for warping or debris buildup. I’ve had no issues with mine after a year of regular use, but it’s good to keep an eye on it.
Why I Love My Solo Stove Mesa
The Mesa has become my go-to for cozy outdoor nights. Whether I’m roasting marshmallows with friends or just relaxing with a glass of wine, it creates the perfect ambiance without the hassle of a big fire pit. Mini firewood makes it easy to enjoy a clean, smokeless fire that burns just long enough for a quick gathering. I’ve taken my Mesa to picnics, tailgates, and even a friend’s tiny apartment balcony, and it’s always a hit.
If you’re on the fence about getting a Mesa or wondering which fuel to use, I can’t recommend mini firewood enough. It’s convenient, burns beautifully, and brings that authentic campfire vibe to any small space. Plus, with the right care, your Mesa will be sparking joy for years to come.
FAQs
What Size Firewood Should I Use for the Solo Stove Mesa?
The Solo Stove Mesa works best with mini firewood cut to 3 to 5 inches long and 1 to 2 inches thick. This size fits perfectly in the burn chamber and allows for proper airflow. Solo Stove’s Mini Oak Firewood or similar products like Pico Sticks are ideal.
Can I Use Regular Firewood in the Mesa?
Regular firewood is too big for the Mesa’s small burn chamber. I’ve tried cutting larger logs down to size, but it’s a lot of work. Stick to mini firewood or pellets designed for tabletop fire pits to get the best results.
How Long Does Mini Firewood Burn in the Mesa?
In my experience, mini firewood burns for about 30 minutes before needing more fuel. Adding 2 pieces every 10 minutes keeps the fire going. Pellets can last up to 45 minutes, depending on how much you use.
Where Can I Buy Mini Firewood for the Mesa?
You can buy mini firewood from Solo Stove, Amazon, or specialty retailers like Pico Sticks. Local firewood suppliers might also carry small logs for tabletop fire pits. Always check that the wood is kiln-dried for a smokeless burn.
Is Mini Firewood Safe for Cooking Over the Mesa?
Yes, kiln-dried hardwood mini firewood, like oak or maple, is safe for cooking things like marshmallows or hot dogs. Avoid softwoods or treated wood, as they can produce harmful smoke or off-flavors.
How Do I Store Mini Firewood?
Store mini firewood in a cool, dry place away from moisture. I keep mine in a sealed container in my garage to prevent mold or dampness. Solo Stove’s Mini Oak Firewood comes in a box that’s easy to store.