There’s nothing more relaxing than curling up in front of an open fire on a chilly winter’s eve or morning. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace at home, indoors or out, now’s the time to start stockpiling firewood for the cooler months that lie ahead.
Firewood storage requires careful thought and planning as the wood must stay dry and away from pests for it to burn well (or at all). But chunks of wood are bulky and hard to hide around the home. But don’t worry, there are plenty of firewood storage ideas that get the job done while looking pretty at the same time.
A stack of firewood on the verandah of a contemporary farmhouse with a moody interior colour scheme. (Photography: Abbie Melle)
Outdoor firewood storage
When storing firewood outside in a shed or stacked on a porch, you want to keep it out of the elements, off the ground, and away from water or dampness.
Depending on the size of your home and what kind of storage space you have, it’s practical to have stores of firewood and kindling inside, too, so it’s easy to access when you need to add another log to the fire.
If you rely on your fireplace and your main form of heating, you will require quite a large supply of firewood to get you through winter, especially if you live in a cold climate. In this case, you’ll need an undercover outdoor space like a shed, garage, or outdoor room to store your firewood.
Firewood stockpiled for winter. (Photogaphy: Nic Gossage)
You can also buy log storage sheds and specialty steel shelving if you don’t have the existing space. Due to the risk of termites, it’s wise not to store firewood underneath or close your house.
In areas where bushfires are a risk, storing wood against a house is also unsafe. Be sure to store firewood off the ground to stop it from getting damp and rotting and to prevent pest infestation.
A circular wood stacker by Unearthed Garden at a renovated mid-century modern beach house. (Photography: Marnie Hawson)
The best outdoor firewood storage options
01
VidaXL log storage shed in Brown
$134.99, Matt Blatt
So you’ve heard of mancaves and she sheds, but have you heard of a shed just for your firewood? Keep logs safe and secure and out of the elements with a sturdy galvanised steel holder. This model includes a steel floor frame which helps keep the logs ventilated and dry. The sloped roof will ensure any moisture is directed away from the wood.
Colours: Brown, Anthracite, Green, Grey
02
Heritage Stronghold EasyStack outdoor firewood rack 36″
$271, Woodland Direct
Keep firewood neatly stored on the verandah with this handy and easy-to-assemble rack. Not only will it keep the wood up off the ground, it will also make for an eye-catching display by the back door. It also comes in a larger size if you need it.
Sizes: 36″, 24″, 48″
03
Hearth bin by LogOX
$232.73, Etsy
You needn’t worry about measuring up and selecting the perfect size with this storage boxes’ easy-to-adjust design. The side-wings can be shifted to fit up against a wall, and onto hearths as narrow as 11 inches. Made from American steel, the Hearth bin is equally suited to an indoor fireplace as it is to an outdoor fire pit.
Indoor firewood storage
When storing firewood inside, you only really want to keep enough to get you through a few nights. Masses of logs, timber and sticks attract spiders and other creepy crawlies, so you don’t want stacks of it lying around for long periods of time.
Many modern fireplace designs, have built-in compartments or shelving to store firewood. If this is not the case with yours, baskets, timber crates and metal storage tubs are great for keeping firewood organised and off the floor.
When displayed thoughtfully and somewhat artfully, firewood can double as a decorative display, making your home feel cosy and prepared for the cooler months. These firewood storage accessories are perfect for keeping your indoor stash neat and tidy.
Logs can be stored in this low-lying bench seat, while kindling is kept in baskets on top. (Photography: Brigid Arnott)
The best indoor firewood storage options
01
Costway 40-Inch Firewood Rack
$61.95, Amazon
Firewood stored in a round holder is surprisingly easy on the eye, which is why we love this compact, steel log holder by Costway. Lightweight yet durable, this option perfect for storing firewood by the living room fire, or by fire in an outdoor living space.
02
Hamptons large woven storage trunk range
$199.95, Pillow Talk
If you’re not keen on the idea of displaying extra firewood out for all to see, consider opting for a rattan basket with a lid. This chest from Zanui will fit right into a home styled according to the Hamptons aesthetic and will keep the firewood hidden from view.
03
Leather firewood carrier
$233.17 (usually $297.56), Etsy
Love the idea of a chic, understated way to store firewood indoors? Opt for a luxe, leather sling like this one. Available in three colours, it’s an incredibly chic – and portable – way to store your firewood.
