When it comes to building a campfire, everyone will tell you that the type of firewood you use makes all the difference. What they're forgetting to mention is that moisture conditions matter. That wood needs to be very dry. To guarantee that it's very dry, buy a digital moisture meter.

Dry firewood is the make-or-break detail for an awesome and safe campfire. If it's wet, the fire may smoke heavily, burn inefficiently, and struggle to stay lit (and it's even worse when it's freshly cut green wood). In contrast, dry wood ignites easily, burns hotter, and produces less smoke. Many consumers haven't heard of a wood moisture meter, but it's an affordable product and can immediately help you determine if the types of wood you're using for a campfire has a low moisture content reading. You don't need to like camping, and you don't need to be a frequent backyard fire enthusiast, but if you're building campfires ever, this is an indispensable tool that will save you a headache.

How to Test Firewood for Dryness

Once you purchase a moisture meter, you'll never question whether the wood surface is too moist, or if the core of the freshly chopped log has a high humidity level. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Select a Piece of Wood: Choose a piece of firewood from your pile. Ideally, the wood should have been split and stored properly for at least six months, but we know how you roll (because we're the same way).
  2. Insert the Moisture Meter Probes: Push the probes of the moisture meter into the wood for deep moisture detection. Ensure the probes are in contact with the inner part of the wood for an accurate reading. (YES, the probes are very sharp. Do not attempt to test your own moisture level.)
  3. Read the Measurement: The assessment of moisture content should be 20% or less for burning. If the reading is higher, the wood needs more time to dry.

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FAQs

How Can I Tell If Firewood Is Dry Without a Moisture Meter?

You can often tell if firewood is dry by its appearance and sound. Dry wood is typically lighter in color, has visible cracks in the ends, and makes a hollow sound when knocked together. Additionally, dry wood is lighter in weight compared to wet wood because it contains less .

What Happens If I Burn Wet Firewood?

Burning wet firewood produces excessive smoke and creosote buildup in your chimney or campfire area. In a fireplace, creosote buildup can lead to unexpected chimney fires. Moreover, in your campfire, wet wood burns inefficiently, which means you’ll need to use more wood to achieve the same amount of heat, making it less economical.

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How Long Does Firewood Take to Dry?

Firewood generally takes about six months to a year to dry properly, depending on the type of wood and environmental conditions. Splitting the wood and storing it in a dry, well-ventilated area can speed up the process. Softwoods tend to dry faster than hardwoods, which can take a full year or more to season adequately.