Space is tight on a narrowboat — and when you’re carrying solid fuels like logs or briquettes, safe storage becomes just as important as heat output. Poor storage can lead to damp fuel, mess, or even safety risks. But with a few smart tips, you can stay warm, tidy and safe all season.
Choose Clean-Burning, Low-Mess Fuels
Before you think about where to store it, choose the right fuel. Coal is dusty and smelly — not ideal in a small cabin. That’s why many boaters are switching to briquettes, which are compact, dry and virtually mess-free. Kiln dried logs like ash or birch are another excellent option, especially when they're neatly boxed and Ready to Burn.
At The Logsmith, all our firewood and briquettes are under 15% moisture and packaged in recyclable boxes — making them easier to store neatly and safely on board.
Avoid Damp & Condensation
Boats can be prone to condensation, especially in winter. Keep fuel raised off the floor — a small crate or pallet will do — and avoid storing boxes directly against metal hull walls. Even kiln dried wood will absorb moisture if left in a damp spot too long.
Ventilation is key. If you’re storing fuel in the bow, stern locker or any closed compartment, make sure there’s a bit of airflow to prevent mould or rot.
Use Compact, Stackable Fuel Options
One of the biggest advantages of briquettes is how little space they take up. You’ll get far more burn time per cubic centimetre compared to loosely stacked logs or bulky coal sacks.
Our briquette boxes are roughly 30 × 30 × 30 cm and can be easily stacked or tucked into a storage nook without mess or spillage.
Only Keep What You Need Onboard
Especially if your boat is on the move, avoid overloading with too much fuel. Keep one or two boxes of briquettes, a bundle of kindling, and a few natural firelighters inside for immediate use — and restock as you go. For longer stays or winter mooring, plan a slightly larger supply with airflow and stacking in mind.
Store Kindling & Fire Starters Separately
Kindling is naturally dry and brittle, which means it’ll light easily — but it can also get messy if not stored right. Use a small box, tin or firewood basket with a lid to contain kindling, and store natural fire starters in a dry drawer or cupboard near the stove.
Safety First
-
Never store fuel near your stove’s flue or door
-
Don’t leave fuel blocking emergency exits
-
Use smoke and CO detectors on board — always essential when burning any fuel indoors
Living on a boat means making every square centimetre count — and that includes fuel. With clean-burning options like briquettes and kiln dried logs, plus a few smart storage choices, you can stay warm and safe without compromising your space.