When space is tight, every decision counts — especially how you heat your home. Whether you're living on a narrowboat, in a tiny house, or tucked away in an off-grid cabin, choosing the right fuel means balancing heat output, efficiency, and storage space. Here are five of the best options.
1. Wood Briquettes
Topping the list, briquettes are a compact powerhouse. Made from compressed sawdust, they offer:
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Excellent heat output
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Uniform shape and size
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Low moisture (under 10%)
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Long burn time
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Minimal ash
They’re easy to stack, store, and portion. Many boaters and cabin owners rely on briquettes for their main fuel.
2. Kiln Dried Hardwood Logs
Don’t rule out traditional logs — especially when they’re kiln dried. Species like oak, ash and birch offer:
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Efficient, clean combustion
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Natural flame and aroma
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Different burn styles (oak = slow, birch = fast)
Opt for smaller log sizes designed for compact stoves, like those we offer at The Logsmith.
3. Natural Fire Starters
Forget chemical blocks or petrol-soaked cubes. Natural firelighters (like wax-coated wood wool) are:
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Small and lightweight
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Clean-burning with no chemical smell
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Easy to store in cupboards or kindling crates
Perfect for quick ignition without sacrificing eco credentials.
4. Kindling Sticks
Kindling gets your fire going quickly and helps avoid smoky starts. Choose dry, cut-to-length kindling that:
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Lights easily and burns fast
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Comes in space-saving bundles
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Can be stored with your fire starters
We always recommend pairing kindling with briquettes or logs for a smooth ignition.
Small Space, Big Warmth
Just because you live small doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort. With the right fuel — and smart storage — you can enjoy long-lasting warmth with minimal hassle.
At The Logsmith, we supply fuels perfect for compact living: from briquettes and kindling to kiln dried logs in small sizes and fully recyclable packaging. Warmth, the smart way.