How to Enjoy a Warm Fire Without Smelling Like Smoke

Enjoying a fire is a great way to relax and unwind, whether you’re sitting around a campfire, a fireplace, or a fire pit. However, one of the downsides of enjoying a fire is that it can leave you smelling like smoke. This can be a big problem, especially if you’re planning to go out after enjoying a fire, or if you’re sensitive to the smell of smoke. But don’t worry, there are a few things you can do to enjoy a fire without smelling like you spent an hour hanging out in a chimney.

Helpful Ways to Avoid Smelling Like Smoke

• Select the right wood. The first tip is to make sure that you’re using the right type of wood. (This applies whether it’s an indoor or outdoor fire.) Hardwoods, such as oak and hickory burn hotter and cleaner than softwoods, such as pine and cedar. They also release less smoke and create less creosote, which is a sticky, tar-like substance that can build up in your chimney and cause a fire hazard.
  If you’re trying to be conscientious about smoke, always verify what kind of wood you’re burning. It’s also smart to use the driest wood possible, as dry wood releases less smoke than wood that has a higher moisture content.
• Clean your chimney. Another way to enjoy a fire without smelling like smoke is to make sure that your chimney is clean. Creosote can accumulate in your chimney over many years, and it can cause a fire hazard. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your chimney professionally cleaned, it’s a good idea to hire a professional chimney sweep.
  You can also take steps to prevent smoke from entering your home. For example, you can make sure that your fireplace or fire pit is properly vented, and you can keep your windows closed when you’re enjoying a fire. Additionally, you can use a smoke guard, which is a device that sits in front of your fireplace or fire pit and helps to keep smoke from entering your home.
• Opt for a gas fire. Wood is what causes smoke in a fire. If you want to enjoy a fire without smoke, the best option is to use a gas fire instead. You can do this whether you’re inside or outside.
  If you’re outside, try a propane fire pit, which allows you to enjoy the heat and comfort of the fire without any smoke whatsoever. If you’re inside, you have several options, including gas and electric.
• Introduce other smells. If you’re really worried about smoke and aren’t able to contain or eliminate all of it, a scented candle or an essential oil diffuser can help neutralize the smell. These can mask the smell of smoke and create a pleasant aroma in your home. Some popular scents for this purpose include lavender, vanilla, and citrus.
  You can also use a deodorizing spray to freshen up your home after you’ve enjoyed a fire. This is a great option if you don’t have time to clean or if you’re sensitive to the smell of smoke. You can find a variety of deodorizing sprays on the market that help to neutralize the smell of smoke and freshen up your home.
• Clean up afterward. Anytime you’ve been around a smokey fire, try to take a shower or bath. This helps to remove the smell of smoke from your hair and skin. Additionally, you can use a natural body wash or shampoo that contains essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, which neutralizes the smell of smoke.
  Can’t get to a shower? You can also use a dry shampoo to freshen up your hair. This is a great option if you don’t have time to take a shower or bath, and it can help to remove the smell of smoke from your hair. For clothing, use a dryer sheet.

Putting it All Together

Enjoying a fire can be a great way to relax and unwind, but it can also leave you smelling like smoke. But if you apply some of the tips summarized in this article, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Try a couple of these and let us know what you think!