A wood stove is more than just a source of heat—it’s a centerpiece of comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. But to truly get the most out of your stove, a few key accessories can make all the difference in safety, performance, and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned wood burner or setting up your first stove, here are the best wood stove accessories, divided into must-haves, highly recommended, and optional upgrades.
🔥 Must-Have Wood Stove Accessories
These are essential tools and add-ons that every wood stove owner should have to ensure safe and efficient operation.
1. Stove Thermometer
A stove thermometer helps you burn wood at the optimal temperature, ensuring maximum efficiency while preventing creosote buildup or stove damage from overheating. There are two common types:
- Flue Pipe Thermometers – measure exhaust temperature.
- Surface Thermometers – attach directly to the stove body.
2. Fireproof Hearth Gloves
Handling logs or adjusting burning wood without protection is dangerous. Heavy-duty, heat-resistant gloves protect your hands from burns and allow you to tend your fire with confidence.
3. Ash Shovel and Metal Bucket
Cleaning out ash is part of regular stove maintenance. A metal shovel and ash bucket make this task easier and safer. Always choose a metal bucket with a lid to store ashes until they’re completely cold.
4. Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Wood stoves produce carbon monoxide, an odorless and dangerous gas. Install a reliable CO detector and smoke detector near your stove for safety.
đź‘Ť Highly Recommended Accessories
While not strictly essential, these accessories greatly enhance stove performance, reduce maintenance, and improve comfort.
5. Firewood Moisture Meter
Burning wet wood results in poor efficiency and high creosote buildup. A moisture meter helps ensure your firewood is seasoned properly (ideally below 20% moisture content).
6. Stove Fan (Ecofan)
An ecofan sits on top of your stove and uses heat to power itself, circulating warm air around the room more effectively. It helps heat your space more evenly without needing electricity.
7. Log Holder or Firewood Rack
Having a log holder near your stove keeps firewood neat, dry, and accessible. It also adds a rustic, cozy feel to your space.
8. Glass Cleaner for Stove Doors
If your stove has a glass window, soot and creosote can obscure your fire view. A dedicated stove glass cleaner helps maintain a clear, cozy firelight glow.
đź’ˇ Optional but Useful Add-Ons
These aren’t necessary for everyone but can make your wood stove experience more enjoyable and efficient.
9. Log Splitter
Great for preparing perfect pieces of logs quickly and safely. Especially useful if you heat primarily with wood.
10. Hearth Rug
Adds both safety and style. A fire-resistant hearth rug protects the floor from stray embers and sparks while enhancing your room’s aesthetic.
11. Cast Iron Steamer or Humidifier
Wood stoves can dry out indoor air. A steamer or kettle placed on the stove adds moisture back into the air and often comes in decorative styles.
12. Heat-Resistant Glass or Magnetic Stove Tool Set
These tools let you safely adjust logs, open/close dampers, and clean your stove without damage. Some are magnetic and can be stored right on the stove’s side.
13. Ash Vacuum Cleaner
Keeping your wood stove clean is critical for both safety and performance—and a dedicated ash vacuum makes this job cleaner, faster, and safer than using a regular vacuum or shovel.
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right wood stove accessories can transform your heating experience from basic to exceptional. Safety gear, maintenance tools, and comfort-enhancing upgrades help you burn cleaner, safer, and more efficiently. Whether you’re outfitting a new stove or enhancing an existing setup, start with the essentials and expand based on your usage and space.
Be sure to check out our curated guides and product recommendations here at PickMyStove.com—we help you find not only the perfect stove, but everything you need to make the most of it.