What is the best practice for lighting a fire in a fireplace?

Using dry kindling and crumpled newspaper while lighting from the top is recognized as the best practice for starting a fire in a fireplace. This method is effective because it promotes a cleaner and more efficient burn. When you light from the top, the flames and heat travel downward, igniting the kindling and larger logs below as they get sufficiently hot. This approach not only minimizes smoke production but also improves the draft in the chimney, reducing the risk of creosote buildup.

Additionally, using dry kindling and crumpled newspaper ensures that the fire starts quickly and burns efficiently. These materials ignite easily and can provide a consistent flame that helps to catch larger logs on fire more effectively. This contrasts with methods that could potentially create hazardous situations, such as using wet logs, which dampens the fire's intensity and results in more smoke, or lighting with gasoline, which poses significant safety risks. Starting with large logs can also hinder the fire's ability to catch if there is insufficient initial heat from smaller materials. Overall, this method promotes safety, efficiency, and a more enjoyable fire experience.