Lighting a fire pit shouldn’t feel like a challenge. Whether you're preparing for a quiet evening outdoors or entertaining guests, a well-built fire creates warmth, atmosphere, and a relaxing focal point.
To help you get the perfect flame every time, we’ve put together a clear, straightforward guide on how to light your Nicoman fire pit safely and effectively.
1. Start With a Safe and Clean Setup
Before striking a match, take a moment to prepare the area. A well-prepared fire pit not only lights more easily but also burns better.
Check your surroundings
Make sure your fire pit is positioned:
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On a flat and steady surface
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Away from anything that might catch fire
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In an open, well-ventilated outdoor space
Remove loose leaves, paper, and anything that could blow into the fire unexpectedly.
Have safety equipment on hand
Keep either water, a bucket of sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby.
You may never need them, but it’s good practice to stay prepared.
2. Gather the Right Materials
A successful fire starts with the correct fuel. You will need three basic elements:
Tinder
This is the first thing that ignites.
Good options include:
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Wood shavings
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Dry paper
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Twisted cardboard strips
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Natural firelighters
Kindling
Small sticks or thin-cut pieces of wood help turn your small flame into a growing fire.
Logs
Use dry, seasoned wood.
Wet or freshly cut wood produces smoke and resists burning.
3. Build a Structure That Encourages Airflow
Rather than piling everything into a heap, take a moment to shape the materials so the fire can breathe.
How to arrange the wood
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Place a small bundle of tinder in the centre of the fire pit.
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Lay your kindling around or over the tinder in a loose cone or criss-cross pattern.
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Keep gaps between pieces — airflow is essential.
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Set your larger logs to the side for later, ready to be added once the flame becomes established.
This structure helps the flame climb upward naturally, producing a strong, steady burn.
4. Light the Tinder and Let the Fire Build Slowly
When you’re ready to light the fire:
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Use a long match or long lighter to keep your hands safely away.
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Ignite the tinder in two or three places.
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Allow the flame to spread into the kindling on its own.
Avoid accelerants like lighter fluid or petrol — they are unsafe and can damage your fire pit as well as the surrounding area.
Once the kindling is burning well, begin adding your larger logs one at a time.
Gradual building results in a cleaner, longer-lasting fire.
5. Maintain the Fire as It Burns
A good fire doesn't need constant attention, but a little care helps it burn at its best.
Keep your fire steady by:
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Adding logs slowly
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Avoiding overcrowding (logs need room for air circulation)
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Turning logs occasionally with a fire tool
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Keeping an eye on the flame at all times
A well-kept fire gives off more heat, less smoke, and lasts longer.
6. Extinguish the Fire Properly When You're Finished
When it’s time to put the fire out:
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Sprinkle water slowly over the embers — don’t pour it all at once.
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Stir the ashes to expose hot spots.
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Add more water or sand until everything is completely cool.
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Only dispose of ashes once they are fully cold.
Taking your time ensures your fire is fully extinguished and safe.
Final Thoughts
Lighting a fire pit doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few simple steps — safe setup, the right materials, careful stacking, and gradual building — you can enjoy a warm, inviting fire any time.
Your Nicoman Fire Pit is designed for reliable performance and long-lasting use, and with this guide, you’ll be able to light it confidently whenever the mood strikes.
