A chiminea is the perfect type of outdoor fireplace – great for warming up your patio without the unbearable fire pit smoke. However, there are so many different types of chimineas for your outdoor space, it can be hard to find one for you. Therefore, follow along for the best chimineas so you can amp up your outdoor heating year-round!
Best Overall: Sunnydaze
Best Wood Burning Chiminea – Bali Outdoors
For Cast Aluminum: The Blue Rooster
Best Clay Chiminea: The Lakeside Collection
For Cast-Iron Construction: Kramer Cast Iron
Best for Budget: Deckmate Sonora
Table of Contents
What is a chiminea?
I know you’ve heard of outdoor fire pits and patio heaters, but have you ever heard of an outdoor chiminea? If you haven’t, let us tell you what it actually is! A chiminea is a hand-decorated terracotta outdoor fireplace. Traditionally, they were made out of clay, but these days there are options such as cast iron chimineas, steel chimineas, and so much more!
Essentially, they are extremely similar to a wood-burning stove. However, these heavy-duty fire pits are contained, so smoke isn’t going to go every which way or stink up your clothes.
Is a chiminea better than a fire pit?
So, chiminea or a traditional fire pit? There isn’t a right answer – it really depends on your needs. Let’s talk about some of the pros and cons of each. If you’re looking for a fire pit, check out our article on the Best Fire Pit Ideas right here.
Firstly, a chiminea is a much safer option that a fire pit. The airflow is great. Flames are directed up and therefore they offer a much more controlled burn. I know we’ve all been in that situation around a fire when an ember flies into your sweater and burns a hole. And no, it’s not very fun.
Secondly, chimineas reach optimal heat in about 15 minutes. After that, you don’t have to stoke the fire or tend to it constantly. With a fire pit, you’re constantly having the keep the fire going, providing kindling over and over again.
Thirdly, chimineas can be placed pretty much anywhere that you have space for it. With a fire pit, there are specific areas that you can place it due to size and accessibility. A chiminea is freestanding, which is really convenient.
Lastly, if you’re leaning more towards a fire pit – they do have their own pros. They offer more overall heat than a chiminea. Additionally, they offer all-around heat whereas a chiminea only protrudes heat out of one side.
How long do clay chimineas last?
It depends on the quality of the clay chiminea you buy. However, experts say that a clay chiminea will last you at least five years, if not longer. It doesn’t matter how often you’re using it, these babies are durable!
Are chimineas good for cooking?
Another benefit to a chiminea is that you can use them for all your cooking needs! Whether you’re thinking of cookin’ up some BBQ ribs or a lasagna casserole – an outdoor chiminea is a great place to do it!
Moreover, pizza, bread, and pies are all great foods to cook in this modern design.
What are the benefits of a chiminea?
- High-quality and durable – they’ll last for ages
- A modern chiminea is a great addition to your backyard style (a total focal point)
- Great airflow – forget smoke in your fast constantly
- Provides heat for guests while also can be used as a cooking resource
- Safer than a fire pit
Which is the best chiminea?
Well, let’s take a look at the best outdoor chimineas – whether you’re wanting to have a small fire or get to cookin’ some pizzas! Therefore, our buying guide is ready for you below!
Best Overall: Sunnydaze
This steel chiminea is perfect for the patio, yard, or other outdoor entertaining space. Moreover, it has an antique bronze finish, which is really unique and provides an antique look. Plus, this durable, steel construction product has a 1-year warranty so you can feel at ease when burning wood!
Best Wood Burning Chiminea – Bali Outdoors
Designed to funnel smoke up and away from guests, this product will allow you to wave goodbye to smoke-stung eyes! Additionally, it has round wire mesh screening so you have a 360-degree view of the fire. Plus, it’s super durable!
For Cast Aluminum: The Blue Rooster
Bring the campfire to your backyard with this easy to clean, high temperature fire! It’s built with durable cast iron aluminum and will totally complete your backyard ambiance. Moreover, it comes with a carbon stainless steel screen AND wood tool!
Best Clay Chiminea: The Lakeside Collection
Whether you use it to burn a fire or as a decorative accent on your patio, this clay product screams winter in Arizona. It’s fairly small, great for tight spaces. Moreover, it features a metal stand and is sure to last a long time!
For Cast-Iron Construction: Kramer Cast Iron
This product features a sliding door for easy log access, a removable ashtray for easy cleaning….plus, a charcoal grid and fire poker are included! Moreover, it has a rain lid (although it does not feature a chiminea cover). Seriously – a great option for all things flammable right here!
Best for Budget: Deckmate Sonora
Featuring designer embossed cast-iron construction, this product is the real deal! It has a log grate and fire tool included – perfect for any outdoor space. Wait, did I mention it also has a high temperature paint finish!?
In conclusion…
So, did you find the perfect product for your outdoor space? I sure hope so!