How to Store Firewood So It Stays Dry and Bug-Free
October 28, 2026 · West East Firewood, Millersport, Ohio
Good firewood can go bad in a wet pile. A few simple habits keep it dry and ready.
Outside: the four rules
- Off the ground. Use a rack, pallets or rails so air flows underneath and ground moisture can’t wick up.
- Covered on top. A roof, log store or tarp over the top only.
- Open at the sides. Wrapping the whole stack in plastic traps moisture and invites mold.
- Away from the house. Keep the main stack a good distance from your walls so insects and rodents don’t move in, and bring in only what you’ll burn in the next few days.
Inside
A small rack by the stove is fine for a few days’ wood. Kiln-dried wood is already pest-free, but don’t store large amounts indoors for long — it can draw moisture from humid air.
Stack it right
- Bark side up on the top row sheds rain.
- Criss-cross the ends to make stable columns.
- First in, first out — burn the oldest wood first.
Useful gear
A 4 ft metal rack keeps a stack neat by the door, and an outdoor log store gives your wood a roof. Ordering locally? Add stacking at checkout and we’ll do it for you.
