The Swiss burning method
- label Accessories
- calendar_month 11, May, 2025
- account_box Written by Giant Flames
Lighting like a Swiss: the smart method for every fire
Did you know that the Swiss are not only good at watches and chocolate, but also at fire making? The Swiss method, also called ‘top-down lighting’, is a smart, efficient way to light your fireplace or stove. With less smoke, cleaner combustion and less fuss. Giant Flames shows you how it works and which products you need.
What is the Swiss method?
Instead of placing the kindling at the bottom as with the classic method, with the Swiss method you build from large to small. At the bottom you place the largest pieces of wood, above that smaller logs, then kindling, and on top you place a few firelighters or fire wool, then light with a match or gas lighter. You light from the top, and the fire naturally draws downwards.
Why does this work? The fire gets plenty of oxygen immediately, burns evenly downwards, and produces much less smoke. Ideal for your chimney and your lungs.
How to light like a pro
Step by step:
- Place your firewood at the bottom, such as the kiln-dried birch or oak logs from Giant Flames. These logs are perfectly dried for clean combustion.
- Start stacking: place a layer of kindling on top. Arrange it loosely, so the oxygen can do its work properly.
- Top it off with firelighters, for example the natural brown blocks. These contain NO paraffin, but are soaked in natural oils, safe for indoors and outdoors.
- Lighting: light the top firelighters with a long match or gas lighter, and let the fire calmly find its way downwards.
Why choose Giant Flames?
Giant Flames stands for convenience, reliability and fire enjoyment. Our firelighting products are sustainable and effective – you only need a little. And our firewood is kiln-dried to the core: you notice it in how easily it burns and how little smoke it produces.
Whether you’re planning a cosy evening by the stove or a pleasant fire in the garden, with the Swiss method and Giant Flames products you turn every fire into a small Swiss masterpiece.
Fire starts here, but from the top.
