In this article, we have researched and tested various clay chimineas to identify the best options on the market. Our top pick for the best clay chiminea is the Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Terracotta.
Clay chimineas have been a popular addition to outdoor spaces for centuries. These outdoor fireplaces are not only functional but also add a touch of rustic charm to any backyard.
Chimineas come in various materials, including cast iron, steel, and clay. However, clay chimineas are the most traditional and popular choice among homeowners.
Clay chimineas are made of natural clay that is molded into a traditional shape and then fired in a kiln. The clay material provides excellent insulation, which means that the fire burns hotter and for more extended periods.
The chimney design also ensures that the smoke is directed away from the user, making it a safer option than traditional fire pits.
When looking for the best clay chiminea, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the size of the chiminea, which should be based on the size of your outdoor space. The second is the quality of the clay used, which will impact the durability and longevity of the chiminea.
Finally, the design of the chiminea is also an essential factor to consider, as it should complement your outdoor decor.
By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of what to look for in a clay chiminea and which ones are worth investing in.
Best Clay Chimineas
Looking for a cozy addition to your outdoor space? A clay chiminea might be just what you need. These traditional outdoor fireplaces have been used for centuries in Mexico and other parts of Central America, and they’re becoming increasingly popular in the US as well.
Not only do they add warmth and ambiance to your backyard or patio, but they also make a stylish statement.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the best clay chimineas on the market, so you can find the perfect one for your home.
1. Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Terracotta – Clay Chimineas with Chimney Rain Lids and Solid Metal Stands – Sunface Terracotta Chimenea – Fire Pit Chimnea 16 x 16 x 32-inch
If you’re looking for a medium-sized clay chiminea that doubles as a decorative piece, the Wiosi Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Terracotta is a great option.
Pros
- The medium size of the chiminea makes it easy to fit in your backyard
- The unique design adds a rustic touch to your outdoor space
- The chiminea is made of long-lasting clay material that can withstand the test of time
Cons
- The metal stand included with the chiminea is not the sturdiest
- The chiminea does not come with a cover, so it must be stored properly during cold weather
- Some customers have reported receiving damaged chimineas during shipping
This chiminea is perfect for those who want to add a special mood and vibe to their outdoor space. Its unique design and long-lasting materials make it a great investment.
The medium size of the chiminea is perfect for those who want a smaller chiminea that still has enough space to keep the fire going.
The only downside to this chiminea is that the metal stand is not the sturdiest, so some customers may need to find a more stable stand. Additionally, the chiminea does not come with a cover, so it must be stored properly during cold weather to prevent any damage.
Overall, the Wiosi Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Terracotta is a great option for those who want a medium-sized chiminea that doubles as a decorative piece. Its unique design and long-lasting materials make it a must-have for any outdoor space.
2. Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Grey
Looking for a stylish and practical chiminea for your backyard? The Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Grey by Wiosi is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Medium size that can easily fit in your backyard
- Unique and rustic design that adds a lovely touch to any place
- Multipurpose design that can be used for both decoration and practical purposes
Cons
- May be too small for larger fires
- Color may fade over time
- Stand may arrive broken or damaged
If you’re looking for a medium-sized chiminea that can fit in your backyard without taking up too much space, the Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Grey is a great option.
Its unique and rustic design adds a lovely touch to any place, making it a great decorative element for your outdoor space. Plus, its multipurpose design means that it can be used for both decoration and practical purposes.
However, keep in mind that this chiminea may be too small for larger fires. Additionally, the color may fade over time, leaving behind patches of faded grey or the original clay. Finally, some customers have reported that the stand may arrive broken or damaged.
Overall, the Medium Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace Grey is a great choice for those looking for a stylish and practical chiminea for their backyard.
3. BALI OUTDOORS Wood Burning Chimenea
This clay chiminea is a great addition to any backyard, providing warmth and an inviting atmosphere for gatherings with friends and family.
Pros
- The sturdy legs ensure stability and secure placement, making it durable and long-lasting.
- The chiminea is designed to funnel smoke up and away from guests, preventing smoke-stung eyes.
- The round wire mesh screening design allows for a 360-degree view of the fire, providing a cozy ambiance for all.
Cons
- The assembly process may be a bit challenging for some users.
- The metal ashtray may rust over time.
- The open-screen design may make it difficult to keep the fire lit on windy days.
This BALI OUTDOORS Wood Burning Chimenea is a great investment for those looking to add warmth and ambiance to their outdoor space. Its sturdy legs ensure stability and secure placement, making it durable and long-lasting.
The chiminea is designed to funnel smoke up and away from guests, preventing smoke-stung eyes. The round wire mesh screening design allows for a 360-degree view of the fire, providing a cozy ambiance for all.
However, the assembly process may be a bit challenging for some users, and the metal ashtray may rust over time. Additionally, the open screen design may make it difficult to keep the fire lit on windy days.
Overall, this BALI OUTDOORS Wood Burning Chimenea is a great option for those looking for a stylish and functional addition to their outdoor space.
4. Vintiquewise Outdoor Clay Chiminea Fireplace
If you’re looking for a stylish and functional outdoor fireplace, the Vintiquewise Outdoor Clay Chiminea Fireplace is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The sun design and antique finish give the fireplace a unique and attractive appearance that will add a touch of vintage charm to your outdoor space.
- The clay material absorbs heat and radiates it outwards, making it an excellent choice for outdoor fire pits.
- You can use it to grill food, roast marshmallows, or simply enjoy a warm and inviting fire with friends and family.
Cons
- The fireplace is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger gatherings or parties.
- The clay material can be fragile, so you’ll need to handle it with care to avoid cracking or breaking.
- The stand is made of metal, which may rust over time if not properly cared for.
In terms of performance, the Vintiquewise Outdoor Clay Chiminea Fireplace does an excellent job of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for outdoor gatherings.
The clay material absorbs heat and radiates it outwards, creating a cozy and comfortable environment for you and your guests. Additionally, the sun design and antique finish make it a stylish and attractive addition to any outdoor space.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. The fireplace is relatively small, so it may not be suitable for larger gatherings or parties. Additionally, the clay material can be fragile, so you’ll need to handle it with care to avoid cracking or breaking.
Finally, the stand is made of metal, which may rust over time if not properly cared for.
Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and functional outdoor fireplace that can create a warm and inviting atmosphere for outdoor gatherings, the Vintiquewise Outdoor Clay Chiminea Fireplace is definitely worth considering.
Just be sure to handle it with care and keep it properly maintained to ensure that it lasts for years to come.
5. RediFlame Chiminea Kit
If you are looking for a portable and reusable chiminea, the RediFlame Chiminea Kit is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The kit contains everything needed to use the chiminea, including two all-natural insect-repellent logs and a sample package of three red-light fire starters.
- The chiminea is made of handmade clay, which gives it a unique and rustic look.
- The kit comes with an eight-essential oil blend that not only repels insects but also adds a pleasant aroma to the surrounding area.
Cons
- The chiminea is small and can only hold small pieces of wood, making it unsuitable for larger gatherings.
- The clay material is fragile and can easily break if not handled with care.
- The kit is relatively expensive compared to other chiminea options on the market.
The RediFlame Chiminea Kit is an excellent choice for those looking for a portable and reusable chiminea. The kit contains everything needed to use the chiminea, including two all-natural insect-repellent logs and a sample package of three red-light fire starters.
The handmade clay material gives it a unique and rustic look, while the eight essential oil blend repels insects and adds a pleasant aroma to the surrounding area.
However, the chiminea is relatively small and can only hold small pieces of wood, making it unsuitable for larger gatherings.
Additionally, the clay material is fragile and can easily break if not handled with care. Finally, the kit is relatively expensive compared to other chiminea options on the market.
Overall, if you are willing to invest in a high-quality and portable chiminea, the RediFlame Chiminea Kit is a great option to consider.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best clay chiminea, there are a few things to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind before making a purchase:
Material
The first thing to consider is the material of the chiminea. Clay is a popular choice, but there are also cast iron, steel, and copper options available. Clay chimineas are great for a traditional look and feel, but they can be fragile and require more maintenance than other materials.
Size
Another important factor to consider is the size of the chiminea. Make sure to measure your outdoor space to determine the appropriate size for your needs. A smaller chiminea may be suitable for a patio or balcony, while a larger one may be better for a backyard or garden.
Design
The design of the chiminea is also an important consideration. Some chimineas have intricate designs and patterns, while others have a more simple and classic look. Choose a design that complements your outdoor space and personal style.
Functionality
Consider the functionality of the chiminea as well.
Some chimineas come with grills and cooking surfaces, making them great for outdoor cooking and entertaining (here are the best fire pit cooking grates). Others may have a built-in rain cap or spark guard for added safety and protection.
Price
Lastly, consider the price of the chiminea. Clay chimineas can range in price from under $100 to over $500, depending on the size, design, and features. Set a budget and choose a chiminea that fits your needs and price range.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best clay chiminea for your outdoor space and enjoy the warmth and ambiance it provides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors determine the quality of a chiminea?
The quality of a chiminea depends on several factors, including the material it is made from, its design, and its construction. A high-quality chiminea should be made from durable materials that can withstand high temperatures and weather conditions.
It should also have a sturdy and well-constructed base to prevent it from tipping over. Additionally, a well-designed chiminea should have a good draft and ventilation system to ensure efficient burning and prevent smoke from escaping.
How can I prevent my clay chiminea from cracking?
Clay chimineas are prone to cracking, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature.
To prevent cracking, it is recommended to season your clay chiminea before use. This involves gradually increasing the temperature over several uses to allow the clay to cure and harden.
Additionally, it is important to keep your clay chiminea dry and covered when not in use, as exposure to moisture can weaken the clay and cause it to crack.
What are the advantages of a clay chiminea over other materials?
Clay chimineas have several advantages over other materials, including their aesthetic appeal and natural insulation properties.
Clay chimineas are often handcrafted and come in unique and intricate designs, making them a beautiful addition to any backyard. They also retain heat well and can radiate warmth for hours after the fire has died down.
Which is more durable: cast iron or cast aluminum chiminea?
Both cast iron and cast aluminum chimineas are durable and long-lasting, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Cast iron chimineas are heavier and more sturdy, making them less likely to tip over or be affected by strong winds.
However, they are also more prone to rust and require regular maintenance. Cast aluminum chimineas, on the other hand, are lighter and easier to move around, but may not be as sturdy as cast iron and can be more expensive.
What size chiminea is best for a small backyard?
The size of your chiminea will depend on the size of your backyard and your personal preferences.
For a small backyard, a chiminea with a height of 3-4 feet and a diameter of 1-2 feet should be sufficient. However, it is important to make sure that there is enough space around the chiminea for proper ventilation and to prevent fire hazards.
Where can I find high-quality chimineas for purchase?
High-quality chimineas can be found at outdoor and home improvement stores, as well as online retailers. It is important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product that meets your needs.