Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

The solo stove bonfire 2.0 fire pit is a double-walled, smokeless wood-burning unit designed to produce a hotter, cleaner flame with less smoke than an open ring. This guide walks you through what the bonfire 2.0 is built to do, how to place and set it up, how to light and manage a fire safely, how to clean it, and what to consider before you buy one for your backyard.

What the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Is Designed to Do

The Bonfire 2.0 uses an airflow design in which air is drawn through vents at the base, travels up between the inner and outer walls, and is pushed into the fire through holes near the top. Manufacturers describe this as a secondary combustion system: the air heats before it reaches the flame, and the smoke given off by burning wood is burned again. The result is a fire that produces less smoke than a standard open pit, though it is not truly smoke-free, and smoke direction still depends on wind, wood moisture and how the fire is built.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Solo Stove Ranger Fire Pit: 6 Best Options for Backyard Use in 2026.

Before you commit to any model, it helps to understand its size and purpose. The Bonfire 2.0 is sized for a group gathering around it rather than a full-scale bonfire, so plan your seating and your wood supply around a moderate fire rather than a large one.

Step 1: Choose and Prepare the Location

Placement matters more than most people expect. A good spot is flat, level, and far from anything that can catch fire or be damaged by heat. Many manufacturers specify a clearance from structures, fences, overhanging branches and combustible furniture. Check the manual for the exact distances for your model, and then add a margin.

Surface Requirements

Set the fire pit on a non-combustible surface. Good options include a concrete slab, a paver patio built on a compacted base, or a gravel pad. Avoid placing it directly on a wooden deck, dry grass or mulch. If you have a wood deck, a heat-resistant mat or a non-combustible base plate under the unit can help, but confirm that the product is rated for the purpose.

Wind and Smoke Direction

Watch which way the wind blows during the evening. Position the pit so that prevailing breezes carry smoke away from seating and neighboring windows. Even a smokeless design will send some smoke wherever the wind pushes it.

Step 2: Gather the Tools and Supplies You Need

Having everything ready before you light the fire keeps the process calm and reduces the chance of rushing. Use this checklist:

  • Dry, seasoned hardwood split into small pieces (roughly 1 to 2 inches thick for kindling and 2 to 4 inches for fuel)
  • Natural fire starters or tinder such as dry leaves, paper or wood shavings
  • A long-handled lighter or long matches
  • Heat-resistant gloves
  • A metal poker or tongs for adjusting logs
  • A metal bucket of water or a garden hose within reach
  • A fire extinguisher rated for wood fires, kept nearby
  • A metal ash container with a lid

Avoid lighter fluid, gasoline, or any accelerant. Liquid fire starters can flare up unpredictably and are a common cause of backyard burn injuries.

Step 3: Build and Light the Fire

A well-built fire burns cleaner and is easier to control. Here is a reliable sequence for the Bonfire 2.0:

  1. Clear any debris from the bottom of the pit and confirm the base vents are open and unobstructed.
  2. Place a small bundle of tinder in the center, with a few handfuls of kindling stacked loosely over it in a teepee or crosshatch shape.
  3. Light the tinder from the bottom, near the vents, if your model allows, so air can feed the flame as it rises.
  4. Once the kindling catches and the flame is steady, add a few small split logs. Leave space between pieces so air can move through.
  5. Add larger pieces only after the fire is established. Stop adding fuel when the flame reaches a steady, manageable height.

Managing Airflow

Airflow controls heat and smoke. Open vents to feed a hotter, cleaner burn. If the fire smolders and smokes heavily, add a bit more dry kindling rather than piling on large logs, which can smother the flame. Burn only wood. Treated lumber, painted wood, plywood, trash and pressure-treated scraps release harmful chemicals.

Monitoring the Fire

Never leave a fire unattended, and keep children and pets at a safe distance. The outer walls of a fire pit can stay hot long after the flames die down, so treat the unit as hot for at least an hour after extinguishing.

Step 4: Put the Fire Out Properly

Let the fire burn down to embers rather than shutting it off abruptly. Spread the coals gently with a poker, then pour water slowly over them until steam stops and the ash feels cool. Stir the ash and add more water if needed. Store the ash in a metal container with a lid, and keep that container away from the house and any combustible materials until it is fully cold, which can take several days.

Step 5: Clean and Maintain the Bonfire 2.0

Routine cleaning extends the life of the unit and keeps airflow working as designed. After each use, remove loose ash once the pit is cold. Check the vents and the air holes near the top for blockage from ash, debris or insects. Use a soft brush or a shop vacuum with a non-metal nozzle. Wipe the exterior with mild soap and water.

Stainless steel models can develop discoloration from heat, which is normal and cosmetic. Avoid abrasive pads that scratch the finish. For any questions about finishes or replacement parts, contact the manufacturer and follow their care instructions.

Factors to Consider Before You Buy

If you are still deciding whether the Bonfire 2.0 fits your space and habits, compare it against the following factors. The table gives a quick overview of what to check.

Factor What to Look For Why It Matters
Size Diameter and height in the spec sheet Determines how many people can sit comfortably and how much room you need
Fuel type Wood-burning design Affects smoke behavior, ash volume and the ongoing supply of firewood you will need
Materials Stainless steel or other durable metal Influences longevity, rust resistance and how the unit ages outdoors
Clearance Manufacturer-specified distances Protects structures, furniture and plants from heat exposure
Portability Weight and whether a carry bag or handles are included Matters if you plan to move it between patio, yard or camping trips
Accessories Grate, cover, carry bag or stand Extra accessories can affect how you cook over the fire or store the unit

If you are weighing whether a wood-burning design suits your yard better than a gas option, read the comparisons in Gas Fire Pit for Outside: 7 Best Picks Compared in 2026 and Fire Pit with Propane: 7 Best Models for Backyards in 2026. Those articles explain the trade-offs in setup, maintenance and fuel availability.

Common Mistakes

  • Placing the pit too close to structures or overhanging branches. Measure the clearances in the manual, then add extra space.
  • Using the wrong fuel. Treated wood, painted wood and trash produce toxic smoke and can damage the finish.
  • Smothering the fire. Piling on large logs before the fire is established cuts airflow and creates heavy smoke.
  • Blocking the vents. Ash buildup or leaves in the base vents reduce draft and make the fire harder to control.
  • Assuming it stays cool. The walls remain hot long after the fire is out. Keep children and pets away until the unit is fully cool.
  • Dumping hot ash in a plastic bin. Ash can stay hot for days. Use a metal container with a lid.

Tips for Better Results

These items support safe, comfortable use of a wood-burning pit. Choose versions rated for your specific model and the heat it produces.

  • Heat-resistant fire pit gloves: Protect your hands when adding wood or adjusting logs, since the rim and interior can stay hot. View on Amazon
  • Metal fire poker: Lets you rearrange logs and spread embers without leaning over the flame. View on Amazon
  • Metal ash bucket with lid: Holds cooled ash safely until it can be disposed of. View on Amazon
  • Fire pit cover: Keeps rain, leaves and debris out of the vents between uses. View on Amazon

FAQ

Is the solo stove bonfire 2.0 fire pit truly smokeless?

No. It is designed to produce less smoke than a standard open pit by burning smoke a second time, but it still produces some smoke, especially when wood is damp or airflow is restricted. Wind direction also affects how much smoke reaches your seating area.

Can I use it on a wood deck?

Check the manufacturer’s clearance and surface instructions first. Many owners place the unit on a non-combustible base such as pavers, concrete or a heat-rated mat. Placing it directly on untreated wood decking is generally discouraged.

What type of wood should I burn?

Dry, seasoned hardwood such as oak, maple or ash is a common choice because it burns hotter and produces less smoke than softwood. Avoid treated lumber, painted wood, plywood and trash.

Can I cook food over the Bonfire 2.0?

Some owners use a compatible cooking grate, but confirm that the accessory is approved for your model. Cook over the coals rather than open flames, and follow food-safety guidelines.

How long should I wait before touching the pit after the fire is out?

Wait until the walls and ash are fully cool, which can take at least an hour and sometimes longer. Test the surface with the back of your hand before handling it, and wear heat-resistant gloves when in doubt.

How do I clean the vents?

Once the unit is cold, use a soft brush or a shop vacuum to remove ash and debris from the base vents and the upper air holes. Clear blockages before each use to maintain proper airflow.

Is it safe to leave the fire pit outside in the rain?

A cover helps protect the finish and keeps water and debris out of the vents. Store the unit in a dry location when it is not in use for long periods. Consult the manufacturer’s care guidance for your specific finish.

Should I consult a professional before installing a fire pit near my home?

Yes, especially if you plan to build a permanent base, run gas lines or place the unit near a structure. Local fire codes and homeowner association rules vary, and a qualified contractor or your local fire department can advise you on requirements.

Conclusion

The solo stove bonfire 2.0 fire pit rewards careful setup, dry fuel and steady airflow management. Choose a level, non-combustible location with the clearances listed in the manual, build the fire from small pieces, and put it out thoroughly with water and a sealed ash container. With routine cleaning and sensible habits, it can serve as a reliable centerpiece for backyard gatherings for years.

Ready to choose one?

Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backyard living & play guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.