Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit: Setup, Safe Use and Buying Tips

By Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

A solo stove bonfire 2.0 smokeless fire pit is a double-walled steel fire pit designed to burn wood with less visible smoke than a traditional open pit. In this guide, you will learn how to choose a safe spot, set up the pit on level ground, build and maintain a clean-burning fire, and avoid the mistakes that cause most problems. The steps apply to backyard use on patios, lawns and decks where local rules allow open fires.

What Makes the Bonfire 2.0 Different

The Bonfire 2.0 uses a double-wall design with a gap between the outer and inner walls. Air is drawn in through vents at the bottom and pushed up through holes near the top of the inner wall. The result is a secondary burn that consumes much of the smoke before it leaves the pit. Manufacturers describe this as a smokeless design, though it is more accurate to say it produces noticeably less smoke than an open fire, not zero smoke. Wind direction, fuel moisture and how you load the pit all affect the result.

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

Because the airflow depends on a steady draft, the pit works best with dry, seasoned hardwood and a small, hot fire rather than a large, smoldering one. Owners often report that a smaller starter fire that gets hot quickly produces the cleanest smoke reduction.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Placement matters more than most people expect. Before you light anything, check the clearances listed in the manufacturer’s manual and the rules that apply where you live. Many municipalities regulate backyard fires, and some homeowner associations restrict them entirely. If you are unsure, check with your local fire department.

• Keep the pit at least 10 feet from the house, deck railings, fences, sheds and any overhanging branches. Many manufacturers specify this minimum, and some recommend more.
• Place it on a flat, non-combustible surface such as pavers, gravel, concrete or a fire-resistant pad. Avoid placing it directly on wood decking or dry grass.
• Stay upwind of seating areas. Position the pit so typical breezes carry smoke away from the chairs.
• Keep a water source, a garden hose or a bucket of sand within easy reach.

Step 2: Set Up the Pit

Assemble the pit on level ground. An uneven base can cause the stand or the upper ring to shift once the metal heats and expands. Check that the air intake vents at the base are unobstructed by leaves, dirt or debris, since blocked vents reduce airflow and increase smoke.

Setup checklist

• Level, non-combustible base with clear space on all sides
• Vents at the bottom clear of debris
• Upper ring seated evenly on the lower body
• Stand or legs fully extended and stable
• Required clearances measured and marked

Step 3: Choose and Prepare Your Fuel

Wood quality affects both smoke and heat output more than almost any other factor. Dry, seasoned hardwood such as oak, hickory or maple burns hotter and cleaner than softwoods. Softwoods like pine produce more sap, sparks and smoke.

Split your wood into pieces roughly 2 to 4 inches thick. Smaller pieces catch quickly and keep the fire hot, while large logs can smolder and produce heavier smoke.

Step 4: Build and Light a Clean Fire

A tidy, well-built fire is the single biggest factor in keeping smoke down. Stack the wood loosely so air can move between the pieces, rather than packing it tightly.

1. Place a small handful of tinder, such as dry paper or fatwood, in the center of the pit floor.
2. Arrange several small kindling sticks in a teepee or crisscross pattern over the tinder.
3. Light the tinder from the bottom and leave the top vents open.
4. Once the kindling is burning well, add two or three larger split pieces.
5. Add more wood gradually to keep a hot, bright fire rather than a large, smoky one.

Avoid lighter fluid and gasoline. These fuels can flare up, leave residue that smokes, and create serious burn hazards. Use a fire starter designed for outdoor fires or simple dry kindling instead.

Step 5: Manage the Fire Safely

Once the fire is going, keep it under control. Never leave it unattended, and keep children and pets at a safe distance. Use a long-handled poker or tongs to adjust logs rather than reaching in. Sparks can travel, so watch wind conditions and extinguish the fire if gusts increase.

When you are finished, let the fire burn down to ash and then soak the ashes thoroughly with water, stirring to make sure no embers remain. Ashes can stay hot for many hours. Store the cooled ash in a metal container with a lid, away from the house and any combustible materials.

Step 6: Care for the Pit Between Uses

Routine care extends the life of the pit and keeps its airflow working. Let the pit cool completely before cleaning. Remove ash from the bottom and clear the vents. Check for rust, especially on welds and the interior, and wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth. Cover the pit when not in use to limit moisture and debris.

Consult the manufacturer’s manual for any specific cleaning or finish recommendations, as coatings and materials vary by model.

Common Mistakes

• Burning wet or green wood. This produces the heaviest smoke and can clog the airflow path.
• Overloading the pit. A huge pile of wood smolders instead of burning hot. Add fuel in small amounts.
• Blocking the vents. Leaves and ash buildup at the base starve the fire of oxygen.
• Setting up too close to structures. Measure clearances before the first fire, not after.
• Using accelerants. Lighter fluid and gasoline are dangerous and smoky.
• Dumping hot ash in the trash or on the lawn. Always soak ash completely and store it safely.
• Assuming it is smoke-free. Reduced smoke is still smoke. Keep neighbors and seating areas in mind.

Tips for Better Performance

• Preheat the pit with a small fire before adding larger logs to encourage a clean burn.
• Rotate logs occasionally to expose fresh surfaces to airflow.
• Store firewood off the ground and under cover so it stays dry.
• Keep a spare set of tools, such as a poker and tongs, within reach.
• Choose a calm evening for the fire, as wind can push smoke into seating areas and carry sparks.

Recommended gear

A few accessories make the Bonfire 2.0 easier and safer to use. Choose items sized and rated for outdoor fire use.

• Long-handled fire poker: Lets you adjust logs without leaning over the flames. View on Amazon
• Fire-resistant gloves: Protect your hands when loading wood and moving hot pieces. View on Amazon
• Fire pit cover: Keeps rain, debris and moisture out of the pit between uses. View on Amazon
• Metal ash bucket with lid: Provides a safe place to store cooled ash away from the house. View on Amazon

For more background on the Solo Stove line and how it compares with other designs, see Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Fire Pit: Setup, Safe Use and Buying Tips and Solo Stove Fire Pit Guide: Setup, Safe Use and Care Tips. If you are weighing other smokeless designs, Best Smokeless Fire Pits for the Backyard: 5 Compared covers several alternatives. Readers planning a seating area around the pit may also find Outdoor Patio Seating with Fire Pit: 7 Layouts for Family Backyards useful.

FAQ

Is a solo stove bonfire 2.0 smokeless fire pit completely smoke free?

No. The double-wall design burns much of the smoke, so the fire produces noticeably less smoke than an open pit. Wind, wood moisture and how the fire is built all affect how much smoke you see.

How far should the pit be from my house?

Many manufacturers recommend at least 10 feet from structures, fences and overhanging branches. Check the manual for the specific clearance for your model and follow any local rules, which may be stricter.

Can I put the pit on a wooden deck?

It is generally not recommended. Place the pit on a non-combustible surface such as pavers, concrete or gravel, and confirm the clearance requirements in the manual.

What type of wood should I burn?

Seasoned hardwood such as oak, hickory or maple is the best choice. Avoid green or wet wood, and never burn treated, painted or glued wood.

Can I use lighter fluid to start the fire?

Avoid it. Lighter fluid and gasoline can flare up dangerously and create excess smoke. Use dry kindling or a fire starter designed for outdoor use.

How do I put out the fire safely?

Let the fire burn down, then soak the ashes thoroughly with water and stir to ensure no embers remain. Ashes can stay hot for hours, so store them in a metal container with a lid.

How do I keep the pit from rusting?

Clean out ash after each use, let the pit dry, and cover it when not in use. Check the manufacturer’s care guidance for any model-specific recommendations.

Can children use the fire pit?

Children should always be supervised and kept at a safe distance from the flames. Adults should handle wood placement, adjustments and cleanup.

Conclusion

A solo stove bonfire 2.0 smokeless fire pit works well when you pick a safe, level spot, burn dry hardwood in a small, hot fire, and keep the vents clear. Measure clearances before the first fire and soak the ashes completely when you finish. Follow the manufacturer’s manual and local regulations, and the pit will give your backyard a reliable, lower-smoke fire for years of evenings outside.

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.