Buying the best fireplace accessories is the perfect way to create a more authentic look when finalising your fireplace ideas, even if your flames are faux. But, as well as looking good, making sure you have all the kit you need to keep it working efficiently is essential for a warm and toasty winter.
From fireside companions to fans, ash bins to log stores, there's a list of fireplace accessories you need when heating your home using fire.
The good news is, whether your taste is traditional or you prefer a modern look, there's something in our guide on where to buy the best fireplace accessories.
Which fireplace accessories might you need?
So why do experts say we need fireplace accessories when you've already just paid for a new fire?
"When it comes to enjoying your stove or fireplace to its full potential, the right accessories are just as important as the stove itself," advises Jon Butterworth, director at Arada Stoves.
"For a log burner, we always recommend with the basics, a good log basket to keep your fuel dry and accessible and a pair of heatproof gloves. They may seem simple, but they make a big difference in everyday use."
And, as well as accessories, it's worth bearing in mind you may need on occasion to replace some parts too, adds Jon.
"When it comes to looking after your stove, you might need to revive its appearance or replace some of the consumable components. Your stove may not burn as efficiently as it once did, for example, if your stove door seal is no longer intact," he warns.
"Broken or split seals affect the air-tightness in the fire chamber, which can diminish the rate and quality of the burn and make the initial lighting of the fuel difficult. You should check that your stove door rope is still maintaining a tight seal by doing an easy test. If your stove does not pass the test you can easily replace your door rope seal," advises Jon.
“Also make sure when ordering your stove or fireplace, the manufacturer can include a pot of paint which can be used to paint your stove should you need to touch it up at a later date from potential wear and tear."
Jon Butterworth is Managing Director of Arada Stoves, one of the UK's leading suppliers of log burning stoves and has a wealth of experience in supplying and installing them.
Fireside companions
Fireside companion sets are an essential when it comes to log burning fires. They comprise all the tools you need to keep your fire working and in good condition.
While traditional cast iron designs were once the only option, modern log burner ideas, and modern fireplaces are also now catered for and it's just as easy to get a contemporary fireside companion set to suit your overall decor.
You also don't have to look too far, or spend too much money if you don't want to. Some of our favourites can be found at retailers such as Dunelm, B&Q and Amazon.
A simple black iron 5 piece set that sits neatly on your hearth and contains all the tools you need
A stylish three piece set which includes a coal shovel, brush, poker and curved decorative stand
Perfect for Scandi style log burners, this metal and wooden set contains a shovel, broom and hook
Log baskets and stores
For those of you who have a log burning fireplace, having somewhere close to hand with a stack of logs to keep the fire burning is a must. While outdoor log store ideas can handle the bulk of your firewood, having a plentiful supply indoors is important too.
So, if your log burner doesn't have a built in store, or you haven't included a built in one in your fireplace design, these stylish options are a good alternative instead.
Two log store baskets with handy carrying handles and a rustic wicker look
A sturdy iron bucket with decorative pattern and strong leather carrying handles
A set of three providing you with plenty of storage for logs, kindling and extra long matches for lighting your fire
Cleaning equipment
Messy but unavoidable, being able to clear the ash from your fireplace or log burner is an essential step in your fireplace maintenance.
While your average dustpan and brush will do the trick, it's far better to have a purpose built set designed for use with fires. It's likely to be made from more suitable materials, and will prevent the ash from spreading elsewhere in your home.
A dedicated ash bin is also a great fireplace accessory too, which is why we've included one here.
A handy ash and brush set with built in support and metal finish
A large 30L bin with lid for collecting ash from your fire once it's cleaned
A pair of heat resistant gloves for cleaning out your fire or reloading logs
Guards and heat shields
If your home's inhabitants include small children or pets, you may want to consider some additional safety features around your fireplace in order to protect them.
Fire guards will still allow heat to filter through into your room, while heat shields or hearth protectors can be a good idea if you want to add a layer of heat protection to your walls and or hearth.
As with most fireplace accessories, these items are readily available online, or perhaps even from the retailer where you purchased your fire, with stores such as Direct Stoves offering some items on their website.
An enamel black heat shield to mount behind a log burner. Also available in cream
A three panel fire screen made from iron and mesh which can be angled to suit, while still letting heat through
A double-sided silicone-coated fibreglass mat which can withstand temperatures up to 1000°C, guarding your floors and carpets against sparks and embers
Once you've installed your new fireplace or log burner, be it a freestanding log burner or a more traditional fireplace and hearth, make sure you also follow the expert advice for cleaning log burner glass and keeping a slate hearth clean for a fireplace that glows and works well all winter long.
