Preferred to Burn. Hardwoods that have seasoned at least 6 months. Properly seasoned wood looks a little darker than unseasoned wood, and has easily visible cracks in the grain. Maple, oak, birch, or ash are the best hardwoods to burn in your fireplace or stove. If you use manufactured woods, use only those made from 100% compressed sawdust with no chemical additives. Kindling should always consist of real wood, natural or organic fire starters, or newspaper without colored ink.