3 Best Clay Chimineas for Outdoor Spaces 2024

In this guide to the best clay chimineas for your backyard, patio, or garden, we share our thoughts on clay vs metal chimineas as well as recommend our top picks. Chimineas made from clay offer a much more authentic experience, and if you use them often enough and if you pick one with thick walls, they can last for decades.

When shopping for a clay chiminea, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to think about the size of the chiminea and how much space you have available. You’ll also want to consider the material of the chiminea, as some materials may be more durable or weather-resistant than others. Additionally, you may want to think about any additional features you’d like, such as a built-in grill or a spark screen to prevent embers from escaping.

With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to determine which clay chiminea is the best fit for your needs. To help narrow down your choices, we researched and tested ten different clay chimineas to identify the ones that offer the best combination of style, durability, and functionality.

When it comes to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your outdoor living space, few things can compete with a clay chiminea. These traditional Mexican outdoor fireplaces not only add a touch of charm and character to your backyard, but they also provide a cozy spot to gather with friends and family on chilly evenings.

With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best clay chimineas available today. Whether you’re looking for something small and portable or a large, statement-making piece, we’ve got you covered.

3 Best Clay Chimineas for Outdoor Spaces

Wiosi Small Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace

DIMENSIONS: 11.7 x 12.2 x 19 inches

The Wiosi Small Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace is a great addition to any backyard or patio. Its small size makes it easy to move around, and its unique design adds a touch of rustic charm to any outdoor space.

Not only is it a decorative piece, but it can also be used to burn wood, coal and cook simple foods. In terms of care during the winter, it’s important to properly cover and store it during cold weather to prevent cracking. This doesn’t happen in one year, it happens over time, so if you leave it out for 5-10 years, you may start to see flakes and chips appear. Additionally, its small size may not be suitable for larger gatherings as the man heat is focused towards the small opening at the front.

Its small size makes it perfect for intimate gatherings or small outdoor spaces, while its unique and rustic design adds a special mood and vibe to any night.

VERDICT: If you’re looking for a small and unique chiminea to add a rustic touch to your backyard, the Small Chiminea Outdoor Fireplace by Wiosi is a great option. This handmade clay chiminea is not only a decorative piece but also a practical one that can be used to make small fires and cook simple foods. I love the decorative designs, which turn it into more of a garden feature for 90% of its life when it is not in use. Perfect for couples who want to sit outside on an evening.

You can also get this chiminea in gray clay if you don’t fancy the terracotta color.

PROS

• Small size that is easy to move
• Unique and rustic design
• Perfect for small outdoor spaces
• Easy to feed with fuel

CONS

• May crack if not properly covered and stored during cold weather
• Small size may not be suitable for larger gatherings
• Price may be higher compared to other small chimineas

RediFlame Chiminea Kit

DIMENSIONS: 6 x 8 x 15 inches

If you’re looking for a portable and reusable chiminea that doubles as an insect repellant, the RediFlame Chiminea Kit is an excellent choice.  The chiminea is only small but can still be lined with sand and used to burn small logs, coals, and lava rock.

The Chiminea Kit is one of the best clay chimineas for those who want a portable and reusable chiminea that also doubles as an insect repellant burner. The kit comes with insect-repellant logs, which are a great way to keep mosquitoes and midges at bay in the warmer months of the year, making it easy to use right out of the box.

The eight essential oil blend in the insect repellant is effective and smells great, making it a perfect addition to any outdoor gathering. Additionally, its portable design makes it easy to move from one location to another, so you can enjoy a warm fire and keep insects at bay wherever you go. I did find it annoying to have to chop up the wood so small, though.

However, the Chiminea Kit is not without its downsides. It is not large enough to accommodate bigger pieces of wood, which may be a dealbreaker for some. Additionally, some customers have reported receiving broken chimineas, which can be frustrating. Finally, it is a bit pricey for its size and material, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

VERDICT: The RediFlame Chiminea Kit is perfect for two or three people to stay warm and enjoy the dancing flames of fire on an evening. It isn’t very big at all, which is good and bad. You can’t fit big pieces of wood in it, but you can move it around, store it, and take it camping. The best thing about this clay chiminea, though, is the price.

PROS

• Comes with everything you need, including all-natural insect repellent and fire starters.
• The eight essential oil blend in the insect repellant is effective and smells great.
• Portable design makes it easy to move from one location to another.

CONS

• Not large enough to accommodate bigger pieces of wood.
• Some customers have reported receiving broken chimineas.
• Pricey for its size and material.

Outdoor Clay Chiminea Sun Design Charcoal Burning Fire Pit with Metal Stand

DIMENSIONS: 12 x 12 x 25.5 inches

If you’re looking for a vintage-inspired chiminea to add warmth to your outdoor space, then check out the Outdoor Clay Chiminea with sun design and a metal stand. It is the largest clay chiminea I have tested and is much easier to feed with logs than the other two. This offers me more benefits than the portability of a smaller chiminea, which is why I think this is the best clay chiminea for backyards and patios.

If you’re looking for a unique and cozy addition to your outdoor space, the Outdoor Clay Chiminea Sun Design Charcoal Burning Fire Pit with Metal Stand may be worth considering. Its ability to radiate warmth to 2 – 5 people makes it an excellent choice for chilly evenings spent outdoors.

However, be aware that some customers have reported receiving damaged or broken items upon delivery, and the antique finish may fade over time with frequent use. Overall, this chiminea is a great choice for anyone looking to add a rustic touch to their outdoor decor and enjoy cool evenings by a warm fire.

VERDICT: The Sun Design Clay Chiminea is the one we ended up keeping. The larger size works better for hosting guests and family gatherings so that on an evening, more people can benefit from the heat this thing kicks out.

PROS

• The sun design is striking and adds a unique touch to any outdoor decor.
• The clay material absorbs heat and radiates warmth, making it a cozy addition to your garden, patio, porch, or yard.
• The simple design is attractive and doesn’t take away from the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.

CONS

• The product has received mixed reviews, with some customers receiving damaged or broken items upon delivery.
• At 22.6 pounds, this chiminea is on the heavier side and may be difficult to move around your outdoor space.
• The antique finish may fade or wear over time with frequent use.

Buyers Guide to the Best Clay Chimineas

When it comes to choosing the best clay chiminea for your backyard, garden or patio area, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Material

Clay chimineas are typically made from either terracotta or clay. Terracotta is a type of clay that has been fired at a high temperature, making it more durable and resistant to cracking. Clay chimineas made from terracotta are generally more expensive, but they are also more durable and long-lasting.

Size

Consider the size of the clay chiminea you want to buy. If you have a small outdoor space, a smaller chiminea may be more appropriate. On the other hand, if you have a larger outdoor space or plan to entertain guests, a larger chiminea may be a better choice. Be sure to measure your outdoor space before making a purchase.

Design

Clay chimineas come in a variety of designs, from traditional to modern. Consider the style of your outdoor space and choose a chiminea that complements it. Some chimineas also come with decorative elements such as patterns or designs, which can add a unique touch to your outdoor space.

Price

Clay chimineas can range in price from under $100 to over $500. Consider your budget when choosing a chiminea, but keep in mind that a higher-priced chiminea may be more durable and long-lasting.

Accessories

Some clay chimineas come with accessories such as a stand or cover. These accessories can help protect your chiminea and prolong its lifespan. Consider purchasing these accessories if they are not included with your chiminea.

Summary

• Material: Choose between terracotta or clay
• Size: Consider the size of your outdoor space
• Design: Choose a design that complements your outdoor space
• Price: Consider your budgetAccessoriesConsider purchasing a stand or cover

clay chiminea with damage after being left outside

How Long Do Clay Chimineas Last?

Clay chimineas can last for many years if they are properly cared for. The general consensus seems to be that a clay chiminea that is used often (100+ times per year) can last five years or more and will last for many years more if looked after properly.

However, no chiminea lasts forever, and they can start to deteriorate pretty quickly if they are not maintained. It is important to keep an eye on your chiminea and make sure it is in good condition. If you see any cracks or damage, be sure to repair them right away.

When used frequently and properly cared for, a clay chiminea should last at least five years. But with the right maintenance, and if you take it inside for winter, it can last even longer.

Will a Clay Chiminea Crack?

Clay chimineas can crack, but if looked after should last many years before that begins to happen. I think cracks are inevitable on a clay chiminea but that might take 10 – 20 years if you take care of it. And even if a crack does form, it doesn’t make the chiminea unusable, you just have to be even more careful not to knock it over.

Clay chimineas can crack due to a number of reasons, including exposure to extreme temperatures, sudden changes in temperature, and exposure to moisture. If a clay chiminea is regularly exposed to water, it can become unstable and crack at any weak point. Similarly, if water is poured on a hot chiminea, it can cause the clay to crack.

In addition, if the clay chiminea is not cured properly before use, it can also crack. It is important to follow proper care and maintenance instructions to prevent cracking and prolong the lifespan of the chiminea.

Can You Leave a Clay Chiminea Outside?

Yes, you can leave a clay chiminea outside, but it is important to take precautions to protect it from the elements.

Clay chimineas can be left outside, but they should be placed in an area not in direct sunlight and out of the wind and rain. Clay is a porous material, so if a clay chiminea is left outside during winter, it can become infiltrated with moisture, which can freeze and expand causing it to crack.

To protect a clay chiminea from the elements, it is recommended to use a chiminea cover, which can help prevent moisture from getting in and protect it from the sun and other elements

Thank you for reading this guide to the best clay chimineas.