For a clean fire, pick dry hardwoods like oak, hickory, or beech—they burn hot and give off little smoke. Skip pine or resin‑heavy woods; they’ll puff a lot of soot. If you want a little herb help, toss a handful of dried sage or rosemary in the pile; they release a pleasant scent and help keep the smoke from getting too thick. Just make sure the wood is well seasoned and dry before you light it. Good luck, and enjoy the warmth!