What Is a Log Tote Used for in the Fireplace?

Carrying in the Logs

• Nature gave us arms to carry in the logs for the fire, which is fine for a strong 6'4" person who can hold all of the logs in one trip. But what about the 5'2" shortie with weak arms who needs five trips in the rain to carry in all of the wood? Thankfully, the log tote was invented for convenience. Log totes can be made from flat rug-like material with handles on both ends or square bottom tote bags made of sturdy materials like PVC. The rug-like totes are easy to use. Just lay them on the ground and place the logs across the tote and then pick up the handles in one hand to carry the logs. Some of these even have the ends turned up to keep the logs from slipping out the ends. The bag tote works just like a tote bag and holds small pieces of wood used for kindling or starting the fire. Some enterprising people have been known to rig up backpack type setups or use double totes to balance the weight.

Log Totes Sold with Racks

• The rug-like flat log totes are also known as slings. These come in everything from canvas to leather. One manufacturer makes a sling and open log rack combination that allows the leather sling to be used to carry in the logs and then becomes the sides and bottom of the log rack by placing the handles over the top brackets of the rack.This version runs about $130 whereas a canvas sling can be found for around $10 at a discount store. There are versions priced at all levels in between.

Take Advantage of Extra Help

• Take care when bringing logs inside the house. While log totes can help make things easier, they don't make it possible to lift more weight than the body can safely handle. Also, when friends and family are around, make use of the extra hands to fill the wood box. Since everyone enjoys the fire, they can all help make it possible. Offer them a meal after the chores are done and see how fast they are completed. It is surprising how much fun it seems when it is a team job.

Beware of Surprises in the Wood Pile

• For those new to rustic living, be aware that small animals and some rather nasty creatures have been known to make a home in the wood pile. So be careful how and where additional logs are stacked. In termite areas, keep the wood pile off the ground and away from the foundation of structures with any wood in them. Most home owners would not be happy to discover they brought any of these creatures in with their new log totes. Besides, the goal is to enjoy a nice fire, not give guests and family members heart attacks.