As winter settles in, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient becomes a top priority. One often overlooked source of heat loss is the fireplace, especially when it is not in use.
Cold air can easily enter through the chimney, making your heating system work harder and increasing energy bills.
Fireplace draft stoppers offer a simple and effective solution to block unwanted airflow, retain warmth, and improve indoor comfort.
Designed to fit securely inside the flue or around the hearth, these accessories help maintain a cozy atmosphere throughout the colder months while also reducing drafts, noise, and heat loss.
10. Otoolling Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug
The Otoolling Fireplace Draft Stopper is a high‑performance solution for sealing your wood‑burning fireplace when it’s not in use.
Crafted from dense, natural wool felt, the plug creates a tight barrier that blocks unwanted drafts, helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, and keeps dust and debris out of the chimney.
Each blocker is intentionally oversized and can be trimmed with scissors to match any flue opening, with standard sizes of 24″ × 8″, 32.01″ × 7.87″, and 35″ × 13″.
A sturdy metal telescoping pole (16″–58″) lets you safely lower and retrieve the plug without climbing onto the roof or leaning over the fireplace.
The flexible wool compresses to fit irregular flues, sealing gaps while still allowing the chimney to “breathe.” Installation is as simple as sliding the plug into the flue; removal is equally effortless using the included pole.
Important: Use only with wood‑burning fireplaces after the fire and ashes have completely cooled. Not suitable for active gas log sets or while the fire is burning.
Pros
- Customizable fit for any flue size
- Dense wool provides superior insulation
- Telescoping pole reaches deep chimneys safely
- Easy install, quick removal
- Reduces heat loss and energy bills
Cons
- Not for gas‑vented fireplaces
- Requires cool fire before use
- Must trim for perfect fit
9. XYGOVIA Rectangular Flue Plug Stopper
The XYGOVIA 8″ × 32″ Draft Excluder is a rectangular flue plug designed to seal your fireplace chimney with effortless precision.
Made from 100 % pure wool, the 1‑inch‑thick blocker is dense, renewable and rigid, creating a tight barrier that keeps warm air inside and blocks cold drafts, odors, noise, debris, and insects from entering your home.
Two sewn‑in loops let you trim the plug to a perfect fit—just make it slightly larger than the opening for an airtight seal. Installation is a breeze: simply slide the damper into the flue above the fireplace, and when you’re ready to enjoy a fire, pull it out.
The plug pays for itself in a single heating season by reducing heat loss, but it should never be used with movable gas appliances and should be kept away from pets, insects, or charcoal ash for safety. If any issue arises, the seller promises a 24‑hour response to resolve it.
Pros
- Saves heating costs each season
- Pure wool provides superior seal
- Easy install, no tools required
- Trim to fit any rectangular flue
- Blocks drafts, odors, and pests
Cons
- Not compatible with gas appliances
- Requires occasional trimming for fit
- Keep away from pets and ash
8. Flueblocker 7″X19″ Chimney Draft Stopper
The Flueblocker for a 7″ × 19″ chimney flue is a smart, eco‑friendly alternative to inflatable pillows or fabric covers. Its pressure‑fit design slides into any rectangular flue that is 7″ × 19″ or smaller; the actual block measures 8″ × 20″, so buying a couple of inches larger than your opening guarantees a snug seal.
If needed, the dense wool can be trimmed with scissors to match unusual dimensions or hardware. Made from 100 % Herdwick wool imported from England, this naturally renewable material stays rigid and never deflates, eliminating the hassle of punctures.
Safety note: Do not use the Flueblocker with an active vented gas log—disable or remove the log first. Once installed just above the firebox, the block creates an airtight barrier that stops drafts, odors, noise, and debris, keeping warm indoor air where it belongs.
The result is a quieter, cleaner home and enough energy savings to pay for itself in a single heating season. Removal is just as simple, letting you enjoy your fireplace whenever you wish.
Pros
- Fits 7″ × 19″ or smaller flues
- Trim‑to‑size with scissors
- Blocks drafts, odors, noise, debris
- Saves energy, pays for itself
- 100 % renewable Herdwick wool
Cons
- Not compatible with active vented gas logs
- Requires a few extra inches for proper fit
- Wool may need occasional trimming for perfect seal
7. Flueblocker for 11″X19″ Chimney
The Flueblocker for an 11″ × 19″ chimney flue is a sturdy, reusable draft‑stopper that fits snugly into any rectangular opening up to 11 × 19 inches (the product itself measures 12 × 20 in, so trim a few inches if needed).
Made from 100 % Herdwick wool imported from England, the dense, renewable fibers stay rigid without puncturing, deflating, or sagging.
Installation is a breeze—just slide the block into the flue just above the firebox, and remove it whenever you want to light a fire.
The airtight seal blocks drafts, odors, noise, and debris, helping your home stay warmer and potentially paying for itself in a single heating season.
Important: do not use with an active vented gas log; the log must be disabled or removed for safety.
Pros
- Fits 11 × 19 flue or smaller
- Easy slide‑in installation
- Reusable, no deflation risk
- Blocks drafts, odors, and debris
- Energy‑saving, warm home
Cons
- Not compatible with active vented gas logs
- Requires trimming for exact fit
- Wool may attract pets’ curiosity
6. Chimney Sheep Flueblocker 8/9″ Round
The Flueblocker is a premium draft‑stopper designed specifically for 8‑inch or 9‑inch round chimney flues. Its solid 10‑inch round body fits snugly into the opening, and if needed you can trim it with scissors for a perfect seal.
Made from 100 % Herdwick wool imported from England, this dense, renewable material stays rigid and does not puncture or deflate like inflatable balloons or fabric covers.
Installation is a breeze—just drop the plug into the flue just above the firebox, and remove it whenever you want to light the stove.
Because it creates an airtight seal, the Flueblocker eliminates drafts, unwanted odors, noise, and debris, keeping warm indoor air where it belongs.
The energy savings from reduced heat loss can pay for the product in a single heating season.
Important: it must not be used with an active vented gas log; the log must be disabled or removed for safety.
Pros
- Stops drafts and odors instantly
- Natural, renewable Herdwick wool construction
- Easy to install and remove
- Saves energy, pays for itself
- Rigid seal, no deflation risk
Cons
- Not compatible with active gas logs
- Requires trimming for exact fit
- Limited to 8‑/9‑inch round flues
5. Flueblocker 13″X27″ Fireplace Draft Stopper
The Flueblocker for a 13″ × 27″ chimney flue is a rugged, reusable draft‑stopper that outperforms inflatable pillows or balloon covers.
Its pressure‑fit design slides snugly into any rectangular flue up to 13″ × 27″ (the product itself measures 14″ × 28″, so trim a little if needed).
Made from 100 % Herdwick wool imported from England, the dense, naturally renewable material stays rigid and sealed without puncturing or deflating.
Installation is a breeze—just drop the block into the flue just above the firebox, and remove it whenever you’re ready to fire up the hearth. The airtight seal eliminates drafts, odors, noise, and debris, helping your home stay warmer and potentially paying for itself in a single heating season.
Important: Do not use with an active vented gas log; the log must be disabled or removed for safety.
Pros
- Fits 13″ × 27″ flues perfectly
- Trim‑to‑size with ordinary scissors
- Blocks drafts, odors, and noise
- Reusable, no deflation worries
- Eco‑friendly Herdwick wool construction
Cons
- Not compatible with active gas logs
- Slightly larger than opening, requires trimming
- Requires rectangular flue shape
4. Max 2-Ply Inflatable Fireplace Draft Stopper
The 10×10 Max 2‑Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow is a versatile draft stopper that seals both rectangular (up to 11″ square) and round flues.
Its sturdy 2‑ply construction and 7‑inch handle valve make insertion and removal effortless, while the included 2‑foot inflation tube lets you fill it by mouth or a standard air‑bed pump.
In winter, the pillow blocks cold drafts, odors, and heat loss, turning your fireplace into an efficient heat source.
Come summer, it keeps smoky smells, noisy drafts, and debris out of the home. The design is DIY‑friendly: inflate when you need a seal and deflate for easy storage.
Important safety note: it cannot be used with an active gas log set unless the logs are disabled or removed. This simple, reusable solution works better than a traditional flue cover plate damper, providing an airtight barrier without permanent modifications.
Pros
- Fits 10×10 flue openings easily
- Quick inflation with mouth or pump
- Blocks cold drafts and heat loss
- Prevents smoky odors in summer
- Reusable, easy to deflate and store
Cons
- Not compatible with active gas logs
- Requires manual inflation each use
- Limited to flues up to 11″ square
3. Chimney Balloon Max 2-Ply Inflatable Draft Stopper
The Chimney Balloon 21×10 Max 2‑Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow is a versatile draft stopper that seals rectangular flues from 17″ × 7″ up to 21″ × 10″.
Its robust 2‑ply construction and 7‑inch handle valve make inflation and removal effortless, while the included two‑foot tube lets you fill it by mouth or a small air‑bed pump.
In winter it blocks cold drafts, odors, and heat loss, turning your fireplace into an efficient heat source.
Come summer, it shields your home from smoky smells, noisy drafts, and airborne debris. The balloon is easily deflated for seasonal use, and because it creates a tight seal, it also helps keep out outdoor pollutants, roof heat, and wildfire smoke.
Important safety note: it must not be used with an active gas log set; the set must be disabled or removed first.
Pros
- Fits a wide range of flue sizes
- Simple inflation with mouth or pump
- Blocks cold drafts and heat loss
- Prevents smoke, odors, and debris
- Easy to deflate and store
Cons
- Not compatible with active gas logs
- Requires manual inflation each season
- Limited to rectangular flues only
2. Riverbend Outdoor Fireplace Plug
A sturdy, inflatable plug designed for brick or masonry fireplaces with a rectangular damper, this draft stopper fits most openings up to 38 × 16 in. The high‑density polyurethane pillow slides in below the damper, sealing the flue without any tools, mess, or permanent modifications.
A telescoping pole supports the pillow while you position it, then folds away for storage. The sleek black pillow and pole blend into the fireplace cavity, making the device virtually invisible once installed.
By blocking unwanted drafts, it dramatically reduces heat loss, downdrafts, odors, toxins, noise, and even insects—turning an open fireplace from an energy‑sucking window into a well‑insulated opening.
One plug works for virtually any brick fireplace, so you can protect every room that features a hearth. Install it quickly, enjoy immediate comfort, and watch your heating bills shrink.
Pros
- Easy, mess‑free installation below damper
- One size fits most brick fireplaces
- Reduces heat loss and energy bills
- Blocks odors, noise, and insects
- Low‑profile black design blends in
Cons
- Not suitable for non‑rectangular dampers
- Requires occasional reinflation after heavy use
- Telescoping pole may feel flimsy for some users
1. Max 2-Ply Inflatable Fireplace Draft Stopper
The 34×9 Max 2‑Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow is a versatile draft stopper that seals rectangular flues ranging from 28” × 5” up to 34” × 9”. Its 7‑inch handle valve makes inflation and deflation quick, while the included 2‑foot inflation tube lets you pump it up by mouth or with a standard air‑bed pump.
In winter, the pillow blocks cold drafts, unwanted odors, and heat loss, turning your chimney into an effective air seal.
n summer, it prevents smoky smells, noisy drafts, and debris from entering your home. The design is DIY‑friendly—simply inflate, place, and enjoy a snug, insulated seal.
Important safety note: this plug cannot be used with an active gas log set; the logs must be disabled or removed before installation.
Key Features
– Fits flues 28” × 5” to 34” × 9”
– 7‑inch handle valve for easy control
– 2‑ft inflation tube (mouth or pump)
– 2‑ply construction for durability
– Works for both winter heat retention and summer draft protection
Pros
- Fits a wide range of flue sizes
- Simple inflation with mouth or pump
- Strong 2‑ply material resists tears
- Blocks cold drafts and heat loss
- Easy to deflate and store
Cons
- Not compatible with active gas logs
- Requires manual inflation each season
- May need occasional re‑inflation for perfect seal
Frequently Asked Questions
How does an inflatable chimney draft stopper work?
When you inflate the stopper, it expands to fill the chimney flue, creating an airtight seal that blocks cold drafts, wind, and moisture from entering your home. The sealed chamber also helps retain heat by preventing warm air from escaping up the chimney when the fireplace isn’t in use.
Can I install the draft stopper myself, and what tools are required?
Yes, most inflatable draft stoppers are designed for DIY installation. You’ll need a standard household air pump (often included) or a small electric pump, a ladder to reach the chimney opening, and a flashlight for visibility. Follow the manufacturer’s step‑by‑step guide: position the stopper at the base of the flue, inflate until firm but not over‑stretched, and seal any gaps with the provided weather‑proof tape.
Will using an inflatable draft stopper affect the safety of my fireplace?
No, when properly installed the stopper does not interfere with the fireplace’s safety features. It only seals the flue when the fire is out. Always remove the stopper before lighting a fire, and never use it while the fireplace is burning. Regularly inspect the stopper for tears or wear, and replace it if any damage is found to maintain a reliable seal.
Conclusion
Investing in an inflatable chimney draft stopper is a straightforward way to boost comfort, energy efficiency, and safety during the colder months.
By sealing unwanted drafts, these devices help maintain a steadier indoor temperature, reduce heating costs, and prevent cold air from infiltrating living spaces.
Their ease of installation and removal means you can adapt your fireplace setup to seasonal needs without permanent modifications, while the durable, heat‑resistant materials ensure reliable performance year after year.
Ultimately, a well‑chosen inflatable draft stopper offers a low‑maintenance, cost‑effective solution that enhances the warmth and coziness of any home fireplace.
