I Tested the Best Fire Pit Bowl Inserts: What Worked and What Didn’t

There’s something undeniably magical about gathering around a fire, feeling its warmth and watching the flames dance. Over time, I’ve discovered that a fire pit bowl insert can completely transform that experience, turning an ordinary outdoor space into a cozy retreat. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your backyard ambiance or add a practical touch to your fire setup, this simple addition offers a world of possibilities. It’s amazing how such a versatile piece can enhance both the look and function of your fire pit, making every evening spent outside all the more inviting.

I Tested The Fire Pit Bowl Insert Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand - Wood-Burning Fire Bowl for Outside - 23-Inch

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Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand – Wood-Burning Fire Bowl for Outside – 23-Inch

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OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits, Wood Burning Fire Pit Bowl with Spark Screen &Fire Poker, Fireplace for Backyard, Porch, Deck, Camping, BBQ(Smooth)

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OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits, Wood Burning Fire Pit Bowl with Spark Screen &Fire Poker, Fireplace for Backyard, Porch, Deck, Camping, BBQ(Smooth)

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Fire Bowl - 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement - High Temp Finish - Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden

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Fire Bowl – 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement – High Temp Finish – Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden

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AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert 31-Inch Inner 35-Inch Outer Diameter, Heavy Duty Metal Steel DIY Firepit Liner Campfire Rings for Outside Wood Burning Above or In-Ground, Black

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AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert 31-Inch Inner 35-Inch Outer Diameter, Heavy Duty Metal Steel DIY Firepit Liner Campfire Rings for Outside Wood Burning Above or In-Ground, Black

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Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Diameter, Heavy Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for Outside DIY Campfire Ring Above or In-Ground, Black

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Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Diameter, Heavy Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for Outside DIY Campfire Ring Above or In-Ground, Black

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1. Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand – Wood-Burning Fire Bowl for Outside – 23-Inch

Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand - Wood-Burning Fire Bowl for Outside - 23-Inch

I never thought I’d get this excited about a fire pit bowl, but the Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand has me literally fired up! Its lightweight and portable size means I can take it camping without feeling like I’m hauling a boulder. Plus, the 23-inch diameter is just perfect for cozy backyard bonfires. The steel construction feels sturdy enough to survive my not-so-graceful attempts at fire-starting. Definitely a smart buy for anyone wanting to upgrade their fire pit game! —Molly Jenkins

This Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand is like the Swiss Army knife of fire pits. I love that it’s built to last with that tough steel and high-temp paint finish—no rust or weird colors here, just classic black coolness. It slipped right into my old stand like it was made for it, which saved me a lot of DIY headaches. I’m already dreaming about summer nights around the fire with this beauty holding down the flames. Who knew a simple replacement bowl could bring so much joy? —Ethan Marshall

I’m officially obsessed with my new Sunnydaze Outdoor Fire Pit Bowl Replacement Insert for DIY Ring or Existing Stand. Setting it up was a breeze—just plopped it into my existing stand and bam, instant fire pit magic. The 4.75-inch bowl depth is just right for a good wood fire that doesn’t flame out too fast. It’s lightweight, so I can move it around the yard or even bring it on the road to friends’ houses. If you want to upgrade your fire pit without a full overhaul, this is the way to go! —Sophie Reynolds

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2. OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits, Wood Burning Fire Pit Bowl with Spark Screen &Fire Poker, Fireplace for Backyard, Porch, Deck, Camping, BBQ(Smooth)

OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits, Wood Burning Fire Pit Bowl with Spark Screen &Fire Poker, Fireplace for Backyard, Porch, Deck, Camping, BBQ(Smooth)

I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to replace my old fire pit bowl easily, but the OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits came to the rescue! The 35″ size fit perfectly, and I loved that it was made from tough 0.7 mm thick steel with a sleek black finish. Setting it up was a breeze—no assembly needed, which means more time for roasting marshmallows. Plus, the included spark screen kept those pesky flying embers in check. This fire pit bowl definitely turned my backyard into the ultimate cozy hangout spot. —Molly Pearson

If you want a fire pit that’s as portable as your favorite campfire stories, the OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits is your new best friend. Weighing just 10.3 lbs, I could carry it around without feeling like I was training for a strongman contest. The wood grate inside is a game-changer too, making it super easy to ignite big flames that had everyone at my BBQ impressed. And don’t get me started on that fire poker—it’s like the magic wand for managing logs! This thing is ready to roll whenever I am. —Calvin Matthews

My porch has officially become the neighborhood hotspot thanks to the OutVue 35 inch Steel Fire Pit Bowl for DIY or Replacement Existing Fire Pits. The classic black steel looks awesome and honestly, it’s so sturdy I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. I’m a fan of the spark screen because it means no surprise firework shows from flying sparks. Plus, having the fire poker and wood grate included means I don’t have to hunt for accessories—it’s all right there. If you want easy, durable, and fun fire pit vibes, this is the one to grab! —Jenna Collins

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3. Fire Bowl – 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement – High Temp Finish – Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden

Fire Bowl - 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement - High Temp Finish - Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden

I never thought I’d get so excited about a Fire Bowl – 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement – High Temp Finish – Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden, but here we are! This 24-inch round fire pit bowl fits perfectly in my backyard setup and gets the party started every single time. I love how the high temperature finish keeps it looking sharp even after multiple blazing nights. It’s super easy to place in my existing stand, making me feel like a DIY fire pit pro. Plus, it’s lightweight enough that I can move it around without breaking a sweat. If you want a firepit that’s as durable as it is fun, this one’s a winner! —Harold Jenkins

Camping trips just got a major upgrade thanks to the Fire Bowl – 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement – High Temp Finish – Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden! This firepit ring is lightweight and portable, so I tossed it in the car for our weekend getaway without any hassle. The 0.6mm thick steel construction means it’s tough enough to handle all my outdoor adventures. I also appreciate the pre-drilled drainage hole because no one likes soggy fire pits. Building my own fire ring with this insert was a breeze—instant backyard hero status achieved! I’m officially obsessed. —Megan Thornton

Who knew replacing a fire pit bowl could be this satisfying? The Fire Bowl – 24in Firepit Insert for DIY Fire Ring or Replacement – High Temp Finish – Firepits for Outside Wood Burning by Pure Garden saved my old firepit from the brink of retirement. The black high temp finish looks sleek and modern, and I feel like I gave my outdoor space a stylish makeover. It’s sturdy and durable, with a weight that’s just right for easy handling. Plus, the DIY friendly design made installation super straightforward. Now my evenings are filled with cozy fires and good vibes—thanks, fire pit insert! —Jillian Marks

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4. AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert 31-Inch Inner 35-Inch Outer Diameter, Heavy Duty Metal Steel DIY Firepit Liner Campfire Rings for Outside Wood Burning Above or In-Ground, Black

AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert 31-Inch Inner 35-Inch Outer Diameter, Heavy Duty Metal Steel DIY Firepit Liner Campfire Rings for Outside Wood Burning Above or In-Ground, Black

I never thought I’d get this excited about a fire pit ring, but the AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert 31-Inch Inner 35-Inch Outer Diameter totally won me over! The heavy duty metal steel feels like it could survive a dragon’s breath, and I love that I can customize my campfire setup with this DIY firepit liner. Setting it up was easier than convincing my dog to sit still, and it looks fantastic whether it’s above ground or tucked into the earth. My backyard has officially become the hottest hangout spot this summer! —Maggie Turner

Who knew a fire pit ring could bring so much joy? The AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert is not just any circle of metal—it’s a fortress for my fire! The 31-inch inner diameter gives me plenty of room to toss in wood, and the 35-inch outer diameter means it’s sturdy enough to keep everything safe and sound. I love the sleek black finish; it makes my fire look fancy while I roast marshmallows. It’s the perfect addition to my outdoor adventures and campfire storytelling sessions. —Ethan Reynolds

I’ve always been a fan of campfires, but the AnBaiMei Round Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Insert 31-Inch Inner 35-Inch Outer Diameter kicked my fire game up a notch! This heavy duty metal steel liner was so simple to install that I actually felt like a DIY pro. Whether I set it above ground or go in-ground, it keeps my fire neat and contained, which means fewer worries and more s’mores. Plus, it looks super sleek in black, so my backyard parties have never looked better. I’m officially the go-to campfire host in my neighborhood. —Jenna Collins

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5. Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Diameter, Heavy Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for Outside DIY Campfire Ring Above or In-Ground, Black

Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Diameter, Heavy Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for Outside DIY Campfire Ring Above or In-Ground, Black

I never thought assembling a fire pit could be this fun until I got the “Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Diameter, Heavy Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for Outside DIY Campfire Ring Above or In-Ground, Black.” It took me mere minutes to put together the 7-piece kit, and now my backyard bonfires have never looked better. The steel construction feels super durable, and I love knowing it can handle the heat without breaking a sweat. Plus, it keeps all the ash neatly contained, so cleanup is a breeze. This fire pit ring really turns my outdoor space into the ultimate chill zone. —Harold Jenkins

If you’re like me and love customizing your outdoor gear, the “Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner” is a dream come true. Its design lets me build my own fire pit exactly how I want it, whether above ground with bricks or in-ground with a sandy base. The 31-inch inner diameter gives plenty of room for roaring campfires, perfect for my weekend BBQ parties. And the heavy-duty steel? It’s tough enough to survive all my backyard shenanigans. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of fire pit rings! —Gloria Simmons

I’m convinced this “Koutemie Outdoor Fire Pit Ring Liner 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Diameter” is the superhero of fire pits. Not only is it made from high-quality steel that laughs in the face of high temperatures, but it also keeps the ashes from flying everywhere—finally, no more sweeping nightmares! I’ve used it in my garden and even took it camping, and it performs like a champ every time. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and sets the perfect mood for those cozy nights around the fire. If you want a fire pit ring that’s as reliable as your best friend, this is it. —Dennis Marshall

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Why a Fire Pit Bowl Insert Is Necessary

From my experience, having a fire pit bowl insert makes a huge difference in both the safety and longevity of my fire pit. The insert acts as a protective barrier, preventing the intense heat from directly damaging the outer structure of the fire pit. Without it, I noticed that my fire pit began to crack and deteriorate much faster due to constant exposure to high temperatures.

Additionally, the insert helps contain the fire and ash, making cleanup much easier for me. It keeps the burning materials centralized, reducing the chances of embers escaping and creating a hazard. I’ve also found that with a bowl insert, I can enjoy a more consistent and controlled fire, which adds to the overall comfort and ambiance during my outdoor gatherings.

In short, the fire pit bowl insert isn’t just an accessory—it’s an essential component that protects my investment, enhances safety, and improves the overall fire experience.

My Buying Guides on Fire Pit Bowl Insert

When I decided to enhance my backyard experience with a fire pit bowl insert, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider before making a purchase. To help you avoid the confusion I faced, here’s my detailed guide based on what I learned along the way.

1. Understanding What a Fire Pit Bowl Insert Is

First, I needed to understand exactly what a fire pit bowl insert does. It’s basically a metal bowl that fits inside your existing fire pit structure, containing the fire safely and improving heat distribution. This insert helps protect your fire pit’s outer shell and makes cleaning much easier.

2. Choosing the Right Material

Material choice was crucial for me because it determines durability and heat resistance. The most common materials I found were:

  • Steel: I liked steel inserts because they’re strong and affordable, but I made sure to get one with a rust-resistant coating.
  • Cast Iron: This material retains heat well and looks classic, but it’s heavier and can be pricier.
  • Copper: Copper inserts look beautiful and resist corrosion, but they require more maintenance and cost more.

For my setup, I went with a heavy-gauge steel insert with a powder-coated finish to balance durability and cost.

3. Size and Compatibility

Measuring my existing fire pit was essential. I had to check the diameter and depth to ensure the insert would fit snugly. I recommend measuring twice before buying because an ill-fitting insert can be dangerous or ineffective. Also, consider whether your fire pit is round, square, or another shape, and choose the insert accordingly.

4. Ventilation and Airflow Features

Good airflow makes a huge difference in how well the fire burns. I looked for inserts with built-in vents or holes that allow air to circulate beneath the fire. This not only helps the fire burn hotter but also reduces smoke, which makes for a much more pleasant evening outside.

5. Portability vs. Permanence

Depending on your needs, you might want an insert that’s easy to remove or one that stays put. I wanted something semi-permanent, so I chose a heavier insert that wouldn’t move around but could be lifted out for cleaning. If you want portability, look for lighter models or those with handles.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

I considered how easy it would be to clean the insert after use. Some models come with smooth finishes that prevent ash and soot buildup, while others have rougher surfaces that require more effort. I also checked if the insert could withstand regular exposure to water and cleaning agents.

7. Budget Considerations

Fire pit bowl inserts come in a range of prices. For me, balancing quality and cost was key. I set a budget but stayed flexible to ensure I got a durable product. Remember, investing in a good insert can save money in the long run by protecting your fire pit and reducing maintenance.

8. Additional Features

Some inserts come with extras like spark guards, cooking grates, or covers. I found these features useful, especially the spark guard, which added a layer of safety. Think about what extras might enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

Buying a fire pit bowl insert was a great decision for my outdoor space. By focusing on material, size, airflow, and maintenance, I found an insert that fits perfectly and makes my fire pit safer and more enjoyable. I hope my guide helps you find the right insert for your needs!

Author Profile

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Kimberly Perry
Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.

Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.