Modern heating technology has transformed the way we keep our homes warm. From classic wood-burning stoves to convenient pellet stoves, let’s discuss the difference between the stove types.

The main types of stoves can be broken down into three categories: 1) Wood-burning, 2) Multifuel and 3) Pellet.

1. Wood-Burning Stoves

Also known as wood burners or log burners, these are the most popular choice for solid fuel heating. They burn wood fuel (such as firewood or WillowWarm briquettes) to create a cosy, strong heat.

Tip: Make sure to use ready-to-burn wood fuel such as WillowWarm briquettes. Burning wet, treated, or waste wood can cause dangerous waste deposits and increase the chance of fire hazards.

2. Multifuel Stoves

Multifuel stoves offer flexibility. They can burn wood fuel like a wood-burning stove, but can also handle smokeless fuels thanks to their unique design. A built-in grate allows airflow for efficient combustion of many different fuel types.

Tip: Never burn multiple fuel types at the same time, as this can damage your stove.

3. Pellet Stoves

Pellet stoves combine warmth with convenience. They burn compressed wood pellets and feature digital controls for easy temperature regulation. Pellets are fed automatically from a hopper, maintaining consistent heat without any manual effort, saving you a trip up from your cosy couch!

No matter which stove you choose, WillowWarm has you covered.

Our carbon-neutral briquettes work perfectly in wood-burning and multifuel stoves, while our premium pellets are ideal for pellet stoves.

Check out our full range of WillowWarm products here.

Whether you love Irish music, literature, folklore, or simply the joy of coming together, here are some of this year’s standout Irish events and traditions to mark on your calendar.

Main Gatherings and Festivals

TradFest (Jan 21–25, Dublin)

A winter celebration of traditional and folk music in Dublin’s historic venues.

St. Patrick’s Festival (Mar 14–17, Dublin)

Ireland’s national festival with parades, performances, and buzz throughout the city centre.

Bloomsday Festival (Jun 11–16, Dublin)

Step into Irish author James Joyce’s world with readings, performances, and costumed events.

Music Festivals

All Together Now (Jul 30–Aug 2, Waterford)
A boutique blend of music, art, and wellness on the scenic Curraghmore Estate.

Electric Picnic (Aug 28–30, Stradbally)
Ireland’s landmark music and arts festival with big headliners and creative zones.

Cork Jazz Festival (Oct 23–27, Cork)
Jazz legends and emerging artists take over Cork City.

Cultural & Literary Highlights

Galway International Arts Festival (Jul 13–26)
World-class theatre, music, and installations in Galway.

Rose of Tralee (Aug 14–18, Kerry)
A cultural celebration of Irish communities worldwide.

Food & Outdoor Adventures

Taste of Dublin (June, Dublin)
Chef demos, tastings, and gourmet pop-ups in the heart of the city.

Galway Oyster Festival (Sep 25–27)
Oyster-shucking championships and seafood tastings by the waterfront.

Connemara Mountain Walking Festival (May 1–3)
Guided walks through stunning Atlantic landscapes.

These events aren’t just celebrations, they’re a reflection of Ireland’s rich, vibrant culture and deeply rooted community spirit.

Stock up on WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes today.

It’s nearly summer in Ireland, which means we finally have some dry days ahead, maybe even some warm ones. It’s finally the perfect time to enjoy being outside with friends, family and a delicious BBQ. If you’re interested in hosting a guilt-free event or looking to make your BBQ a little more sustainable, why not try hosting a zero-waste BBQ using the following tips:

Ditch Single-Use Plastics

Encourage Your Guests to Carpool or Walk

A wood-burning stove is the perfect way to heat your home, especially during the colder winter months. But to keep it running safely and efficiently, regular cleaning is essential. Neglecting this task can lead to soot-stained glass, poor airflow, and even excess smoke. Follow our step-by-step guide for deep cleaning your stove to keep it in top condition.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, these movies are perfect for a cosy night in with your partner or a movie marathon with friends beside the fire.

We’ve put together our favourite Valentine’s Day movies and where you can watch them.

We Live In Time (R)

Recently divorced Tobias meets chef Almut when she hits him with her car, starting a romance that tests their resilience through joy and adversity.

Me Before You (PG‑13)

Daylight Saving Time Changes – When Are the Clocks Going Forward?

It’s that time of the year again, when everyone spends a week asking: “Are we gaining or losing an hour?” 

So, to answer your question once and for all: the clocks go forward one hour at 1 a.m. on Sunday, 29th March 2026. That means we will lose one hour in bed, and the clock will jump from 1 am straight away to 2 am. 

Why Do the Clocks Change?

The concept of changing the clocks, known as Daylight Saving Time (DST), was first introduced to make better use of natural daylight and as a result, reduce energy consumption. 

Here’s how it works: 

• In spring, we move clocks forward to enjoy longer evenings, with more sunlight. 

• In autumn, we move them back to get brighter mornings and an easier wake-up. 

When the mornings get lighter, our bodies produce less melatonin (the sleep hormone) and more serotonin (the “feel good” hormone), giving us a subtle energy boost. 

Not Everyone Changes Their Clocks 

While most countries in Europe and North America participate in Daylight Saving Time, plenty of others have said “no thanks.” 

Countries that don’t change their clocks include: 

• China – operates on one standard time zone year-round. 

• Japan – stopped using daylight saving time after World War II.  

• India – sticks to Indian Standard Time all year. 

• Iceland – so far north, daylight saving time barely makes a difference. 

• Most of Africa and South America don’t change their clocks at all. 

Meanwhile, the European Union has discussed ending clock changes altogether, but for now, Ireland still takes part. So, we’ll continue to gain and lose an hour for a little while longer!

The Positives

It’s easy to focus on the hassle of changing your clocks each year, but there are actually plenty of positives to look forward to: 

• Brighter mornings – ideal for early risers. 

• Cosier evenings – perfect for lighting a fire and slowing down after a long day. 

• A healthier routine – that extra hour of sleep when the clocks go back can do wonders for your energy and mood. 

In October, the clock change marks the start of the WillowWarm season, when homes glow brighter, nights get longer, and everyone craves a bit more comfort.

How to Avoid the Classic ‘Wrong-Time Wake-Up’ 

Every March and October, WhatsApp groups fill with confessions like “I showed up to brunch an hour early” or “my oven still thinks it’s summer.” Here’s how to stay one step ahead: 

• Update manual clocks before bed – phones and smart devices will sort themselves out. 

• Enjoy the extra hour when they go back – slow mornings are the best kind of mornings. 

No matter what the clock says, it’s always the right time for comfort and warmth.  

Stock up on WillowWarm briquettes today.

January is the perfect time to reset your spending habits and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. Here is our list of 8 practical ways to help you spend less in 2026 while reducing waste and energy use. 

1. Sell Unused Belongings

Start the year off by decluttering and turning forgotten items into cash. Check your wardrobe, shelves, and storage spaces for things you no longer use, as well as any unwanted Christmas gifts, electronics, books, or even old CDs. 

Second-hand selling platforms such as Depop and Vinted are great for fashion, while eBay and Gumtree work for almost anything else. Not only will you boost your bank balance, but you’ll also give these items a second life, keeping them out of landfill and supporting a circular economy.  

2. Insulate Your Home for Long-Term Savings

Energy efficiency is a win-win: it saves money and reduces your carbon footprint. Simple actions like turning off unused appliances, switching to energy-efficient bulbs, and lowering your thermostat can make a big difference. 

Did you know that turning your thermostat down by just 1°C can save around €80 a year? Layer up indoors, seal draughts, and consider upgrades like: 

• LED bulbs (use 90% less electricity and last 10x longer) 
• Draught-proofing doors and windows 
• Air-drying clothes instead of using a tumble dryer (saves €40+ annually) 
• Burn carbon-neutral fuel in an ecodesign stove instead of burning traditional solid fuels.

Almost all appliances can be turned off at the plug without affecting their settings. A smart plug or standby saver makes this easy and cuts unnecessary energy use. 

3. Bulk Shopping & Meal Prep

Plan ahead and buy in bulk to reduce costs and packaging waste. Cooking at home is not only cheaper than takeaways but also more sustainable. Try batch-cooking hearty meals and freezing portions, less food waste, less temptation to overspend. 

4. Celebrate at Home

Swap expensive nights out for cosy nights in. Host a movie marathon, cook a delicious meal, or enjoy a roaring WillowWarm fire with friends. 

5. Review Your Subscriptions

Streaming services, gym memberships, and magazine subscriptions can quietly drain your budget. Have a look through your monthly subscriptions and cancel anything you don’t need. 

6. Use Loyalty Schemes

Sign up for free loyalty programs like Tesco Clubcard or Sainsbury’s Nectar. These schemes offer discounts, cashback, and vouchers, such easy wins for regular shoppers. 

7. Choose Greener Transport

Fuel, parking, and maintenance costs add up fast. Opt for public transport, cycling, or carpooling to save money and reduce emissions. Many employers offer TaxSaver tickets or Bike to Work schemes, so check what’s available at your work. 

8. Simple Everyday Swaps

• Use refillable water bottles instead of buying drinks. 

• Dry clothes on a clothesline instead of using a tumble dryer. 

• Wash clothes at 30°C and only with full loads to save energy. 

Small changes add up, both for your wallet and the planet. These tips aren’t just about cutting back costs; they’re also about living more sustainably. 

Here at WillowWarm, we believe in reducing waste, conserving energy, and making choices that benefit both your home and the environment. Head into 2026 with smarter habits and enjoy the warmth of a more sustainable lifestyle. 

Stock up on WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes for a guilt-free fire this winter.  

Are you looking to make a move?

We are hiring a General Operative.

APPLY HERE THROUGH JOBS.IE

WillowWarm and Shamrock Renewable Products Limited is currently seeking a General Operative to join our Packaging Team at our Shamrock facility in Balrath, County Meath. This is a hands on role in a busy production environment, reporting to the Shift Lead.

Key Responsibilities:

• Working in the packaging area to pack, label and prepare products for dispatch
• Operating basic packaging equipment (training provided)
• Carrying out quality checks to ensure products meet company standards
• Supporting shift activities, including 12-hour day and night shifts
• Maintaining a clean, safe and organised packaging area
• Following all site safety, quality and hygiene procedures
• Adhering to site traffic management and environmental policies
• Supporting other general operative duties as required

Requirements:

• Previous experience in a packaging or production environment is an advantage
• Experience working shift work preferred
• Ability to work well as part of a team
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong attention to detail and quality
• Reliable, punctual and safety-conscious
• Willingness to learn and take instruction

What We Offer:

• Full time, permanent position
• Shift based role (12-hour day and night shifts)
• Salary negotiable depending on experience (DOE)
• Full training provided
• Opportunity to work with a growing renewable products company

APPLY HERE THROUGH JOBS.IE

Please note that due to the high volume of applicants, not every application will receive a response.

Things NOT to Buy in 2026 (and What to Use Instead)

Is there anything more festive than sitting in front of a blazing WillowWarm fire decorated head to toe with festive decor? If you happen to have a mantelpiece that is looking a bit bare, why not make the most of it with our top tips for styling your mantelpiece? From garlands and fairy lights to stockings and ornaments, here are five different decor ideas to style your fireplace for Christmas.  

1. Cosy Village Scene 

Bring the charm of a festive town square into your living room. Decorate your mantel with miniature Christmas village houses, tiny lampposts, and snow-dusted figurines. Add a sprinkle of faux snow along the base and weave warm white fairy lights through the scene to mimic glowing streetlights. For extra magic, include a small train set or a skating rink figurine, perfect for creating that nostalgic, storybook feel.  

 You can find the cutest minis to use over on Amazon here.  

2. Classic Colours 

It’s hard for traditional to ever go out of style. Drape a garland with baubles across your mantel and pair it with a matching wreath. Hang red stockings and add brass candlesticks for a warm, festive glow.  

3. Festive Foliage 

Appealing to more than just your eyes; incorporate real pine branches, acorns and holly into your Christmas display to create a beautiful festive scent and an eye-catching centrepiece. 

4. Cosy Christmas Lights 

If the fire’s glow isn’t enough, add extra sparkle! Choose fairy lights in warm white or multicoloured and drape them across the mantel, around the base, and even inside a decorative fireplace. If you are seeking an extra sparkle, why not try using “Cluster LED” styled Christmas lights that have a unique twinkle?

5. Festive Florals 

A popular trend for 2025, have you seen people adding baby’s breath flowers inside their Christmas trees? Inspired by this Christmas tree trend, why not incorporate elegant white pops to your mantel piece using fresh or dried baby’s breath flowers for even more frosty elegance?  

Your fireplace is often the most eye-catching part of your home during the winter season, setting the tone for the rest of the house. Choose a theme that speaks to you, and don’t forget to stock up on WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes to make your festive fireplace even cosier.