An open flame adds atmosphere, and also responsibility. With classic bioethanol, liquid alcohol burns in an open reservoir, so vapours can ignite quickly if used incorrectly. Tenderflame is different. It works exclusively with Tenderfuel and a patented steel wick, so the flame burns on the wick rather than a free pool of liquid. That makes the experience calmer and more predictable. Ventilation remains the advice with any real flame.
- Funnel stage
- Consideration
- Cluster
- Bio-ethanol
- Read time
- 12 min
- Source
- Tenderflame FAQ and Tenderfuel
In short
- Classic bioethanol burns liquid alcohol in an open reservoir and needs extra care indoors, especially around refilling
- Tenderflame runs on Tenderfuel, which is not classified as toxic or flammable and only burns in combination with the steel wick
- The steel wick doses the fuel and avoids an open pool of liquid, resulting in a stable, controlled flame
- Always ventilate with any open flame; thanks to cleaner burning, the indoor feel is notably calmer
Bioethanol indoors: what changes inside?
Indoors, every open flame consumes oxygen and produces water vapour and CO2. With classic bioethanol, vapour from liquid alcohol can ignite rapidly, especially if there is spillage or refilling while parts are still warm. That demands discipline. Only refill when cold, leave no open residue and keep ventilation in mind throughout. Want the ambience of a real flame, with more control over how it burns? The Tenderflame approach is relevant, because the flame burns only on the steel wick.
Tenderfuel and the steel wick: control over the flame
Tenderflame uses Tenderfuel with a patented steel wick. The flame burns on the wick, not on the fluid itself. Tenderfuel is not classified as toxic or flammable and will not ignite without the steel wick. This gives a stable flame pattern without an open pool of fuel. Tenderfuel has been thoroughly tested by independent bodies such as KIWA, RISE and TÜV. The result is a safe, calm fire experience at home, without a chimney and without smoke or odour.
Ventilation and placement at home
Ventilation remains the starting point with any open flame. Thanks to cleaner burning without smoke or odour, the experience with Tenderfuel feels calmer, but fresh air is still essential. Mind placement too. Set the fireplace on a stable surface, away from draughts and at a safe distance from curtains, plants and decor. Do not use it beneath low shelves or cabinets. Always follow the model-specific manual for clearances.
Lighting, refilling and extinguishing: how to do it
- Fill the reservoir with Tenderfuel. For the first light, pour a little Tenderfuel over the steel wick. - Light the wick with a powerful lighter, for example a gas torch. Keep your hand at a safe distance. - Extinguishing differs per model. Small table fireplaces can be blown out. Larger models are extinguished with the supplied snuffer. Place the snuffer over the wick and preferably leave it in place until next use. - Only refill when the fireplace is extinguished and fully cooled. Use Tenderfuel only. Other fuels, such as bioethanol, are not permitted. - Store Tenderfuel tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Warmth and ambience: what to expect?
Tenderflame provides real, tangible warmth. Depending on the model, this ranges from subtle supplementary warmth to a pleasant feel for a seating area. The fireplaces are developed for ambience and comfort, not as a primary heat source. Choose a size that fits your room. Compact table models suit a dining or coffee table. Larger models work for the living room. Unsure about size or type? Start with your use moments. Long dinners at the table, or a quiet flame beside the sofa?
Common indoor questions: sputtering and smell
If you have not used the fireplace for a while and hear small pops when lighting, ambient moisture may have been absorbed by the Tenderfuel. When heated, micro droplets burst and steam is released. This is harmless and easy to avoid. Two options. Let the fireplace burn itself empty during use so no fuel remains, or top up with fresh Tenderfuel and pour a little over the wick. According to the instructions, the old Tenderfuel can be poured down the drain. As for smell, Tenderfuel burns without smoke or odour. If a smell lingers, it is often due to spillage or insufficient ventilation. Wipe the rim of the reservoir and ventilate the room.
Safety at home: children, pets and materials
Place the fireplace out of reach of children and pets, and never leave a flame unattended. Choose a stable surface and keep clear of textiles and decor. Use Tenderfuel only in a Tenderflame. Other fuels, such as bioethanol, can create dangerous situations and are not permitted. Tenderfuel is not classified as toxic or flammable and burns only with the steel wick. That adds peace of mind in daily indoor use.
No chimney: where does this fit in your interior?
Because Tenderflame needs no chimney, you can place the flame where you want atmosphere. Think of the dining table, a sideboard or a low cabinet, provided it is stable and free from draughts. In flats and rented homes this is an advantage, because fixed installations are often not allowed. Choose a design that complements your interior and follow the recommended placement distances per model.
Next step: more mindful indoor burning
Thinking of moving from classic bioethanol to a calmer, more controlled flame? Learn how Tenderfuel and the steel wick work together, and which models suit your room. Read the comparison with bioethanol or explore how to enjoy a real flame indoors in a relaxed and safe way.
Classic bioethanol indoors
- Flammable liquid in an open reservoir
- Risk of vapour ignition and flashback when refilled warm
- Spillage can ignite immediately
- Higher chance of smell or soot complaints with incomplete combustion
Tenderflame on Tenderfuel indoors
- Burns only on the steel wick, not on a free pool
- Tenderfuel not classified as toxic or flammable
- Refill when cold and extinguish with the supplied snuffer
- Cleaner flame without smoke or odour
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Tenderflame indoors?
Yes. All Tenderflame products are designed for indoor use. Always ensure adequate ventilation and follow your model’s instructions.
May I use other fuels in my Tenderflame?
No. Tenderflame works exclusively on Tenderfuel. Using other fuels, such as bioethanol, is not permitted and can be dangerous.
How do I light my Tenderflame safely?
Fill the reservoir with Tenderfuel, pour a little over the steel wick and light the wick with a powerful lighter. Extinguish by blowing out small models, or use the supplied snuffer on larger models.
Why does my fireplace sometimes sputter when lighting?
Tenderfuel can absorb ambient moisture. When heated, tiny droplets burst and release steam, which causes sputtering. Let the fuel burn off during use, or top up with fresh Tenderfuel and pour a little over the wick.
Does Tenderflame produce smoke or odour?
Tenderfuel burns without smoke or odour. If you notice a smell, check for spillage and ventilate the room as advised.
What if the flame does not go out the first time?
Place the snuffer over the wick again and wait. We advise leaving the snuffer on the wick until the next time you use the fireplace.
Calmer indoor flames with Tenderfuel
Discover how the steel wick and Tenderfuel together create a controlled, clean flame without a chimney. Choose the model that fits your interior and rhythm.
