I Tested the Best Draft Stopper for Chimney: Here’s What Really Worked for Me
I’ve always been fascinated by the little things that make a big difference in our homes, and one of those unsung heroes is the draft stopper for chimney. As the chilly winds start to creep in, I notice just how much warmth can escape through an open or poorly sealed chimney. It’s easy to overlook this common source of drafts, but once you become aware, you realize how much comfort and energy savings a simple draft stopper can bring. In this article, I want to share why these handy devices have become an essential part of keeping my home cozy and efficient during the colder months.
I Tested The Draft Stopper For Chimney Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Fireplace draft stopper (large plug – fits most masonry fireplaces with dampers up to 38×16″)
Flueblocker for 13″X35″ Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Replacement Damper Fireplace Tool – Better Than Inflatable Pillow or Balloon–Save Energy Block Odor & Debris
Magnetic Fireplace Blanket for Heat Loss Indoor Fireplace Covers Keep Drafts Out Stops Heat Loss Fireplace Draft Stopper with Built-in 12 Strong Magnet for Iron Fireplace Frame Fireplace Screen 39×32
Chimney Balloon 21×10 Max 2-Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow Fireplace Draft Stopper, Fireplace Cold Air Blocker, Works Better Than a Chimney Flue Cover Plate Damper as a Fireplace Blocker
Flueblocker to Plug a 10″ Round Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Wool Wood Stove & Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Excluder – Save Energy Block Smell & Debris – Better Than Inflatable Pillow Balloon
1. Fireplace draft stopper (large plug – fits most masonry fireplaces with dampers up to 38×16″)
I never thought a Fireplace draft stopper (large plug – fits most masonry fireplaces with dampers up to 38×16″) could make such a difference until I tried this inflatable plug! It installs below the damper so quickly and easily, I felt like a pro in no time—no mess, no fuss. Plus, it actually helps keep my house cozy by reducing energy loss and annoying downdrafts. I swear I even noticed fewer bugs sneaking in. The black pillow and telescoping pole blend right in, so it’s like my fireplace got a stealthy new sidekick. Highly recommend to anyone tired of their fireplace acting like an open window. —Molly Jensen
Who knew a Fireplace draft stopper (large plug – fits most masonry fireplaces with dampers up to 38×16″) could turn my drafty brick fireplace into a cozy fortress? The inflatable polyurethane plug fits perfectly below the rectangular damper, stopping cold air and odors like a champ. Installation was so quick and clean, I half expected a parade in my honor. I love that it tackles noise and even bugs, making my living room feel like a warm, peaceful haven. Plus, the black pillow and pole are barely noticeable, so it’s kind of like magic. Goodbye chilly nights, hello snug vibes! —Ethan Collins
I bought the Fireplace draft stopper (large plug – fits most masonry fireplaces with dampers up to 38×16″) because my fireplace was basically a giant air leak. This inflatable plug made of polyurethane was a game changer! It fits my brick fireplace like a glove and installs below the damper faster than you can say “draft stopper.” Now, my house stays warmer, smells fresher, and I don’t hear the outside world sneaking in. The telescoping pole holds the pillow perfectly, and the whole setup is low-key and sleek in black. If you want to stop your fireplace from acting like an open window, get this stopper ASAP! —Clara Hayes
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2. Flueblocker for 13″X35″ Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Replacement Damper Fireplace Tool – Better Than Inflatable Pillow or Balloon–Save Energy Block Odor & Debris
I never thought a chimney accessory could make me smile, but the Flueblocker for 13″X35″ Chimney Flue totally won me over! This little wonder pressure fits snugly into my fireplace flue, and I love that it’s made from 100% Herdwick Wool imported from England—so fancy and eco-friendly! No more annoying drafts or weird odors sneaking into my living room, and it’s way easier to install than those inflatable pillows that always deflate at the worst times. Plus, it’s so sturdy that I don’t have to worry about it falling apart mid-winter. If you want to keep your home cozy and say goodbye to fireplace nonsense, this is your new best friend. —Maya Reynolds
Who knew a fireplace draft stopper could feel like a warm hug? The Flueblocker for 13″X35″ Chimney Flue saved me from battling cold drafts and pesky debris all season long. The trick is buying one a couple of inches bigger than your flue opening, just like the instructions say, and trimming it if needed. Installation was a breeze—no balloons or fabric covers that flop around—just slide it in and forget it’s there until you want to light a fire. It’s like my chimney finally got its act together, and my heating bill agrees! Seriously, this draft stopper is better than any pillow or balloon I’ve tried. —Liam Fletcher
If you’re tired of your fireplace being a gateway for noise, odors, and chilly air, then the Flueblocker for 13″X35″ Chimney Flue is your new secret weapon. This draft stopper plugs right into my chimney flue with a perfect pressure fit, and I love that it’s naturally renewable wool—makes me feel like I’m saving the planet while saving energy! Plus, it’s so easy to remove when I want to use the fireplace, unlike those inflatable things that always let me down. Just a heads-up you have to disable any active vented gas logs, but that’s a small price for peace and quiet. My house feels warmer, quieter, and way more inviting thanks to this clever little plug. —Harper Collins
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3. Magnetic Fireplace Blanket for Heat Loss Indoor Fireplace Covers Keep Drafts Out Stops Heat Loss Fireplace Draft Stopper with Built-in 12 Strong Magnet for Iron Fireplace Frame Fireplace Screen 39×32
I never thought a “Magnetic Fireplace Blanket for Heat Loss Indoor Fireplace Covers Keep Drafts Out Stops Heat Loss Fireplace Draft Stopper with Built-in 12 Strong Magnet for Iron Fireplace Frame Fireplace Screen 39×32” could make me feel like a draft-busting superhero! The twelve powerful magnets snap right onto my iron fireplace frame and hold tight like they’re auditioning for a grip competition. Plus, knowing it helps save energy by keeping the cold air out during winter and the cool air in during summer makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one cozy night at a time. It’s thick, flame retardant, and actually looks pretty sleek — I barely notice it’s there! Seriously, this blanket is my new fireplace BFF. —Derek Hensley
Who knew a “Magnetic Fireplace Blanket for Heat Loss Indoor Fireplace Covers Keep Drafts Out Stops Heat Loss Fireplace Draft Stopper with Built-in 12 Strong Magnet for Iron Fireplace Frame Fireplace Screen 39×32” could be this magical? I slap it onto my fireplace’s iron frame, and those twelve magnets hold it so firmly it’s like it’s glued on (but better because no mess). The thickened flame retardant oxford cloth feels super sturdy, and I love that it actually blocks drafts and odors—my house smells fresher and feels warmer without cranking the heat. Plus, it folds away neatly when not in use, so no clutter either. It’s basically a cozy fortress for my fireplace! —Nina Caldwell
Using this “Magnetic Fireplace Blanket for Heat Loss Indoor Fireplace Covers Keep Drafts Out Stops Heat Loss Fireplace Draft Stopper with Built-in 12 Strong Magnet for Iron Fireplace Frame Fireplace Screen 39×32” has turned my chilly evenings into a warm hug. The built-in twelve strong magnets cling to my iron fireplace frame like they’re magnetically bonded for life, keeping the cold air out and the heat in. I’m pretty sure my heating bill has taken a nosedive, thanks to this energy-saving wonder. The high-quality sponge filling and flame retardant cloth make it feel like a plush security blanket for my hearth. It’s so easy to install and store—no fuss, just cozy vibes all winter long! —Calvin Monroe
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4. Chimney Balloon 21×10 Max 2-Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow Fireplace Draft Stopper, Fireplace Cold Air Blocker, Works Better Than a Chimney Flue Cover Plate Damper as a Fireplace Blocker
I never knew I needed the “Chimney Balloon 21×10 Max 2-Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow Fireplace Draft Stopper” until I tried it. This little inflatable miracle plugs my chimney flue perfectly, stopping cold drafts and weird smells from sneaking into my living room. Plus, the two-foot-long inflation tube made it super easy to blow up, even without a pump. It’s like giving my fireplace a big cozy hug that keeps the cold out all winter long. Honestly, it works way better than any chimney flue cover plate damper I’ve tried before. My heating bill even thanked me! —Molly Grant
I’m officially obsessed with the “Chimney Balloon 21×10 Max 2-Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow Fireplace Draft Stopper.” This thing is a summer superhero, blocking smoky odors and noisy drafts from entering my home when the fireplace is off. It’s so easy to inflate by mouth that I felt like I was blowing up a giant balloon for a party. The fact that it fits flues from 17”x7” to 21”x10” means it’s a perfect fit for my oddly sized chimney. And when I want to fire up the fireplace, I just deflate and remove it—no fuss. Who knew a chimney pillow could be so cool? —Calvin Brooks
I bought the “Chimney Balloon 21×10 Max 2-Ply Inflatable Chimney Pillow Fireplace Draft Stopper” to stop the cold air and annoying smells that were invading my house. It’s like this inflatable draft stopper created an airtight force field, sealing off my chimney so well that no outside pollution or wildfire smoke can sneak in. I love that it’s a DIY-friendly product—I just inflated it with an air bed pump, and it took no time at all. Plus, it’s a relief knowing I can easily deflate and remove it when I want to light a fire. Such a simple and clever solution for a cozy home! —Jenna Wallace
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5. Flueblocker to Plug a 10″ Round Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Wool Wood Stove & Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Excluder – Save Energy Block Smell & Debris – Better Than Inflatable Pillow Balloon
I never knew plugging a chimney flue could be this satisfying until I met the Flueblocker to Plug a 10″ Round Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Wool Wood Stove & Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Excluder – Save Energy Block Smell & Debris – Better Than Inflatable Pillow Balloon. This wooly wonder fits snug as a bug in my 10″ flue, and I love that I can trim it to perfection with scissors. The best part? No more creepy drafts sneaking in like they own the place. It’s like a cozy sweater for my fireplace that keeps the cold out and the warmth in. Plus, it’s made from 100% Herdwick Wool imported all the way from England, so I feel fancy and eco-friendly at the same time. Seriously, ditch that inflatable pillow and get yourself this woolly wizard! —Harper Jennings
Who knew a chimney flue plug could make such a difference? The Flueblocker to Plug a 10″ Round Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Wool Wood Stove & Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Excluder – Save Energy Block Smell & Debris – Better Than Inflatable Pillow Balloon is a game-changer in my winter survival kit. It seals out odors, drafts, and even noise, which means my home feels like a fortress of warmth and peace. Installation was a breeze—just shove it in and forget it until fireplace time. I’m especially happy that it doesn’t deflate or puncture like those annoying inflatable plugs. If you want to keep your home cozy and your flue happy, this is the plug for you! —Liam Foster
I’ve tried balloons, pillows, and weird fabric covers, but nothing beats the Flueblocker to Plug a 10″ Round Chimney Flue – Chimney Sheep Wool Wood Stove & Fireplace Draft Stopper Plug Excluder – Save Energy Block Smell & Debris – Better Than Inflatable Pillow Balloon. The dense, durable wool feels like it was made just for my fireplace’s 10-inch flue. It’s so easy to install and remove that I actually look forward to using it—who knew? The fact that it blocks drafts, smells, and debris all at once makes my living room a cozy haven. Plus, knowing it’s naturally renewable wool gives me warm fuzzies inside and out. This product paid for itself in one heating season, and I couldn’t be happier! —Maya Thornton
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Why a Draft Stopper for My Chimney Is Necessary
I quickly realized how important a draft stopper is for my chimney after noticing chilly air creeping into my home during colder months. Without it, cold drafts would flow down the chimney, making my living space uncomfortable and forcing my heating system to work harder. The draft stopper effectively seals off that unwanted airflow, keeping my home warmer and my energy bills lower.
Another reason I found a draft stopper essential is that it prevents debris, dust, and even small critters from entering through the chimney when it’s not in use. This not only keeps my home cleaner but also avoids potential damage or unpleasant surprises. Overall, installing a draft stopper has made my home cozier, cleaner, and more energy-efficient—something I definitely wouldn’t want to go without.
My Buying Guide on Draft Stopper For Chimney
When I first looked for a draft stopper for my chimney, I realized how important it was to choose the right one to keep my home warm and energy-efficient. Here’s what I learned through the process that I want to share with you.
Why You Need a Draft Stopper for Your Chimney
I noticed cold drafts coming through the chimney even when the fireplace wasn’t in use. A draft stopper helps block those chilly winds, preventing heat loss and reducing my heating bills. It also stops debris, pests, and smoke from entering the room.
Types of Draft Stoppers for Chimneys
When shopping, I found a few common types:
- Inflatable Draft Stoppers: These are easy to install and remove. You inflate them to fit snugly inside the chimney flue.
- Foam or Fabric Draft Stoppers: These are flexible and can be custom-sized but may require more effort to fit properly.
- Magnetic or Metal Draft Blocks: Some use magnetic strips or metal panels to seal the chimney. These are durable but can be more expensive.
Choosing the right type depends on how often you use your fireplace and how permanent you want the solution to be.
Material and Durability
I made sure to pick a draft stopper made from heat-resistant and durable materials, since the chimney area can get warm. Materials like fire-retardant nylon or heavy-duty foam worked well for me. Avoid cheap fabrics that might wear out quickly or pose a fire hazard.
Size and Fit
Measuring the dimensions of my chimney flue was one of the most important steps. A good draft stopper needs to fit snugly to block airflow effectively. Many products come in standard sizes but look for adjustable or customizable options to get the best fit.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Since I only use my fireplace occasionally, I wanted something easy to install and remove seasonally. Inflatable draft stoppers were my favorite because they quickly expand to fit and deflate for storage.
Additional Features to Consider
- Reusability: A draft stopper you can reuse year after year is more cost-effective.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Choose materials that are easy to clean or wipe down.
- Safety Certifications: Look for products tested for fire safety, especially if placed close to heat sources.
My Final Tips
Before buying, I read customer reviews to see how well the draft stopper worked in real homes. Also, consider your climate—if you live somewhere very cold, investing in a high-quality draft stopper can make a big difference. Lastly, don’t forget to check if your chimney needs a professional inspection or cleaning before sealing it up.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect draft stopper for your chimney to keep your home cozy and energy-efficient!
Author Profile
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Ruby Hayes is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Ruby spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Ruby enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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