The CampStove is designed for clean combustion, but all woods burned in the stove will create some soot. Pitchy pine will create the most, and hardwoods like maple will create the least. The best way to minimize soot is to let the fire become well-established and hot before putting on a pot. Any soot on the pot can be wiped off with a moist rag.

To make cleaning up even easier, you can use the campfire trick of soaping up the bottoms of your pans. Use a bar of soap and a little water to get your hands soapy, and then smear them on the bottom of your pot or pan before cooking. As you cook, the bottom will turn black, but will rinse off easily under water when you’re done.