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Backflow incense burners

A backflow incense burner is a resin or ceramic ornament with a hole at the top and channels inside. Sit a backflow cone over the hole and, as it smoulders, the smoke flows down through the design instead of rising. Ours include dragons, a kraken, ponds, hands and a ceramic teapot. They suit anyone who likes incense and wants something to watch while it burns. Burners are sold without cones unless the product page says otherwise, so add a box of backflow cones.

How to choose a backflow burner

Start with the design. Most people pick a burner because they like how it looks, and that's a good way to choose. It will sit on a shelf as an ornament most of the time.

Check the size. Every product page lists real dimensions. Tall figure burners of around 17–18cm give a long fall and show the effect clearly. Compact burners under 10cm suit small shelves and desks. Pool and pond designs are low and wide.

Think about where it will go. Backflow smoke is only slightly heavier than air, so it needs a still spot away from radiators, open windows and fans. A shelf with a wall behind it often works well. Put a coaster or tray underneath, as some burners leave a light oily residue.

Resin or ceramic?

Most of our burners are resin or polyresin, which allows fine detail and painted or bronze-effect finishes. Clean them gently with a damp cloth and don't soak them. Our teapot burner is ceramic, with a smoother surface that's a little easier to clean. See how to clean a backflow incense burner.

Which cones suit which burner?

You need backflow cones, with a hollow channel and a hole in the base. Normal solid cones will burn but the smoke will rise.

The cone's hole must sit directly over the burner's hole. A cone typically burns for around 10–15 minutes, depending on size.

Guides to help

Incense produces smoke and fine particles. Burn it in a ventilated room, keep it away from children and pets, and never leave it unattended. Orders ship from a UK warehouse; see delivery and returns.

Questions people ask

How does a backflow incense burner work?

A backflow cone has a hollow channel. Smoke drawn down through it comes out of the base cooler and full of particles, so it is denser than the room air and sinks. The burner gives that smoke a path to flow along.

Do backflow incense burners come with cones?

Our burners are sold without cones unless the product page says otherwise. Add a box of backflow cones, which have a hole in the base. Normal solid cones won't flow down.

Why is the smoke from my backflow burner going up?

Usually a draught, a warm spot near a heater, a damp cone, a normal cone instead of a backflow one, or a blocked hole. Our troubleshooting guide walks through each cause.

How do you clean a backflow incense burner?

Once it is cold, wipe it with a cloth dampened in warm soapy water and clear the hole with a cotton bud or pipe cleaner. Be gentle with painted resin, don't soak it, and let it dry fully before use.