Pizza oven accessories you actually need

The essentials

These are the accessories that make pizza easier, safer and more consistent from the first session.

Peels

A launching peel is the one tool you cannot do without. Many ovens include one; check the box. Choose a blade a little wider than your largest pizza. Our wooden vs metal pizza peel and pizza peel sizes explained articles help you choose.

A turning peel is a small, round metal peel on a long handle. In most portable ovens, where the flame is at the back or side, it is the difference between an even rim and a burnt one. See how to use a turning peel. If your oven has a rotating stone, you may not need one; see do rotating stone pizza ovens work.

Thermometer and brush

An infrared thermometer tells you the stone temperature, which is what cooks the base. Built-in dials usually read the air or dome. A gun that reads to at least 500°C removes most of the guesswork. See how to use an infrared thermometer.

A stiff brush with a long handle clears ash, burnt flour and crumbs from a hot or cool stone. Brass bristles are common because they are softer than steel. Keep it for the oven only. More on cleaning in how to clean a pizza stone.

Cover, stand and gloves

A fitted cover keeps rain out of the oven and off the stone. A wet stone can crack when heated, and moisture harms burners and igniters. Covers are usually model specific. See storing a pizza oven over winter.

A stable, heat-tolerant table or stand at a comfortable height makes launching easier and safer. See pizza oven tables and stands. Heat-resistant gloves let you adjust a hot oven, move a door or handle a pan safely.

Fuel-specific extras

Gas ovens need a propane bottle, the right UK regulator and hose; some ovens include the regulator and hose, others do not. See what gas a pizza oven needs. Wood and charcoal ovens need kiln-dried hardwood or lumpwood, natural firelighters, a small metal poker and a metal ash bucket. Pellet ovens need dry cooking pellets in a sealed bin.

Note:Store gas bottles upright, outdoors and away from heat. Empty ash only when completely cold, into a metal container.

Nice to have later

Once you cook regularly, these can be worth adding: a cast iron pan or skillet for steak, vegetables and pan pizza; a dough box or lidded tray for proving dough balls; a bench scraper and a digital scale for dough; a pizza cutter or rocker; and a dough mixer if you make big batches.

Bundles that include several of these can save effort, but check you will actually use them. Our what else can you cook in a pizza oven article shows where a pan earns its place.

Accessories included with ovens

Many ovens in our guides include some essentials. The Mimiuo ovens list a peel and cover, the DeliVita Diavolo bundle includes a carry case and infrared gun, and the Ninja Artisan includes a stone, perforated peel, tray and air fry basket. Comparing what is in the box can make a cheaper oven better value.

See best outdoor pizza ovens, best gas pizza ovens and best portable pizza ovens.

Frequently asked questions

What accessories do I need for a Gozney or Ooni? A launching peel, turning peel, infrared thermometer, cover and brush cover most needs. Covers and stands are model specific.

Is an infrared thermometer necessary? Not essential, but it is the quickest way to stop burnt or pale bases.

Do I need a pizza oven stand? You need a stable, heat-tolerant surface at a good height. A stand is one option; a sturdy outdoor table is another.

Are brand-name accessories better? Peels, gloves and thermometers are interchangeable. Covers, stones and burners should match your oven model.