There’s nothing quite so cozy as a crackling fire on a winter’s night. But after you’ve snuggled up around all those beautiful fires, it’s time for some deserved TLC for your fireplace! A dirty fireplace is not just ugly—-but dangerous to your health. Don’t worry, though! With a bit of effort and the right tools, a shining, new-looking fireplace is practically yours. Give this a try:
Tools and Materials Needed
Have the following requirements ready before you start:
- A brush with stiff bristles
- A bucket and a small shovel
- HEPA filter vacuum (or shop vac)
- Fireplace cleaner or warm water and vinegar solution
- Microfiber cloths
- Newspaper or tarp (to protect flooring)
- Gloves and dust mask
- Baking soda and dish soap (for tough stains)
How to Clean the Firebox (Where the Fire Burns)
The firebox is where the magic—and the mess—occurs. Brush away the soot and ash with the following steps:
Step 1. Let Everything Cool Down
Don’t even consider cleaning until your fireplace is absolutely cool. Wait at least 12 hours after your last fire to prevent burns or fires that could start by accident.
Step 2. Remove Ash and Debris
Place a tarp or some newspaper on the floor in front of the fireplace to catch any debris that falls. Scoop out the ashes using a small shovel and put them in a metal bucket. Pro tip: Wood ash is wonderful for your garden!
Step 3. Clean the Firebox Walls
With a stiff-bristled brush, sweep off the soot and grime on the walls. For stubborn spots, make a paste of equal parts of water and baking soda. Spread it on the spots, leave for 10-15 minutes, and scrub.
Step 4. Vacuum the Remaining Dust
Vacuum loose ash and dust using a shop vac or a HEPA filter vacuum. Dampen a cloth and wipe the firebox to remove any remaining soot.
How to Clean Fireplace Doors
Glass doors will smear and become cloudy over time. Here’s how to make them shine again.
Step 1. Create a Homemade Cleaner
Mix equal parts warm water and vinegar in a spray bottle. If your doors are heavily sooted, add some dish soap to the mixture to loosen up the grime.
Step 2. Gently Scrub
Spray onto the glass and allow to sit for a few minutes. Wipe the glass in a circular motion using a microfiber cloth or crumpled newspaper (yes, trust us!).
Step 3. Wipe Dry
Wipe off any streaks left with a dry, clean cloth. Your glass doors will now sparkle!
How to Clean Fireplace Accessories and Tools
Your fireplace tools and accessories, such as grates and pokers, could also use some loving. Here’s how you clean them.
Step 1. Remove Loose Dust and Soot
Wipe loose soot or ash from your accessories and tools using a dry brush or cloth.
Step 2. Wash with Water and Soap
Mix dish soap with warm water. Use a sponge or brush to scrub the tools, focusing on areas with thick soot accumulation.
Step 3. Dry and Shine
Rinse the tools thoroughly and dry them immediately to prevent rust. If they look dull, apply a little vegetable oil to the metal to restore the shine.
Keep the Cozy Vibes Going!
Now that your fireplace looks brand new again, why not extend that fresh, clean feeling to the rest of your home? Our professional house cleaning services can keep your living space looking its best. Book with us today, and let’s make your home shine!
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