Fireplace cleaning is easy with these simple tips and tricks. Regular cleaning keeps your fireplace looking and working at its best.
*Please note that cleaning your fireplace is an excellent idea before you paint.
If you enjoy before and afters, you might enjoy this furniture makeover.
You might want to get a chimney inspection; read more about it at the Chimney Safety Institute of America.
How to Clean a Fireplace
Cleaning a wood-burning fireplace can only be done when it has cooled completely.
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Prepare for Cleaning
The first step to cleaning a wood-burning fireplace is to remove the andirons or wood grate (rack).
Use a bucket to place any pieces of wood in it. Then sweep out any ash and debris with a whisk, broom, and dustpan. Next, use a vacuum and vacuum the face of the fireplace, then vacuum the inside of the firebox.
Fireplace Cleaning Supplies
- Fireplace cleaner (Quick N Brite)
- Sponge
- Scrub brush
- Bucket with warm water
- Gloves
- Drop cloth or old towels and rags
- Paper towels
- Fireplace shovel
- Whisk broom and dustpan
- Spray bottle with water
How to Clean a Fireplace Step by Step
Before you begin, read the cleaning solution’s directions.
We used a non-toxic cleaning gel which is perfect for indoor use.
The first step is to wipe down the dirty bricks with a sponge and water.
Next, apply the fireplace cleaning gel and scrub with the brush provided. This cleaner will remove soot, ash, creosote, and carbon deposits. However, you may need to repeat these steps for stubborn stains.
You will want to use old towels and rags to sop up excess water.
Use the scrub brush provided with the cleaner. However, use a stiff bristle brush if you did not receive a scrub brush.
To rinse the fireplace, you will want to place a drop cloth or old towels in the firebox and spray clean water on the cleaned bricks.
Fireplace Door Cleaning
You can use the same product and techniques to clean your fireplace door, but substitute the scrub brush for a rag to prevent scratching the glass door.
Painting the Wood Grate
Note: this cleaning product can be used for gas fireplaces as well.
You can use a garden hose to rinse it off. Also, you can paint it with fire-proof paint.
The brick was easy to clean, and if you do it regularly, your fireplace will look great for years.
See you soon,
Kippi
Ps. You can find this post on Between Naps on the Porch.
crochetceleriac
Monday 21st of July 2025
I especially appreciated the safety tips about ash disposal and vent inspection. Just tried it today and the fireplace looks brand new. deltarune
Emilia
Tuesday 4th of March 2025
When you have a fireplace and a variety of different floor coverings, it is especially important to choose the right vacuum cleaner model with different attachments that will definitely help you cope with everything. The type of vacuum cleaner is one of the key parameters on which almost everything depends. Including design features, power, functionality and, of course, price. I found a suitable option for myself - Tineco wet dry vacuum https://ca-store.tineco.com/ in this Canadian store. When choosing, it is important to consider two points: purpose and ease of use.