How to Clean Soot From Your Fireplace
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A fireplace can be a cozy addition to your home, but it can often leave soot on the surrounding bricks.
A fireplace can be a cozy addition to your home, but it can often leave soot (that black dust caused by burning wood logs) on the surrounding bricks. Soot can stain over time and may cause permanent damage to your fireplace and hearth. To avoid this, make sure to clean soot buildup periodically. Here are some tips on how to clean soot from your fireplace properly:
Vacuum the Ash
First, keep in mind that you should let any pile of ash cool for at least a few days before cleaning to avoid a fire hazard. Once the ash has completely cooled, scoop out the majority of the pile using a fireplace shovel. Then, go over the area with a wet/dry vacuum to really get it clean. Discard the pile of ash outside (preferably in a metal container), keeping it away from your home.
Make Glass Doors Sparkle
If your fireplace has glass doors, you can easily remove soot and make them shine with a solution of vinegar and water. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray onto the glass and wipe clean with a paper towel or microfiber cloth. If you find any areas of tough gunk that won't come off, use a razor blade to scrape it away. Then spritz with more vinegar solution and buff with the microfiber cloth until it shines.
Wash Soot Off The Fireplace
Removing soot off your fireplace takes a bit more work than the glass doors due to the porous nature of the brick. However, it's easier if you keep a few tricks in mind. First, squirt your fireplace with water. This will prevent your cleaning solution from soaking in to the brick. Then, spray on an all-purpose cleaner diluted with water or a foaming bathroom cleaner. Then go back over the brick with a damp cloth to remove the soot. Give extra dirty spots a little extra scrubbing. Rinse and wipe dry. For other stones (such as marble), use the same process, but with a mild dishwashing liquid instead of an all-purpose cleaner.
Erase Your Mantel
If you have soot on your panted mantel or hearth, you can quickly clean it using a dry cleaning sponge (such as Mr. Clean Magic Eraser). Just rub in circles until the soot disappears. For extra stubborn stains, use a small amount of all-purpose cleaner diluted with water on a microfiber cloth. Scrub until the stain goes away and rinse with water.
Schedule a Chimney Checkup
Once you have cleaned your fireplace until it gleams, remember to schedule your annual chimney checkup with a professional chimney company. While you can clean the soot on the outside of your fireplace, only a professional can keep the inside of your chimney clean and clear of obstruction. Not only will this preserve the life of your fireplace, it can also prevent a fire hazard. When looking for a professional chimney company, make sure to choose one certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Check Angie's List for reviews and recommendations for chimney sweeps in your area.