Tools and Materials
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The Importance of a Clean Fireplace
Everyone loves the warmth, charm and crackle of a wood-burning fireplace. Keeping it clean should be top of mind for anyone using a wood-burning fireplace. Over time, the buildup of soot, ashes and other debris poses a fire hazard, so it’s important that the fireplace is cleaned.
Ideally, the fireplace should be cleaned after each use, but sometimes that isn’t possible. The Chimney Institute of America recommends cleaning a fireplace when 1/8-inch of soot has built up in the fireplace. If you use your fireplace on a regular basis, you may find yourself cleaning it more often. If you only use your fireplace occasionally, clean it once a month or bi-monthly.
Removing Soot and Debris from your Fireplace
Before you begin cleaning your fireplace, dress for the occasion. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty. Also wear rubber gloves and a dust mask to avoid inhaling dust. To protect the floor and furniture, put a drop cloth or two on the floor and, depending on the proximity to the fireplace, on furniture to prevent damage.
Cleaning Your Fireplace
Deep Cleaning Your Fireplace
When you want to take your fireplace cleaning to the next level, give it a deep-clean. This step should be done after the cleaning process outlined above. You can make your own cleaning solution or purchase a commercial cleaner.
How to Deep Clean Your Fireplace
Cleaning Glass Fireplace Doors
Like the fireplace itself, glass fireplace doors also get soot-covered and dirty. Clean your glass doors with a simple and effective DIY solution using ingredients you may already have in your home. Below are two different methods for cleaning glass fireplace doors. If possible, remove the fireplace doors so that they’re easier to clean.
Before cleaning the fireplace doors, they’re easier to clean if you remove them. If they’re not removable, use caution when cleaning the glass doors.
If using a commercial cleaner, follow the label instructions.