Cleaning your fireplace is a crucial part of ownership, contributing to safer operation and improved efficiency, but how exactly do you do it?

Here’s a quick rundown on how to prep and clean your fireplace effectively. From removing debris to scrubbing the grate, our step-by-step guide will leave your fireplace functioning at its best and looking great.

Cleaning Your Fireplace

Cleaning your fireplace is a labor-intensive process that requires persistence and time. With some elbow grease and dedication, the effort is well worth the reward of a clean and safe fireplace.  

Gather Your Supplies

You shouldn’t underestimate the kind of mess a fireplace can create. Ensuring you have the right tools to dispose of burned debris safely is the first step to cleaning your fireplace.

Your supply list should include:

• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Dropcloth
• Fireplace shovel
• Metal container for ashes
• Nylon brush
• Vacuum or hand brush and dustpan
• A damp cloth for wiping surfaces

Safety Precautions

The charred remains of your fires can leave soot and ash that can pose a hazard if left neglected and create quite a mess. Lay down a dropcloth to protect the surrounding area of your fireplace from being contaminated by the soot and debris. This will make for an easier cleanup. And don’t forget your safety glasses and gloves.

Now, on to cleaning. First, remove the grate and andirons from your fireplace and set them aside for further cleaning.

Ash Removal & Wall Cleaning

Using your fireplace shovel, scoop out the cooled ashes. Start from the center and work your way outward, ensuring that all the ashes are safely collected. It’s easy for ash to cloud up, potentially creating a mess in your living environment, so be careful not to stir up an ash storm in your home.

After you’ve collected the ashes, spread a newspaper or other disposal paper on the ground of your fireplace. Using a nylon brush, scrub the walls of your fireplace, removing soot and ash.

Clean The Grate & Andirons

It’s time to clean the grate and andirons. Begin by gently scrubbing the grate, paying close attention to any accumulated soot, ash, or debris. You’ll want to scrub them with the same nylon brush, rinse with water, and wipe dry.

Move on to the andirons, those decorative supports that elevate the logs within the fireplace. Focus on areas where residue gathers, removing the buildup of grime and debris.

How Often Should I Clean My Fireplace?

The frequency of cleaning should depend on a few factors, such as how often you use your fireplace, the type of wood you burn, and the overall condition of your system. However, we recommend having your fireplace professionally cleaned at least once a year.

If you use your fireplace more frequently in the winter and burn softwood that produces more creosote, more frequent cleanings can keep your fireplace safe and ready for regular everyday use.

Schedule Fireplace Cleaning Services With Chimney Scientists

Undertaking a full chimney and fireplace cleaning can be daunting, leaving homeowners without definitive answers about the state of their fireplace. At Chimney Scientists, our fireplace and chimney services are based on science and performed by CSIA-certified professionals.

As a highly rated company with excellent reviews from satisfied customers, we guarantee a seamless and detailed-oriented cleaning process that keeps your fireplace ready for cozy nights and worry-free operation.

Schedule fireplace cleaning services with Chimney Scientists by calling (610) 909-5585.