A fireplace adds to the beauty and comfort of a home. Providing natural warmth, it is an excellent source of relaxation and calming. Moreover, fireplaces give an extra touch of architectural vitality, thereby increasing the value of your house. Whether you have a traditional or modern fireplace, a regular cleaning routine is required for its long-term functioning. If you don’t maintain your fireplace, soot, ash, and debris will enter your house. National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspections or fireplace cleaning and maintenance.
Follow the wooden fireplace cleaning tips to reduce dust and particles in the air, clear smoky aromas, and lower the risk of fire damage.
- Let the fresh fire soot cool down and settle and wait for at least 12 hours after your last fire.
- Cover the furniture using trash bags and old sheets, which also protect the environment.
- Wear old clothes, gloves, and a mask to protect yourself from carcinogenic dust.
- Take a small shovel to collect the ash and duct in a dustpan. Now, remove andirons, grate, and dust it off to remove the remaining ash with a deep cleaner using a water-dampened scrub.
- Now, use a stiff bristle brush and cleaning solution to clean the fireplace from the inside. Sweep the wall properly to remove creosote. You can use a vacuum cleaner for precise cleaning.
- Using a pumice stone bathed in dish soap can work effectively to clean the bricks on a fireplace. Use a trisodium phosphate cleaner to remove stubborn soot streaks.
- Scrub the fireplace floor using a cleaning solution. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then use old rags to wipe it off the walls and floor.
- If your fireplace has glass doors, mix equal portions of white vinegar and water in a new spray bottle. Spray the vinegar solution on the glass doors and several folded paper towels. Scrub the doors gently and then repeat the process with new paper towels.
- Allow enough time for the walls and floor of your fireplace to dry completely.
- You can use dish soap and water to clean the andirons and equipment. If desired, apply a coat of metal polish for further enhancement.
- Make sure you do not scrub overzealously as it could harm the surface. Some stains might not go away, but that is fine. Consult experts for fireplace repair in Sacramento.
Conclusion
Follow these ways to clean the fireplace to maintain its proper functioning. Look for a professional fireplace cleaner when arranging a cleaning and inspection schedule. Experts know the ins and outs of fireplace cleaning while ensuring safety. Always start by covering the surrounding area with an old cloth or a plastic tarp. In addition, remove furniture and carpets to keep them from dust and soot. Also, keep a garbage bag or a bucket handy to dump all the ash and dust while cleaning. Most importantly, wear cleaning gloves, eye protection, and a face mask for safety.