Brick Fireplace Soot Stain Removal

Without proper maintenance, the ash from the fireplace builds up on the brick, turning it a black shade. This soot is difficult to remove, but by using the right products, you will find the soot coming right off the brick.

Cleaning Solutions

You have several options at your disposal when it comes to cleaning the brick. Brick Anew recommends pressing modeling clay directly into the brick because, when you peel it away, it pulls off the soot. A combination of 6 tbsp. tri-sodium phosphate, 1 gallon cool water and 1 cup bleach is also sufficient, as is distilled white vinegar, depending on the amount of buildup.

Cleaning

Pour the liquid cleaning solution in a plastic bucket and dip a scrub brush in the solution. Rub the brush across the brick and then dip it into fresh water to rinse off the brush. Keep applying more cleaning solution and rinsing off the brush until you have removed the soot from the brick.

Warning

Always keep fresh water on hand to rinse out the brush and change out the cleaning solution liquid frequently. If you keep the same solution on hand, you will keep transferring more dirt onto the fireplace.

References

• Fireplace Mall: How to Clean Your Fireplace
• Brick Anew: Cleaning Brick Fireplaces
• Good Housekeeping: It's Time to Say So Long to Soot!