Things You'll Need:
- Razor blade
- Sponge
- Vinegar
- Toothbrush
- Worcestershire sauce
- Lemon oil
- Soft bristled brush
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Step 1
Open the damper before removing ash from the fireplace to prevent it from flying out into your home.
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Step 2
Clean the firebox one or two times weekly during the months that it's in use. When cleaning, leave about an inch of ash inside; it acts as insulation to allow the coals to heat up quickly and retain heat. During the months it's not in use, clean it completely.
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Step 3
Keep the screen closed while the fire is burning to prevent hot ashes from landing on your carpet. Non-flammable rugs are recommended (see Resources below).
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Step 4
Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep at least once a year.
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Step 5
Place a chimney cap on the top of your chimney to prevent water damage, nesting animals and debris that may block the chimney. Blockages can cause dangerous carbon monoxide to flow into your home.
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Step 6
Allow the glass doors on your fireplace (if you have them) to cool after using the fireplace and scrape off build-up with a razor blade. Remove remaining dirt and stains with vinegar and water (sponge on).
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Step 7
Use a toothbrush and Worcestershire sauce to clean and shine brass fireplace tools.
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Step 8
Clean exterior slate hearths with lemon oil once every one to two months. Brick fireplaces can be cleaned with brick cleaner (see Resources below).
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Step 9
Clean gas logs with a soft bristled brush once a month. Always wait until they've cooled down before cleaning.
