How to Clean a Fireplace With a Brush

A roaring fire in a fireplace often conjures up cozy, romantic feelings. Maybe that's why so many people enjoy having a fireplace in their home. Unfortunately, there's nothing cozy or romantic about cleaning a fireplace. Using a brush to clean your fireplace will help easily sweep out ash and debris from all those nooks and crannies.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stiff bristled scrub brush
• Rubber gloves
• Drop cloth
• Bucket or trash can
• Shovel
• Trash bags

1. Spread the drop cloth in front of the fireplace to catch any stray ashes that may come out while you are cleaning the fireplace. It is also a good place for you to kneel as you clean.

2. Wear rubber gloves to prevent soot and ash from getting all over your hands.

3. Remove the bulk of the ashes with a fireplace shovel. Scoop them all into a big pile in the center of the fireplace and then transfer to a bucket or trash can lined with two trash bags. An extra layer of trash bag in the bucket will reinforce the sack since the ashes will be heavy.

4. Brush the rest of the ashes and soot off the top and sides of the fireplace towards the center. Use a stiff bristled scrub brush to get into the tight places in the brick mortar.

5. Sweep the ashes you have brushed off the top, sides and bottom of the fireplace into a pile in the center of the fireplace.

6. Discard the debris by scooping it out with the fireplace shovel. You can get rid of the rest of the dirt using a vacuum.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear old clothes when cleaning the fireplace, since it is a messy job.
• Take care not to breathe in the dust and ashes while cleaning the fireplace. If necessary, wear a mask over your nose and mouth.