How to Clean a Fireplace Grate

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Cleaning the fireplace grate is one of the bigger drawbacks of owning a wood burning fireplace. Wait until spring when possible and move the grate outside for a good thorough cleaning. Wear old clothing that can get dirty, and slip on a sturdy pair of rubber gloves to keep your hands clean and protected.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

2 heavy tarps or pieces of plastic
Stiff wire brush
Old rags
Bucket
Warm water

Step1

Lay a tarp or piece of thick plastic out in front of the fireplace. Spread out a second tarp or piece of plastic outside if you are cleaning the grate outside.

Step2

Remove ashes and soot from the fireplace. Test the ashes to be sure they are completely cool before removing them from the fireplace.

Step3

Lift the fireplace grate out of the fireplace using both hands. Set the grate on the plastic. Wrap the grate in the plastic and take it outside, or clean the grate on this sheet.

Step4

Use a wire brush to scrub stubborn debris and soot off of the grate. Work over each area of the grate. Turn the grate upside down for ease of cleaning the underside.

Step5

Get an old cloth wet and ring out the excess water. Wipe the fireplace grate with the wet cloth to remove fine debris and ashes.

Step6

Rinse the cloth frequently while wiping the grate down. Change the water in the bucket if it becomes murky and gray.

Step7

Scrub the grate a second time to remove any debris missed on the first go round. Wipe the grate down with a clean cloth and water.