How to Clean Fireplace Brick or Stone Stained by Smoke & Creosote

Don't call a professional ... clean the black smoke fireplace stain yourself.

You love to cozy up in front of your fireplace in cool weather, but over time, stains can appear on the brick or stone over the fire. You don't have to hire someone to clean up the smokey mess. With a little elbow grease, you can make it as good as new. It's so easy, you won't mind lighting up the fireplace a few more times before warm weather comes to town.

Things You'll Need

• Whitewall tire cleaner
• Stiff brush
• Clean cloth
• Bucket
• White vinegar

Instructions

1. Spray automobile whitewall tire cleaner onto the brick or stone. Allow it to sit for 2 or 3 minutes to work itself in.

2. Use a firm bristled brush to scrub the stained areas. Use a steady pressure in a circular motion for best results.

3. In a small bucket, mix 1 part vinegar per 2 parts water.

4. Wipe up the tire cleaner with the vinegar water and an old towel or cotton t-shirt.

5. Repeat the process if you have a particularly difficult build-up of smoke and creosote on your fireplace brick or stone.

Tips & Warnings

• Use this method to clean glass fireplace doors -- just use a soft bristle brush rather than a stiff one.

References

• Brick-Anew: Cleaning Brick Fireplaces