How to Remove Soot From a White Stone Fireplace

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Things You'll Need

  • Hand broom

  • Dust pan

  • Scrub brush

  • Spray bottle

  • Hot water

  • White vinegar

  • Lemon juice

  • Cleaning rags

White stone is a beautiful medium for a fireplace, but it certainly does show the dirt faster than pretty much any other facade. The best way to keep your white stone fireplace sparkling while still retaining its natural beauty is to use environmentally responsible cleaning resources. During the cold season when you use your fireplace regularly, clean it once a week so the soot does not build up and permanently stain the facade.

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Step 1

Sweep off the fireplace. Using a simple hand broom, make sure that all the dirt, soot and debris is removed. This will make your soot removal much easier. Sweep it into the dustpan and throw it away.

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Step 2

Mix your cleaning solution in the spray bottle. Shake up 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of hot water.

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Step 3

Scrub the fireplace. Spray the fireplace with the cleaning solution. Then scrub the stones and any exposed mortar with the scrub brush. Use firm pressure and circular motions. The soot should come up under the scrubbing and the stone will brighten thanks to the vinegar. However, any natural coloring in the stone will not bleach out.

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Step 4

Wipe down the fireplace with a combination of hot water and lemon juice. You can mix this in the same spray bottle after you empty out the vinegar solution. This will help lesson the vinegar smell and further brighten the stone. Just spray the mixture on the fireplace, then wipe it down with a damp cloth.

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Step 5

Dry the fireplace with a dry, clean rag. While you may not be able to remove all the moisture from the fireplace, you need to get as much as possible off the stone. This will prevent sitting or standing moisture from creating mold or mildew problems later.

Tip

If you have soot stains inside your fireplace, simply toss a handful of salt onto the flames one evening while you have a fire in it. The salt will loosen the soot and carry it up the chimney with the smoke.

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