Ammonia can work well as a cleaner, but may be harsher on brick fireplaces. Oven cleaner can be applied to a fireplace. It can work well if there’s a lot of built up burnt material in your fireplace. Browse your local hardware store for cleaners made for fireplaces. These may be less harsh on your fireplace. Fireplace cleaners, like Quick n’ Brite for example, may need to be diluted prior to use, so be sure to read instructions.
You can combine 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of cream of tartar with water to make a quality homemade cleaner. You can also mix equal parts vinegar and water for a cleaner. Put the cleaner in a spray bottle to apply it. Mix 2–3 tablespoons (30–44 mL) of dish soap with ½ cup (260 g) of baking soda. Work this into a paste for a quality homemade cleaner.
If you’re using a store bought cleaner, make sure the cleaner you choose does not interact negatively with your all purpose spray.
Check the pet aisle. Oftentimes, small brooms and dustpans are sold to clean up cat litter. This could work for cleaning a fireplace.
You can buy such products at most supermarkets and department stores.
If you don’t have a tarp, try using old clothes or towels you no longer use. Make sure it’s material you are not attached to, as it will likely get ruined during the cleaning process. Ensure your room is ventilated well.
If there is any wood that is salvageable, set this aside for later. You may have to use a vacuum to suck up very loose debris.
It can help to sprinkle coffee grounds over the ashes first. This can give them a more solid texture, preventing ashes from scattering in the air. Sweep off the doorway to the chimney as well, as this is likely dusted with ash as well.
Make sure to get the entire inside of the fireplace wet before proceeding.
Do not scrub too hard, as your brush is already abrasive. Use circular motions to apply until the fireplace is completely covered. If there are hard-to-reach cracks in your fireplace, use a toothbrush to clean these areas.
If you’re using a store-bought cleaner, read the label carefully. There may be specific instructions on how long to let the cleaner sit.
Wet a cloth under warm or hot tap water. Buff the stain away. It should come off fairly easily. Usually, after this the process will be complete. However, for very stained or damaged fireplaces, you may need to do a second cleaning, or even a third.
Make sure any wood you buy is dry or seasoned. If the wood is not labeled, ask someone at the place where you’re purchasing the wood.
Call emergency services immediately if a fire starts in your home. Even if you think you have a fire under control, professional firefighters should examine your home to make sure the fire is completely out.
