How to Clean Inside of Fireplace Brick – Cleaning the inside of fireplace bricks can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and materials, you can restore your fireplace to its original beauty.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need on how to clean inside of fireplace brick, including various methods, supplies, and tips and tricks to get the job done effectively and efficiently.
How to Clean Inside of Fireplace Brick
Whether you use your fireplace for warmth during cold winter months or simply for its aesthetic appeal, maintaining a clean fireplace is essential for both the appearance and safety of your home.
Learning how to clean inside of fireplace brick can help you avoid potential fire hazards, improve the efficiency of your fireplace, and enhance the overall look of your living space.
1. Importance of Regular Fireplace Cleaning
Regular cleaning of your fireplace is crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: Over time, soot, ash, and creosote can accumulate on the inside of fireplace bricks. These substances are highly flammable and can pose a fire hazard if not properly removed.
- Efficiency: A clean fireplace allows for better airflow and heat distribution, ensuring that your fireplace operates at optimal efficiency.
- Appearance: Cleaning the inside of fireplace brick helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of your fireplace, enhancing the overall appearance of your home.
2. Supplies and Tools for Fireplace Cleaning
Before you begin cleaning the inside of your fireplace brick, you’ll need to gather the necessary supplies and tools.
Here’s a list of the items you’ll need:
- Spray bottle
- White vinegar
- Borax
- Dawn dish soap or another brand
- Salt
- Ammonia
- Baking soda
- Scrub brush with stiff bristles
- Cloth or rags
- Protective gloves and goggles (if using ammonia)
3. Cleaning Methods
There are several methods to choose from when deciding how to clean inside of fireplace brick.
The method you choose will depend on the severity of the buildup and the type of bricks in your fireplace.
Below are five effective methods for cleaning fireplace bricks.
A. Soap, Salt, and Baking Soda
Using soap, salt, or baking soda is a simple and cost-effective way to clean fireplace bricks. This method is safe for both the environment and your bricks.
To clean your fireplace using this method, follow these steps:
- Mix equal parts Dawn dish soap and table salt or baking soda with enough water to create a creamy consistency.
- Apply the mixture to the fireplace bricks using a cloth or dish towel.
- Allow the mixture to sit for approximately 10 minutes.
- Use a stiff-bristled scrub brush to scrub the bricks in a circular motion, working from the top down.
- Spray water on the solution to enhance its scrubbing action.
- Rinse the bricks with water and wipe them clean with a cloth or rag.
- Repeat the process if necessary.
B. Borax
If the soap, salt, and baking soda method isn’t sufficiently cleaning your fireplace bricks, you may want to try using borax.
To clean your fireplace with borax, follow these steps:
- In a spray bottle, combine 2 tablespoons of borax, a squirt of Dawn dish soap, and 4 cups of hot water.
- Shake the mixture well and spray it onto the fireplace bricks.
- Use a stiff-bristled scrub brush to scrub the bricks in a circular motion.
- Wipe away the grime with a cloth or rag, then rinse the bricks with water.
- Repeat the process as necessary.
C. Vinegar
Vinegar is an effective cleaning agent for fireplace bricks due to its acidic nature, which helps break down buildup.
However, if your bricks are 20 years or older, vinegar may not be the best cleaning method.
To clean your fireplace with vinegar, follow these steps:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Thoroughly spray the inside of the fireplace bricks, then spray the outside.
- Allow the vinegar solution to sit for 2-5 minutes.
- Spray the bricks again.
- Scrub the bricks with a stiff-bristled brush in a circular motion, working from the outside in.
- If necessary, add a little Dawn dish soap to the vinegar mixture for extra scrubbing power.
- Rinse the bricks with water and wipe them clean with a cloth or rag.
- Repeat the process as necessary.
- To neutralize the acidity of the vinegar, mix a few tablespoons of baking soda and water in a spray bottle, then spray the bricks and let them dry.
D. Ammonia
For particularly stubborn buildup on newer bricks, ammonia can be an effective cleaning solution.
However, ammonia is a potent chemical, so be sure to open windows and doors to ensure proper ventilation.
Wear protective gloves and goggles for added safety. To clean your fireplace with ammonia, follow these steps:
- In a spray bottle, mix ⅓ cup of ammonia, ¼ cup of Dawn dish soap, and 4 cups of hot water.
- Spray the mixture onto the fireplace bricks.
- Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes.
- Wet your stiff-bristled scrub brush and scrub the bricks in a circular motion.
- Rinse the bricks with water and repeat the process as necessary.
Note: Do not use ammonia on old or brittle bricks, as it may cause damage.
E. Scrubbing Bubbles
Scrubbing Bubbles, a popular bathroom cleaner, can also be used to clean fireplace bricks.
To use Scrubbing Bubbles to clean your fireplace, follow these steps:
- Spray Scrubbing Bubbles onto the fireplace bricks.
- Allow the cleaner to sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Dip your scrub brush in water and scrub the bricks.
- Use a cloth or rag to wipe, rinse, and dry the bricks.
4. Spot Cleaning and Removing Tough Stains
If your fireplace bricks have particularly stubborn stains or spots, you can try the following techniques:
- Combine a few tablespoons of cream of tartar and water to create a paste, then apply it to the affected area. Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a stiff-bristled brush and rinsing with water.
- Prior to cleaning, sprinkle a few tablespoons of salt onto the fire to help loosen soot and creosote.
- Mix Dawn dish soap and baking soda to create a paste, then use it to clean detailed brickwork.
- For older bricks, begin with the least abrasive cleaning method and work your way up as needed.
5. Safety Precautions
When cleaning the inside of fireplace brick, it’s essential to take the necessary safety precautions to protect yourself and your home.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Always wear protective gloves and goggles when using harsh chemicals, such as ammonia.
- Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors when using potent cleaning solutions.
- Test a small, inconspicuous area of your fireplace bricks before applying any cleaning solution to the entire surface, especially if you’re unsure how the bricks will react to the cleaner.
Tips and Tricks for Efficient Fireplace Cleaning
To make the process of cleaning your fireplace bricks as efficient as possible, consider the following tips and tricks:
- Use a sturdy, stiff-bristled brush for scrubbing the bricks.
- Work from the top down to prevent dirt and debris from falling onto clean areas.
- Clean the fireplace grate and any other removable components separately.
- Place a drop cloth or tarp beneath the fireplace opening to catch debris and make cleanup easier.
Maintaining a Clean Fireplace
To keep your fireplace looking its best and functioning efficiently, it’s essential to clean it regularly.
At a minimum, aim to clean your fireplace at least twice per year. In addition to routine cleanings, it’s also important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep annually.
Professional Fireplace Cleaning Services
If you’re unable or unwilling to clean the inside of your fireplace brick yourself, consider hiring a professional fireplace cleaning service.
A professional cleaner will have the expertise and equipment necessary to thoroughly clean your fireplace and ensure its safe operation.
When choosing a fireplace cleaning service, be sure to select a reputable company with positive reviews and references.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean inside of fireplace brick is an essential skill for maintaining the safety, efficiency, and appearance of your fireplace.
With the proper supplies and techniques, you can effectively clean your fireplace bricks and enjoy the warmth and beauty of your fireplace for years to come.
Remember to practice safety precautions and maintain a regular cleaning schedule to keep your fireplace in optimal condition.
Shery
