Brick fireplaces are beautiful and timeless features in a home. However, they can also be quite dirty and stained if not properly cleaned and maintained. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide on how to clean a brick fireplace. We will answer some common questions, such as what supplies you will need, and provide helpful tips on how to get the job done quickly and effectively. Let’s get started!
Can You Clean The Soot Away From A Brick Fireplace?
One common question we get is whether or not it is possible to clean the soot away from a brick fireplace. The answer is yes! However, you will need to use the proper supplies and techniques in order to do so.
What is Creosote?
Creosote is a natural by-product of burning wood in your fireplace and it can build up on the inside of your chimney. If you don’t clean it out, it can eventually catch fire and damage your home.
There are a few different ways to clean creosote out of your chimney:
You can hire a professional chimney sweep to come and do it for you. This is probably the most effective way to get rid of all the creosote, but it can be expensive.
You can buy a Chimney Cleaning Log at your local hardware store. These logs are made of special chemicals that help break down the creosote as they burn.
You can make your own Chimney Cleaning Logs by soaking newspapers in a solution of water and Borax.
You can also try scrubbing the inside of your chimney with a stiff brush. This won’t get rid of all the creosote, but it can help to reduce the amount that builds up over time.
Once you’ve cleaned out the creosote, you should make sure to have your chimney inspected by a professional at least once a year. This will help to prevent any future build-up and keep your home safe.[3]
How Often to Clean Fireplace Bricks
You should clean your fireplace bricks at least once a year. However, if you use your fireplace frequently, you may need to clean it more often. Soot and smoke can build up on the bricks and cause them to discolor.[1]
There are a few things you can do to prevent soot and smoke from building up on your fireplace bricks:
- Use a fireguard: A fireguard is a screen that goes in front of the fireplace opening. It will help to keep sparks and embers from landing on the bricks.
- Burn only dry wood: Wet wood can produce more smoke than dry wood. If you must burn wet wood, make sure to open the damper all the way to help ventilate the smoke.
- Clean the chimney: A dirty chimney can cause soot and smoke to back up into the fireplace. Be sure to have your chimney cleaned at least once a year by a professional.
Before You Begin
Cleaning a brick fireplace is not a difficult task, but it is important to do it properly in order to avoid damaging the bricks. It is also important to make sure that you have the proper tools and materials before you begin. Here is a list of what you will need:
- A stiff brush
- A vacuum with a soft brush attachment
- Mild detergent
- Water
- White vinegar
- Baking soda[1]
Removing Ash and Soot
The first step is to remove all the ash and soot from the fireplace. This can be done with a vacuum cleaner or a brush. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to avoid breathing in the dust.
Once you have removed all the ash and soot, you will need to clean the bricks. You can do this with a brush or a power washer.
Next, you will need to apply a cleaners specifically designed for brick fireplaces. There are many different brands available, so be sure to read the labels carefully before purchasing one.[5]
Get the Bricks Wet
The second step to cleaning a brick fireplace is to get the bricks wet. You can do this by spraying them down with a hose or using a bucket of water and a sponge. Be sure to get all sides of the bricks wet.
Once the bricks are wet, you will need to let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or soot that may be on the surface of the bricks.[2]
How to Clean Bricks with Vinegar
Cleaning bricks with vinegar and water is a simple process. All you need is a bucket of warm water, some white vinegar, and a sponge. Start by dipping the sponge into the water and then wringing it out so that it’s damp but not dripping wet. Then, add a bit of vinegar to the sponge and start scrubbing at the dirt and grime on your fireplace. You may need to put some elbow grease into it, but eventually, the dirt should start to come off. Once you’re satisfied with how clean the bricks are, rinse them off with some clean water from your bucket. Allow them to air dry or wipe them down with a dry towel before moving on to the next step.[2]
How to Clean a Brick Fireplace with Scrubbing Bubbles
This is the product we recommend for cleaning your fireplace. You will need: a bucket, a scrub brush, gloves, and eye protection.
First, wet the bricks with clean water using a bucket and sponge. Next, apply Scrubbing Bubbles all over the bricks. Allow the product to sit on the bricks for five minutes. Then, use a scrub brush to scrub the fireplace clean. Finally, rinse the fireplace with clean water.
Repeat this process as necessary until your fireplace is clean!
How to Clean Bricks with Stronger Cleaners
If you have a brick fireplace that is particularly dirty, you may need to use a stronger cleaner. Be sure to spot test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area of the bricks before using it on the entire fireplace. To clean bricks with a stronger cleaner:
- Wet the bricks with water from a hose or bucket.
- Spray or brush on the cleaner.
- Scrub the bricks with a stiff brush.
- Rinse the bricks with clean water from a hose or bucket.
- Repeat as necessary until the bricks are clean.
Once you’ve finished cleaning your brick fireplace, be sure to protect it from future dirt and grime by sealing it with a clear sealant. Sealing your fireplace will also make it easier to clean in the future.
Cleaning With Detergent and Salt
If you want to clean your brick fireplace with a detergent, mix one part water and one part dishwashing liquid. Add in half a cup of salt and stir until the salt is dissolved. Apply the mixture to the bricks with a sponge or brush, scrubbing gently. Rinse the area with clean water when you’re finished.[1]
This will help you avoid damaging the bricks.
Cleaning With Dishwashing Liquid, Ammonia, and Pumice
If you have a brick fireplace, you know that it can be difficult to keep it clean. Soot and ashes can build up on the bricks, making them difficult to clean. However, there are some things that you can do to make cleaning your fireplace easier. In this article, we will show you how to clean a brick fireplace using dishwashing liquid, ammonia, and pumice.
Dishwashing liquid is a good choice for cleaning your fireplace because it is gentle and will not damage the bricks. Ammonia is also a good choice for cleaning your fireplace because it is strong enough to remove soot and ashes; however, you should be careful when using ammonia because it is a corrosive substance. Pumice is a good choice for cleaning your fireplace because it is abrasive and will remove soot and ashes easily.
To clean your fireplace with dishwashing liquid, ammonia, and pumice, you will need:
- A bucket
- Dishwashing liquid
- Ammonia
- Pumice stone
- A scrub brush
- A vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment
First, mix together one part dishwashing liquid and two parts water in the bucket. Then, add one cup of ammonia to the mixture. Next, wet the pumice stone with the mixture and use it to scrub the bricks. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this. Finally, vacuum up any remaining dust and soot.[1]
Cleaning With Trisodium Phosphate (TSP)
If you have a brick fireplace that is particularly dirty, you may want to use Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) to clean it. TSP is a strong cleaning agent that can remove years of soot and grime from your fireplace. However, you need to be careful when using TSP, as it can damage some types of bricks.
To use TSP on your fireplace, mix one part TSP with four parts water in a bucket. Then, using a stiff brush, scrub the solution onto the bricks. Be sure to wear gloves and old clothes when doing this, as the solution can be quite messy. Let the solution sit on the bricks for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with a hose.
Once you have rinsed off the TSP solution, your fireplace should look much cleaner. If it is still not as clean as you would like, you can repeat the process. Just be sure not to leave the TSP solution on for too long, as it can damage the bricks.[1]
Getting Fireplace Bricks Clean With Borax
Borax is an incredibly versatile product that can be used for cleaning many different things around the house, including your fireplace bricks. To use Borax to clean your fireplace bricks, simply make a paste out of equal parts Borax and water. Rub the paste onto the bricks using a sponge or brush, then let it sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get all of the dirt and soot off of your fireplace bricks.
Once you’ve gotten your fireplace bricks clean with Borax, you’ll want to protect them from future dirt and soot buildup by applying a coat of sealant. You can find sealants specifically designed for fireplaces at most home improvement stores. Just follow the directions on the sealant can for best results.[5]
Spot-Clean Any Remaining Stains
To finish up, spot-clean any remaining stains with a damp rag and a little bit of mild soap. Be sure to rinse the area well afterwards to remove any soap residue.
Clean the Fireplace Mantle and Hearth
To clean the mantle, start by dusting it with a soft cloth. If there are any spots or stains, you can use a mild soap and water solution to wipe them away. Be sure to rinse the mantle completely and dry it before applying any polish or cleaner. For the hearth, start by sweeping away any debris. If there are any stains or dirt build-up, you can use a damp cloth to wipe them away. Be sure to let the hearth dry completely before using it again.[3]
Tips to Keep Your Fireplace Bricks Clean Longer
Here are some tips that will help you keep your fireplace bricks clean for longer:
- Make sure to sweep or vacuum regularly to remove any debris that could potentially stain the bricks.
- If you have a wood-burning fireplace, be sure to have the chimney cleaned at least once a year to prevent soot buildup.
- Spot clean as needed using a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the bricks.
- If your fireplace is in need of a deeper cleaning, you can use a soft brush and diluted muriatic acid solution. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when handling muriatic acid. rinse the area well with water after cleaning.[1]
How To Maintain Brick Fireplaces To Keep Them Clean
When it comes to cleaning brick fireplaces, the best offense is a good defense. Regular maintenance will go a long way toward keeping your fireplace clean and looking great. Here are some tips on how to maintain your brick fireplace:
- Sweep the chimney regularly. This will help remove any soot or debris that could potentially cause staining.
- Wipe down the bricks with a damp cloth on a weekly basis. This will help remove any dirt or dust that has settled on the surface.
- Apply a sealant to the bricks every few years. This will create a barrier against dirt, soot, and other materials that can cause staining.[4]
How to Clean a Brick Fireplace: Step-by-Step Guide
If you want to keep your brick fireplace looking its best, follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide. The table provides detailed instructions, materials, tools, estimated time, and the level of difficulty for each step.
| Step | Task | Materials Needed | Tools Required | Estimated Time | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Prepare the Area | Plastic sheeting, painter’s tape | Tarp, drop cloth | 30 minutes | Easy |
| Step 2 | Clean the Surrounding Area | Vacuum, broom, dustpan | Brush, dust mask | 1 hour | Easy |
| Step 3 | Remove Loose Soot and Debris | Gloves, trash bags | Trowel, brush, dust mask | 1-2 hours | Moderate |
| Step 4 | Clean the Bricks | Brick cleaner solution | Scrub brush, sponge, bucket | 2-3 hours | Moderate |
| Step 5 | Rinse and Dry | Clean water, towels | Bucket, sponge | 1-2 hours | Easy |
| Step 6 | Seal the Bricks (Optional) | Brick sealer | Paintbrush or roller | 1-2 hours | Moderate |
| Step 7 | Replace Accessories | Fireplace tools, logs, and screen | None | 30 minutes | Easy |
Explanation of the Table:
This table provides a detailed step-by-step guide for cleaning a brick fireplace. It includes information on the tasks to be completed, materials needed, tools required, estimated time for each step, and the difficulty level. Following these steps will help you maintain a clean and attractive brick fireplace.
FAQ
Do you need to clean fireplace bricks?
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll need to clean the bricks regularly to prevent soot and ash build-up.
If your fireplace is gas-powered, it won’t produce as much soot, but you should still give it a good cleaning every few months.
How do you refresh an old brick fireplace?
If you have an old brick fireplace that’s seen better days, don’t despair. With a little elbow grease and the right cleaning supplies, you can bring it back to its former glory. Here’s how:
Start by giving the fireplace a good sweeping. Be sure to get rid of any dust or debris that’s accumulated on the hearth. Next, mix up a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water in a bucket. Using a sponge, apply the mixture to the bricks and scrub until they’re clean.
Rinse with clean water and let the bricks dry completely before continuing.
How do you make bricks look new again?
Bricks are a beautiful and classic material that can add character to any home. But over time, they can become stained and discolored. If you want to clean your brick fireplace and make it look new again, there are a few things you need to know.
How do you clean exposed brick?
Assuming your exposed brick is in good condition and just needs a general cleaning, follow these steps:
- Start by sweeping the bricks with a soft bristled broom.
- Next, mix up a solution of one part water to one part vinegar.
- Using a clean cloth, sponge the mixture onto the bricks and scrub gently.
- Rinse the area with clean water and allow it to air dry.
Will vinegar damage bricks?
No, vinegar will not damage bricks. In fact, vinegar is a mild acid that can actually help clean brick fireplaces. However, you should always test a small area first to make sure the vinegar does not cause any staining or damage to the bricks.
Does OxiClean clean brick?
Yes! OxiClean is a great option for cleaning bricks. You can either make a paste with the powder and water or use the liquid version.
Just be sure to test it on a small area first to ensure there is no reaction.
Here are some other helpful tips for cleaning your brick fireplace:
- If you have soot stains, mix one part dish soap with four parts warm water. Rub the mixture onto the stains with a sponge, then rinse clean.
- To remove smoke stains, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water in a bucket. Use a brush to apply the mixture to the stained areas, then rinse clean.
- For general cleaning, use a mild detergent and warm water. Apply the mixture with a sponge, then rinse clean.
How do you clean bricks naturally?
There are a few different ways you can clean bricks naturally.
One option is to mix one part vinegar with one part water. Apply the mixture to the bricks with a sponge, then rinse clean.
Another option is to mix one part baking soda with two parts water. Rub the mixture onto the bricks with a sponge, then rinse clean.
Or, you could make a paste out of equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the bricks with a brush, then rinse clean.
Whatever method you choose, be sure to test it on a small area first to ensure there is no reaction.
What are the basic tools and materials needed for cleaning a brick fireplace?
To clean a brick fireplace, you’ll need a wire brush or stiff bristle brush, a bucket of warm water, mild dish soap, a sponge, a scrub brush, and a cloth or towel for drying. You may also use a commercial brick and mortar cleaner if needed.
What is the step-by-step process for cleaning soot and stains off brick fireplace surfaces?
To clean soot and stains from brick fireplace surfaces, first, remove loose debris with a brush. Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, then dip a sponge or scrub brush in the mixture and scrub the brick. Rinse with clean water, and use a cloth to dry the brick surface. For stubborn stains, consider using a brick cleaner following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can you provide tips on cleaning the mortar between bricks and repairing any damaged mortar joints?
Cleaning and repairing mortar joints is essential. Use a wire brush to clean out loose or damaged mortar. Mix a batch of mortar to the same consistency as the existing mortar and use a pointing trowel to apply it to the joints. Smooth the mortar, and after it dries, clean the bricks to remove any excess mortar.
How do you safely remove smoke and soot stains from the interior of a brick fireplace and the firebox?
Cleaning the interior of a brick fireplace and firebox involves using the same methods as cleaning the exterior. Brush away loose debris, then scrub the interior bricks with a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse with clean water, and ensure the firebox is completely dry before using it again.
What precautions should be taken to protect the surrounding area and flooring when cleaning a brick fireplace?
When cleaning a brick fireplace, protect the surrounding area by laying down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to catch any debris or water. Make sure to cover the flooring as well. Keep a bucket of water or a wet cloth nearby to wipe up any spills promptly.
Are there any eco-friendly or natural methods for cleaning a brick fireplace without using harsh chemicals?
Yes, you can clean a brick fireplace using natural methods. Try a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water, or a paste made from baking soda and water. Apply the solution to the brick, scrub gently, and rinse with clean water. These natural options can be effective for light cleaning.
How often should a brick fireplace be cleaned to maintain its appearance and safety?
The frequency of cleaning a brick fireplace depends on usage. For fireplaces used regularly, cleaning once a year is a good practice. However, you may need to clean more often if you notice heavy soot buildup or stains. Regular inspection and maintenance will help maintain its appearance and safety.
Useful Video: How to Clean Fireplace Brick Stains the Fast, Easy Way!
Conclusion
Cleaning a brick fireplace is easy with the right tools and techniques. Be sure to test any cleaners on a small area first, and always use protective gear when working with chemicals. With a little elbow grease, your fireplace will be looking good as new in no time! Thanks for reading! We hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!
Have a great day!
References:
- https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-fireplace-bricks-4587771
- https://www.thisoldhouse.com/cleaning/reviews/how-to-clean-fireplace-brick
- https://cleanmyspace.com/how-to-clean-brick-fireplace/
- https://fireandsaw.com/how-to-clean-brick-fireplace/
- https://cleaning.lovetoknow.com/Clean_Fireplace_Bricks