How to Remove Fireplace Grime

A fireplace makes a room cozy and warm during the winter months. They also add beauty to any room that they are in but they can easily build up grime after each use. You want to make sure the fireplace is ready the next time winter comes around by removing the grime during the spring months.

How to Remove Fireplace Grime

Materials Needed

• Goggles


• Broom


• Dustpan


• Chimney brush


• Gloves


• Bucket


• Hot water


• Trisodium phosphate


• Absorbent towel


• Vacuum with a brush attachment

1. Make sure the fireplace is cooled before preparing to clean it. Put on goggles to keep away the dust.


2. Remove any ashes, dirt, dust or soot from around the fireplace with a broom and dustpan.


3. Locate the flue, which is the piece between the fireplace and the chimney. Scrub the flue with a chimney brush to remove any soot.


4. Locate the damper, which is the gate in the center of the chimney and firebox. Scrub the damper with a scrub brush. Make sure the damper closes and opens correctly.


5. Scrub the firebox with the brush and the hearth as well to remove any soot.


6. Put on gloves to protect your hands. Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of hot water and add ¼ cup of Trisodium Phosphate. Use a small scrub brush to clean the entire fireplace including the hearth, firebox and hearth floors. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for one hour.


7. Fill a bucket with clean warm water. Use the water and a scrub brush to rinse the fireplace thoroughly. The cleaning solution has to be removed because the cleaner is very flammable.


8. Rinse the fireplace doors. Use an absorbent towel to dry the doors. Allow the fireplace to dry for several hours.


9. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to go over the mantel and the screen.