Fireplaces provide plenty of warmth and ambiance for homeowners, but they can also lead to a lot of soot and dust buildup. Cleaning these structures can be a hassle, but it’s important to reduce the risk of fire and keep excessive buildup out of the rest of your home. A professional chimney contractor can provide a thorough cleaning on occasion, but these tips can help you keep your fireplace clean in between appointments.

How to Properly Clean Your Fireplace

1. Let It Cool Fully

If you’ve recently used your fireplace, there may still be small embers burning within the ash, which can lead to fires if disturbed. Before cleaning your fireplace, make sure that the interior has cooled down completely. This will help you stay comfortable throughout the process and help you avoid any smoke or fire damage.

2. Cover the Surrounding Areas

Soot and dust can easily make their way into the rest of your home as you clean. To avoid major problems, put a towel down in front of the fireplace in the area where you’ll be sweeping. Make sure to cover all of the furniture in the room, especially anything valuable or upholstered, and wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty.

3. Sweep Walls & Floors 

Once the room is prepped, use a handheld broom to sweep soot from the walls and floor of the fireplace interior. Collect the soot into a small dustpan and then collect it into a bucket so you can easily dispose of it outside.

4. Clean the Bricks

Chimney contractors suggest that homeowners should also clean dirt and dust off of the bricks going around your fireplace. To do this, create a mixture of baking soda and dish soap until it forms a paste. Apply it to the fireplace walls and then brush it off to remove dirt.

In addition to keeping your fireplace clean, it’s also important to schedule regular inspections and repairs with a professional chimney contractor. American Masonry & Chimney Corp serves customers throughout Rochester, NY, and Monroe and Erie counties. With more than 50 years of experience, this chimney contractor offers fireplace installation, chimney repair, and concrete services. The team is also available for emergency repairs and provides affordable options for homeowners. View a full selection of services online or call (585) 865-4170 to speak with the chimney contractor directly.