Hello friends, A fireplace made of bricks is an actual way to bring balminess and beauty to the home. However, over time, a layer of powder, soot, and fume starts accumulating on the elements, which reduces their sheen and beauty. A well-cleaned fireplace not only enhances the beauty of the home but also makes it safe. In this guide, we will tell you step by step all the habits by which you can make your brick hearth clean and glossy as new.
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Select required materials
If you want to clean a brick fireplace, you will need the following materials:
- Dish soap
- Water
- Cleaning brush (stiff bristle)
- baking soda
- white vinegar
- spray bottle
- Old towel or cloth
- Plastic sheet (to protect the floor)
Prepare before cleaning
Protect floors and walls:
Dirt and water may fall onto the floor while cleaning the fireplace. Before you start cleaning, lay plastic sheeting around the fireplace and cover nearby walls as well so they are protected from stains.
Open windows and doors:
Dust and smoke released during cleaning can pollute the indoor air. Therefore, take care of ventilation. Open windows and doors to allow adequate air circulation.
Removing soot and dust from bricks
Clean surface dust and ash:
Using a dry cloth or soft-bristle brush, gently scrub the surface of the fireplace to remove accumulated dust and ash. This is an important step, as it makes it easier to give a deep clean later.
Prepare a mixture of baking soda and water.
Baking soda has mild alkaline properties, which is helpful in loosening soot and stubborn stains on bricks.
Method to make paste: Take 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl and add water little by little. Mix it well and prepare a thick paste, which applies easily to the bricks of the fireplace.
Apply baking soda paste to the fireplace
Method of applying paste to bricks:
Slowly apply the baking soda paste over the entire surface of the fireplace. Spread the paste evenly on the bricks and leave it for at least 15-20 minutes. During this time, the paste will loosen the dirt, making it easier to remove later.
Rub with a stiff brush
Use of brush:
Take a stiff bristle brush and gently scrub the fireplace bricks. This process is labor intensive, but it is the most effective way to deep clean the bricks.
Precautions:
- While rubbing, take care not to use the brush too forcefully, so that the bricks do not get damaged.
- If the paste dries, you can sprinkle some water and rub it again.
Prepare a solution of vinegar and water
White vinegar contains natural acids that are helpful in removing stubborn dirt from fireplaces.
Make spray solution:
- Take a spray bottle and add half water and half white vinegar.
- Stir this solution well and spray it on the surface of the fireplace.
- Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes so that it loosens the dirt properly.
Wipe with a microfiber cloth
Final cleaning step:
Take a clean, dry microfiber cloth and thoroughly wipe the surface of the fireplace. This cloth, combined with the vinegar solution, will remove all the grime and leave the fireplace bricks shining.
Rinse with water and let dry
After cleaning, give the fireplace a gentle rinse with water to remove any traces of vinegar and baking soda. Then let it air dry.
Maintenance Tips
Light cleaning once a month:
Clean the fireplace surface once a month with a soft cloth or dry brush. This will prevent accumulation of dust and ash, and the fireplace will remain clean.
Cleaning of walls is also important: The walls around the fireplace can also be affected by smoke. Keep wiping these walls from time to time.
Remove stains in time: If there are any specific stains, clean them quickly. Once frozen, they can be difficult to remove.
Conclusion
A clean brick fireplace not only makes your home attractive, but taking care of it also makes it durable for a long time. These humble and effective methods above determination not only deep clean your hearth but also keep it looking countless all the time. Regular housework from time to time will keep your hearth looking beautiful and neat.
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