How To Clean Black Soot From Fireplace Brick

How To Clean Black Soot from Fireplace Brick

Fireplace soot is a common problem that can make your fireplace look unsightly and dirty. Not only is soot unsightly, but it can also be a fire hazard as well. Soot buildup on your brick fireplace can be a pain to clean, but it's important to do so regularly to keep your fireplace looking its best and to prevent potential hazards.

In this guide, we will go over the essential steps on how to clean black soot from fireplace brick. We will cover everything from the materials you need to the step-by-step instructions. By following these steps, you can easily and effectively clean the soot from your fireplace brick and restore it to its original beauty.

### Materials You'll Need * Soft-bristled brush * Stiff-bristled brush * Vacuum cleaner * Bucket * TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner * Muriatic acid (optional) * Gloves * Safety glasses * Dust mask ### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety First

* Before you start cleaning, make sure to wear gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask. Soot can be harmful if inhaled, so it's important to protect yourself.

2. Remove Loose Soot

* Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose soot from the brick. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to remove soot from hard-to-reach areas.

3. Make a Cleaning Solution

* In a bucket, mix one cup of TSP cleaner with one gallon of warm water. TSP is a powerful cleaner that will help to remove soot and grime from the brick.

4. Apply the Cleaning Solution

* Use a stiff-bristled brush to apply the cleaning solution to the brick. Work in small sections, and scrub the brick thoroughly to remove all of the soot.

5. Rinse the Brick

* Once you have cleaned the brick, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. You can use a garden hose or a bucket of water to rinse the brick.

6. Dry the Brick

* After you have rinsed the brick, allow it to dry completely. You can open windows and doors to help the brick dry faster.

7. Remove Stubborn Soot (Optional)

* If there is still some stubborn soot left on the brick, you can use muriatic acid to remove it. Muriatic acid is a strong acid, so it's important to use it with caution. Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses when using muriatic acid. * To use muriatic acid, mix one part muriatic acid with ten parts water. Apply the solution to the stubborn soot and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the soot with a stiff-bristled brush and rinse the brick thoroughly with clean water. ### Tips * Clean your fireplace regularly to prevent soot buildup. * Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the brick to avoid scratching it. * If you are using muriatic acid, be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses. * Allow the brick to dry completely before using your fireplace again.