What can you use to clean blackened fireplace bricks effectively?

Let's state the obvious straight away: it is normal for the bricks in the fireplace to get blackened and remain so as long as the fire is used. But that's not to say that these bricks can't be cleaned from time to time. That said, this is they type of cleaning you wouldn't do regularly and, once started, cleaning the entire fireplace (and adjacent areas) is highly recommended.

So, how are fire-blackened bricks cleaned? Well, most of us actually already have everything we need at home!

Chimney cleaning products that you can make at home

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Of course, are commercially available detergents designed to clean fireplaces. But you can make your own detergent (and then do a small test to see if you're happy with the results). Try the following:

• Using dishwashing liquid: Use 60 ml of a mild dishwashing liquid which is clear and without chemical additives. Dilute this in a liter of water, and you should have no problems using this solution on any type of brick.
• Using alcohol vinegar: this product is more acidic and should not be used on old/vintage bricks. If the fireplace is more than 20 years old, it is best to avoid using vinegar on it. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and you can also add a drop of dish soap.

For stubborn stains, more aggressive remedies can also be used (but which damage delicate or older bricks):

• One tablespoon of borax, 500ml of water and one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid.
• 120 ml of ammonia diluted in a liter of water, and 3 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid.

The procedure

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Obviously, cleaning the fireplace must be done when it is at ambient temperature. Start by cleaning out all the loose ash and soot (vacuuming will be very helpful here). Then proceed as follows:

• Get a sponge or large brush to distribute mixture/detergent you have chosen (see above) to clean the fireplace;
• Wet a few bricks and then scrub then with a hard, plastic-bristled brush;
• Before moving on to the next spot, rinse off the just-cleaned area with another sponge and a bowl of clean water;
• Continue like this in small increments, scrubbing vigorously to remove stubborn stains/charring.

For stubborn grime, mix a little bicarbonate of soda with enough water to form a paste, and rub this on the grime with a sponge or with a brush. Rinse off after 10 minutes, and the stubborn grime should be gone.

This type of cleaning can be done a couple of times during the winter, and, of course when you stop using the fireplace for warmth.

Are you ready to make your fireplace look (nearly) as good as new again?