Tip - Removing Soot from a Fireplace

By Hklbrries

Dear Heloise: We just bought a house and are in the process of remodeling. I am having trouble removing soot from the old fireplace. Do you have any suggestions for how to do this?

Kellie, via email

A: Kellie, depending on how much soot, how old and what type of brick or stone the fireplace is, there are a couple of options. If it is just a few bricks, you can try using an art gum eraser, found at art-supply stores. Knead the eraser and press it onto the bricks to remove the stains. Re-knead to expose a clean area, and repeat as needed.

If your fireplace needs more than that, take a good scrub brush and use some vinegar and water (50/50 solution) to clean. Do only one small area at a time. You may have to scrub more than once. Have paper towels or old towels handy to wipe up the soot. If the brick is old and crumbly, use a sponge or a soft brush.

Heloise

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