When fall weather arrives, it's time for hot cider and unwinding with the family near the fire. But keeping your hearth clean should be a year-round priority for you and your family’s safety. Here are 5 tips for cleaning a fireplace to create a safe and cozy environment in your home.


1. Accessorize
The first step to a tidy-looking hearth is investing in the right accessories for your space. A log holder will not only keep properly seasoned firewood at your fingertips, it also allows for a clean looking and inviting hearth.
There are other accessories that are crucial for safety, but also make it easier to keep debris contained. A classic screen is a must-have accessory, along with this toolset and holder to keep everything you need within arm’s reach.


2. Keep a Schedule
If your fireplace is used regularly, it’s a good idea to try to clean it after every use. However, most people don’t have time to do that. At minimum, schedule a time every month to clean your fireplace and hearth. Not only will it decrease build up that could lead to unsafe conditions, it also will make it easier to clean the next time.
3. Use the Right Tools
You’ll definitely need a high-quality toolset with a firelog poker, tongs, shovel, and brush. All of these items will allow you to maneuver logs while the fire is burning, as well as clearing out debris when you’re done.
You’ll also need to use the proper cleaning solution. There are plenty of cleaning solutions on the market you can pick up from the store. But you don’t need anything expensive. Mix 6 tablespoons of Trisodium Phosphate, 1 cup of bleach, and 1 gallon of warm water into a plastic bucket. Make sure to clean all parts of the fireplace including the grate and walls.


4. Try a Creosote Sweeping Log
Cleaning your fireplace regularly is a great way to reduce creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood that lurks in your chimney until it’s removed. Too much buildup can lead to a serious fire. Using a creosote sweeping log just a couple of times per season can make a difference.
5. Have a Professional Check Annually
No matter how regularly you clean your fireplace, it’s important to have a professional inspect your fireplace every year. We can’t always see what’s happening in the flue, and a professional can even use a camera to get a close-up view of your chimney area. A professional can also analyze a gas fireplace for any leaks and replace any worn parts.
A Clean Hearth is a Safe Home
Committing to a regular cleaning schedule will keep your hearth looking great while also keeping your family safe year-round. Neglecting your hearth can lead to unsightly stains, but also make the air in your home less than ideal. A combination of the right tools, cleaning solution, and proper schedule will lead to a great winter season.