How Do You Clean Smoke off of Brick Fireplaces?

Before adding any liquid, brush the brick surface with a stiff, dry brush. This lifts loose soot and dust without pushing grime deeper into the porous brick. Work from the top down so you don't smear soot over already cleaned areas.

Use a brush with natural bristles, not wire, which can scratch the brick. Sweep the soot into a dustpan or vacuum it up. This step is important because wet cleaning after dry brushing is more effective and less messy.

• Use a stiff-bristle brush
• Brush from top to bottom
• Vacuum or sweep loose soot
• Avoid wire brushes on soft brick
• Wear gloves and a dust mask

For smoke stains that don't come off with soap and water, make a paste with baking soda and water, or use a commercial poultice. Apply the paste thickly over the stained area, let it sit for a few hours, then scrub and rinse. This draws out soot from the brick's pores.

Another option is trisodium phosphate, often called TSP, mixed with water. TSP is strong, so wear gloves and eye protection, and test it on a small hidden spot first. Always follow the label instructions and rinse thoroughly after use.

• Baking soda paste
• Commercial poultice
• TSP for heavy stains
• Test on a small area first
• Wear gloves and eye protection

If the smoke damage is extensive, or if the soot has stained the brick deeply, the pros can handle it. They have industrial-strength cleaners and equipment that can clean brick without damaging it. They can also address any smoke residue on nearby surfaces, like drywall or wood.

If the fireplace was involved in a fire, have a professional inspect the structure before cleaning. Safety comes first. The pros can assess the condition of the brick and mortar and recommend the right cleaning approach.

• Extensive smoke damage
• Deep stains that won't lift
• Persistent odor after cleaning
• Fire damage to the fireplace structure