Control fireplace ash and stop it from flying out with 1 kitchen scrap
Spring cleaning season is upon us but one area that is commonly overlooked during maintenance is the fireplace. If you’re looking to brighten up your space before the summer sets in, then it pays to be careful. Daniel Vasilevski, director of Bright Force Electrical, warns that some common DIY tricks can do more harm than good.
The first hack that he says should be avoided at all costs is burning potato peels or aluminium cans to help “clean” the fireplace or improve efficiency. In reality, these materials leave behind stubborn deposits, sharp fragments, or even toxic fumes — potentially damaging your fireplace and harming indoor air quality. Instead, he recommends using coffee grounds during cleaning.
Damp coffee grounds can help weigh down ash, preventing it from becoming airborne while sweeping. Plus, they leave a subtle roasted scent — making your fireplace smell fresher. Simply sprinkle used coffee grounds over cool ashes before cleaning.
When clearing ashes it’s important not to vacuum them as this presents a hidden fire risk.
Using a regular indoor vacuum to clean up ash is a dangerous mistake for traditional and wood-burning fireplaces. Fine ash particles can clog or damage the vacuum without a proper filter or get blown back into the air. Even more alarming, hidden embers could be sucked into the motor, creating a serious fire risk.
Always scoop ashes into a metal bucket with a metal shovel and use a specialist ash vacuum if needed.
When it comes to cleaning the glass of your fireplace, some people swear by olive oil but Vasilevski warns this should be avoided as it can leave sticky greasy residue that highlights dust, fingerprints, and grime — leading to a greasy, dull finish rather than a sleek shine. Over time, this buildup near the burner could pose a fire risk.
Instead,a mixture of white vinegar and water can be an effective glass cleaner. Mix white vinegar and water in equal parts for a natural, streak-free solution. Spray onto a microfiber cloth (never directly onto the glass) to prevent drips into the burner.
