Barb asked: How do I clean glass fireplace doors? They are black and brown stained.
The
stains that build up on fireplace and stove glass doors is from the soot and ashes that are released from the fire. Fortunately, with a little elbow grease and the right products, you can have the glass looking as good as new.
Cleaning with Ashes
You Will Need:
- Ashes
- Soft cloths
- Water
- Ash vacuum
Steps to Remove the Stains:
- Ashes can be used to remove the stains, and they work quite well. However, be prepared to put some time and effort into the cleaning task.
- Start by wiping away any loose ash or soot that may be present on the glass.
- Moisten a soft cloth with water.
- Dip the cloth into the ashes.
- Rub the ashes and soft cloth over the stained areas.
- Repeat until the stains are removed.
- Wipe the glass with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
Cleaning with Commercial Cleaners
You Will Need:
- Ash vacuum
- Wood Stove Glass Cleaner
- Soft cloths
- Water
Steps to Remove the Stains:
- Be surer that the glass has fully cooled.
- Start by vacuuming away any loose dust, soot or ash from the glass.
- Moisten a soft cloth with water.
- Apply some of the glass cleaner to the cloth. Be sure to use only a cleaner specifically designed for stove glass, not one for window glass.
- Rub the cleaner over the stained areas.
- Apply gentle pressure and use continuous short, back and forth or circular motions.
- Reapply the cleaner as needed until all of the stains have been removed.
- When clean, wipe the entire glass with a clean, damp, soft cloth.
- Dry with a clean cloth.
Additional Tips and Advice
- These cleaning methods are effective, but it takes some time and effort to remove the stains completely. Work in small periods and take breaks as needed. It will not hurt for the stains to sit in-between cleanings. Each time you clean, another layer of the stains will be removed until they are completely gone.
- Be sure to keep the cleaning cloth moist throughout the cleaning. This will avoid any scratching or damage to the glass.
- Regular cleanings will help prevent heavy stain build up.
- Do not use a regular, household vacuum to remove loose soot and ash. These small particles will easily be blown back into the air. Ash vacuums contain special filters to prevent this.
- When working with ashes, only use those that are cooled. Do not work with hot ashes.
I use wood stove glass cleaner and fine (0000) steel wool.
Works great, but wear a mask with that glass cleaner!!
Wow! I was skeptical, but I used a soft cloth, water, and ashes to wipe the glass. I was amazed how quickly the yellow stain of the glass vanished as I wiped the glass with ease. Thank you!
I use a product used to clean cooktop glass burners. It’s cheaper than the product fireplace store want to sell you. It works great! I will try the 0000 steel wool for the tough spots…This was recommended by the guys who installed our gas fireplace.
WoW!! This actually worked with very little scrubbing on my part at all!! Now I can actually see my pretty fire again!
I think this would work if you clean on a regular basis. Mine was so dirty that I used a glass scraper, which took if off immediately. However, you must keep the glass wet at all times so it doesn’t scrape the glass.