How to Clean a Limestone Fireplace
Limestone fireplaces can suffer from a build up of soot, general dirt and grime over the years. Regular cleaning should be undertaken to ensure your a remains looking its best. Limestone is a porous and relatively soft stone, so care needs to be taken when cleaning a limestone fireplace to avoid damaging the surface.
Hints and tips on cleaning a limestone fireplace, here are the steps you can take to clean limestone:
Dust and Sweep: Start by removing any loose dirt or dust from the fireplace using a soft brush or a soft, dry cloth.
Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution: Then add a few drops of washing-up liquid to a bucket of warm water and wipe over the fireplace using a clean cloth or non-abrasive sponge.
Rinse Thoroughly: Next, wipe down the fireplace using clean warm water, making sure no soapy residue remains on the stone.
Dry Immediately: Use a clean dry cloth or paper towels to get the limestone as dry as possible to avoid any water marks. The stone will look darker for a day or 2 until it fully dries out..
Dealing with Stubborn Marks or Stains: Try rubbing the mark or stain with neat clear bleach and then wash off the area with clean warm water. Then use a clean dry cloth or paper towels to dry the limestone.
Avoid: Using household cleaners, anything acidic or abrasive to clean limestone.
Get help: if the above doesn’t work you could try using a specialist stone cleaning product or seek help from a professional cleaning company.
Remember, prevention is key when it comes to limestone care, so always wipe up any spills immediately. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will help keep your limestone fireplace looking beautiful for years to come.
The advice above is given in good faith and Classic Mantels cannot accept any liability for any damage caused by following this advice.