If
your grate is polished reproduction cast iron (it will look
silvery like pewter rather than black), a fine rust, caused
by the moisture in the air, can form on the surface when the
fire is not in use. At the end of winter, rub the grate with
a little WD40 to leave a fine film of oil.
To remove soot stains from the carpet, use the nozzle attachment
of your vacuum cleaner to pick up any residue (don't brush as
this will only spread the mark). Try lifting the stain with
talcum powder - rub in lightly with your fingers and then vacuum
away the deposit. If the stain remains, use Carpet Devils No
1 then shampoo. Brick
Remove any dust and soot with the dusting brush attachment
on your vacuum cleaner or a soft brush. Clean with a proprietary
brick/stone product such as Hotspot Fireplace Cleaner - don't
be tempted to use water as it may cause soot marks to be absorbed
by the brick and make staining worse. After cleaning, apply
a sealant such as Hotspot Brick & Stone Sealer to help protect
and repel stains. Hotspot products are made by HydraChem.
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