- 1). Lay drop cloths down around the fireplace. You need to protect the floor and carpeting from the ash.
- 2). Use a broom and dustpan to remove as much ash as possible from the fireplace.
- 3). Rent or buy a commercial vacuum cleaner, such as a ShopVac. Use the vacuum to remove any remaining ash in the fireplace. Dispose of the vacuumed ash immediately.
- 4). Prepare a solution of trisodium phosphate. You need to dilute the chemical before using it. Follow the instructions provided with the product.
- 5). Put on latex gloves and protective eyewear. Use a scrub brush and the trisodium phosphate solution to remove any soot or grease stains from the fireplace. Scrub both inside and any brick outside your fireplace.
- 6). Paint brick or stone around the fireplace with a masonry paint to cover the brick or stone. This will give it a fresh look as well as cover the creosote smell.
- 7). Paint any wood structures that may be soaked with creosote with aluminum paint.
- 8). Sprinkle carpet deodorizer on upholstery and carpeting. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum. This will reduce but may not completely remove the smell.