As the days get longer and the sunshine streams through your windows, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home — and your stove deserves some attention too! Whether you have a wood-burning stove, a multi-fuel appliance, or a gas model, regular maintenance is key to keeping it in tip-top condition, both for looks and performance. Here are some spring cleaning tips to make your stove shine.
1. Start with a Cool Stove
Always ensure your stove is completely cool before beginning any cleaning. It’s best to leave it unused for at least 24 hours before tackling any maintenance tasks.
2. Empty Ash and Debris
Remove any leftover ash from the firebox and clean out the ash pan. A small brush and pan can help you get into those corners. If you have a vacuum designed for ash removal, now’s the time to use it!
3. Clean the Glass
Soot and tar can build up on the stove glass over time. Use a stove glass cleaner or a homemade solution (such as vinegar and water or damp newspaper dipped in ash) to gently scrub away the grime. Avoid abrasive pads which can scratch the surface.
Tip: Clean glass looks better and helps you enjoy the full glow of the flames next time you light a fire.
4. Dust the Exterior
Use a soft, dry cloth or a microfibre cloth to remove dust and surface marks from the stove’s exterior. For stubborn stains or rust spots, you may need to use a little iron wool to take the layer of paint off an then use the manufacturers recommended touch-up paint that’s suitable for high-temperature surfaces.
5. Inspect the Seals and Ropes
Check the door seals and rope gaskets for wear and tear. If they’re starting to fray or no longer create a tight seal, it may be time to replace them. A good seal is essential for stove efficiency and safety.
6. Sweep the Chimney
Spring is an ideal time to get your chimney or flue professionally swept. After a busy winter of use, creosote and soot can build up and potentially cause blockages or fire hazards. Regular sweeping improves efficiency and extends the life of your stove.
7. Book a Professional Service
If your stove hasn’t been serviced in a while, consider scheduling a maintenance check. A professional can inspect internal parts like the baffle plate, fire bricks, and flue system to ensure everything’s working safely and efficiently. This is also a great option if you don’t feel confident doing any of the stove maintenance yourself.
8. Add a Fresh Touch
Spring is all about renewal! Add a stylish log basket, rearrange your hearth decor, or give the surrounding area a dust and polish to make your stove the centrepiece it deserves to be all year round.
Keep It Looking Great Year-Round
By incorporating your stove into your spring-cleaning routine, you’ll extend its lifespan, maintain its performance, and enjoy a beautifully clean focal point in your living space. A little care now means a warm, worry-free winter later!
Top tip – If you’ve finished using your stove now until the Autumn, maybe sure you leave the air controls in the open position. This allows the stove to breathe and reduces any moisture that could build up within the stove during the warmer months.