Removing Smoke Stains From Fireplace Brick

Our Answer

Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is an effective heavy-duty cleaner that's good on brick, but that's tough to find in some areas.  If your region is one of them – or if the phosphates give you pause, there's a version of TSP that’s phosphate free.

Whether you go with phosphate-free TSP or the good old-fashioned kind, wear protective gear, and do your best not to let the TSP contact your skin.  In a bucket, mix 1/2 cup of the TSP with one gallon of hot water. and use a scrub brush to scrub it into the brick.  Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry. 
Good luck!  Post before and after photos to Money Pit's Facebook page!