Cleaning your fireplace tongs might not sound like a blast, but it’s essential to keep them in tip-top shape. Over time, they can get gunked up with soot and ash.
Guide
Here’s a quick and simple step-by-step guide to getting them spick and span:
Get Your Stuff Together
Before you dive in, grab what you need:
Fireplace tongs: the ones that need a scrub.
Warm water: for a good soak
Mild dish soap: Nothing too harsh.
Soft brush: A toothbrush or any small brush will do.
Clean cloth or paper towels: For drying.
Optional gloves: Keep your hands clean.
Shake Off the Gunk
Give your tongs a gentle tap or use your brush to shake off any loose bits of ash or soot. This step prevents making a mess during cleaning.
Take a Soapy Dip
Fill a bucket or basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Pop those tongs in and let them chill for about 10–15 minutes. This soak will soften up the grime.
Scrub-A-Dub
After their bath, take the tongs out and grab your trusty toothbrush or small brush. Start scrubbing away any leftover dirt and stains. If there are stubborn spots, give them a little extra TLC. Be gentle, though; we don’t want scratched tongs.
Rinse It Off
Once you’ve tackled the grime, rinse those tongs under running water. Make sure all the soap and residue are gone. You can also dunk them in a basin of clean water for a final rinse.
Dry Them Up
After rinsing, pat your tongs dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. Make sure they’re totally dry before putting them away. Any lingering moisture can lead to rust down the line.
Optional Extra
If your tongs have metal bits, consider giving them a little love. Apply a smidge of cooking oil or metal protector to keep rust at bay. Just put some oil on a cloth and rub it on the metal parts.
Store Them Right
Store your clean, dry tongs in a cool, dry spot when you’re not using them. Hang them near the fireplace or pop them in a dedicated tool holder. This way, they’re ready to roll whenever you’re feeling the fire vibes.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning like this will keep your trusty fireplace tongs in tip-top shape, ready for action whenever you’re in the mood for a cozy fire. So, go ahead and give those tongs a little TLC—they deserve it!
