As we move into the colder winter months one of the biggest by-products of your fireplace, ash, will develop at the base of the fireplace. Typically, most people will throw it away but if you feel that’s a waste we have a few tips here for how you can use your ash around your home. So don’t throw away your ash, make the most of it!
Can I Use Wood Ashes For Cleaning?
Some surfaces made from metal and glass can be cleaned with your fireplace ash. The burnt wood ashes, mixed up with some tap water will form a grey paste. This paste is a mild abrasive and can be used to clean glass, remove residue and buff some metals. Ensure to wear gloves to protect your skin and apply the paste with a cotton cloth, start with small spots to test the results and clean away!
Can Fireplace Ashes Keep Bugs Away?
The wood ashes from your fireplace can indeed be used to prevent bugs, slugs, ants and pests from entering your home. A small circle around your vulnerable plants that are being attacked by bugs and pests will help protect them. Additionally, any small holes that ants and insects use to gain access to your home can be filled with ashes to prevent them from even entering your home. If you want to remove the ash, you can simply wash it away with water – no fuss.
Can Ash Help With Driveway Spills?
If you have a particularly big collection of ash from your fireplace, you can use this to help clean up any oil spills on your driveway (or road). When changing your vehicle’s oil, keep the ash to hand and it can be used in a similar fashion to sawdust to collect it up and help clean it away. Absorbing the spill and avoiding any unsightliness for your driveway.
These are just a few of the many unusual and helpful uses of your fireplace ashes. For further advice about your fireplace and how to best use them, get in touch with our team today.