Quick Tips
You finally convinced yourself that exposed brick was the pinnacle of home aesthetics, only to realize it’s a magnet for dirt, soot, and some mystery stains that probably predate your lease. Maybe it’s your fireplace, your patio, or an entire wall that’s looking less rustic-chic and more abandoned-warehouse. Whatever the case, that brick isn’t going to clean itself—but luckily, it’s easier than you think.
Why Cleaning Brick Matters
Brick is durable, but its porous nature means it absorbs grime like a sponge. Left unchecked, dirt and mold can break down the material over time, leading to costly repairs. If you have a fireplace, soot buildup isn’t just ugly—it can be a fire hazard (NFPA on fireplace safety). Outdoor bricks collect moss, mildew, and pollutants, making them slippery and unsightly. Regular cleaning keeps your brick surfaces looking sharp and structurally sound.
What You’ll Need to Clean Brick
Before you start, gather these supplies:
- Bucket of warm water – The foundation for most cleaning solutions.
- Mild dish soap or white vinegar – Great for routine cleaning.
- Baking soda or borax – Adds scrubbing power.
- Hydrogen peroxide or bleach (for tough stains) – Kills mold and mildew (EPA guidelines on mold cleanup).
- Stiff-bristle brush – Essential for scrubbing porous brick.
- Spray bottle – Useful for applying cleaning solutions.
- Garden hose or sponge – For rinsing (avoid pressure washers on fragile brick).
- Gloves and safety goggles – Protection from harsh chemicals.
How to Clean Brick in 6 Easy Steps
1. Dry Brush to Remove Loose Debris
Start with a dry, stiff-bristle brush to scrub away surface dirt, cobwebs, and loose debris. This prevents excess mud from forming when you add water.
2. Mix Your Cleaning Solution
For routine cleaning, mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap or white vinegar in a bucket. For tougher grime, make a paste with baking soda and water or use a borax-water solution (learn how to clean with borax).
3. Apply and Let Sit
Dip a brush or sponge into your cleaning solution and apply it generously to the brick. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes so it can break down dirt and stains.
4. Scrub with a Stiff-Bristle Brush
Using a stiff-bristle brush, scrub the brick in circular motions, focusing on stained or heavily soiled areas. Avoid using metal brushes, as they can damage the brick surface.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
For indoor brick, use a damp sponge and clean water to wipe away the residue. For outdoor brick, rinse with a garden hose. Avoid power washing unless the brick is sealed and in good condition.
6. Tackle Stubborn Stains with Hydrogen Peroxide or Bleach
For mold, mildew, or deep-set stains, apply hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach using a spray bottle. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse. Be cautious with bleach—it can discolor surrounding materials (OSHA guidelines on bleach safety).
How Professionals Clean Brick
Brick restoration experts use specialized methods such as:
- Acid washing – A last resort for extreme staining, done under controlled conditions.
- Steam cleaning – A chemical-free method that loosens dirt and mold.
- Sealing and waterproofing – Protects brick from future stains and erosion.
For historic or fragile brick, professional cleaning may be the safest option to prevent damage (National Trust on historic brick care).
How Often Should You Clean Brick?
- Indoor brick (fireplaces, walls) – Every 3-6 months to prevent soot and dust buildup.
- Outdoor brick (patios, walls, walkways) – Once or twice a year, or more often in humid climates.
- Heavily used fireplaces – Monthly cleaning during the winter season.
Final Thoughts
Brick adds character to any space, but it also loves collecting dirt. Regular cleaning not only makes your brick surfaces look better but also extends their life. Whether you’re scrubbing down a fireplace, a patio, or a vintage exposed-brick wall, a little effort now saves you from a bigger mess later.
So, grab that brush, channel your inner mason, and bring your brick back to life.