Unlocking the Power of Wood Stove Ashes

Wood ash is more beneficial than anyone thought. Sure, you have to clean it out of your fireplace regularly to keep your firebox clean. The process is to let it cool then grab a metal bucket and shovel. Be careful not to get the dust everywhere. When you get it outside, make sure it is cold. Then you dispose of it anywhere you can, usually in the trash.

We have the convenience of running out to a store. We can grab cleaners, bug sprays, and garden supplies at a corner store. Years ago, people made do with whatever they had on hand for these items. Everyone had a fireplace and thus made use of the ash. 

There are many beneficial ways to use wood stove ash, many of which have been used for centuries. Let’s dive into all the practical uses and surprising benefits.

The Garden

We have all heard about the benefits of adding ash to your garden. Ash from hardwoods such as oak, maple, and beech have an added beneficial pH distribution. Adding ash to your compost pile can benefit the soil. You can make an ash tea by adding ash to a 30-gallon bucket of water. Let it sit for 4-5 days then you can use this wood ash tea on your plants, a little goes a long way.  Before adding ash to your garden, check your soil for pH levels from your local garden center. 

Driveway Clean Up- Oil Spills

If you have worked on your car in your driveway in the past, chances are you have had an oil spill. You may have had an issue with a leak. Throw some ash on the spillage. Leave it there for a few hours. Sweep up the ash and the oil should be absorbed, you may need to repeat. It will look like you never had a spill.

Keep Rodents Away

Ash is effective in eliminating pests such as mice, rats, and cockroaches. Sprinkle a generous pile of ash in the basement near the walls and doors. 

Fire control

When enjoying a fire pit keep a bucket of ash nearby. You can smother a fire with the ash. 

Glass Cleaner

Instead of using chemicals on your fireplace glass doors, rub ash on the glass. Use a wet cloth or sponge to wipe it off. You will be amazed how well it works.

Silver Cleaner

Make a paste with ½ water and ½ ash. Rub it on your silver jewelry or silver utensils. Leave it on for a few minutes. Wipe it off with a damp cloth. You will see beautiful results. 

I hope that you have learned some new, amazing, practical uses and surprising benefits of wood ash.  

Call Felgemacher Masonry Chimney of Rochester

When you need chimney repair or cleaning call us. We are available for appointments on your schedule. Give us a call at 585-308-4914 or contact us online. 

We’ve been helping folks throughout the Buffalo NY and Rochester NY areas get the most out of their fireplace inserts, stoves, and chimneys for more than 60 years. When specialized chimney service is required, count on us for the best in chimney sweep, chimney repair, chimney rebuilding, and chimney inspection.