How to Clean Your Wood Burning Stove Glass

One of the greatest pleasures of owning a log burner is watching the dancing flames through the glass door. Keep your view crystal clear with these simple cleaning methods.

The Ash Method: Nature's Glass Cleaner

For stoves that burn only properly dried wood, this traditional method is surprisingly effective:

1. Ensure your wood burner is completely cold

2. Take a piece of slightly damp newspaper

3. Dip it into the fine ash inside your stove

4. Gently rub the glass in circular motions

5. The fine ash acts as a mild abrasive that cuts through creosote deposits

6. Wipe clean with a fresh damp newspaper or cloth

7. Finish with a dry cloth for a streak-free shine

Important note: Only use this method if you exclusively burn properly dried wood. If you've burned solid fuels, unseasoned wood, or any other materials, the ash might contain particles that could scratch your glass.

Alternative Method: Specialized Cleaners

If you prefer not to use the ash method or have a heavily soiled glass:

1. Use a specialized stove glass cleaner like an Atmosfire sponge

2. These products are designed specifically for the ceramic glass used in wood burners

3. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully

4. Most require application to cold glass with a clean, dry cloth

5. Some may need to dry completely before being wiped away

Atmosphere Wipers are available at both of our stores in Wadebridge and Redruth

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Keep your wood burner glass cleaner for longer by:

1. Only burning properly seasoned or kiln-dried wood with less than 20% moisture content

2. Maintaining proper airflow by using the air vents correctly

3. Avoiding long periods of slow burning, which can increase creosote formation

4. Ensuring your stove reaches normal operating temperature during each use

When to Clean Your Glass

The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors:

1. The type of wood you burn (hardwoods typically produce less residue)

2. How often you use your stove

3. Your burning technique

Many log burner users find that the glass largely cleans itself when the fire is burning efficiently at high temperatures. The airwash system on modern stoves helps keep the glass clear by directing preheated air across the glass surface.

Regular glass cleaning not only improves your view of the fire but also allows you to monitor the quality of your burn, helping you maintain efficient operation of your wood burning stove.

Regular maintenance of your woodburner will help it last longer. See here for tips on how to clean your stove.

For insurance purposes it is always recommended that you sweep your fire at least once a year.