If you have read through most of this series of blogs, you probably have noticed an underlying theme. I do like vacuum cleaners. I have a vacuum cleaner for almost every job in the house. Our main mop is essentially a vacuum cleaner that can squirt and suction water. You probably could do most of these jobs with just one vacuum cleaner. But when cleaning the fireplace, you need a utility type of vacuum cleaner to do the job. They come in different sizes and our great for use in the garage. 

Your child must be trained to operate this type of vacuum cleaner. Also, teach them how to empty the contents, so the vacuum cleaner is ready for its subsequent use. 

To prepare, have them put on old work or play clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Also, putting on garden or rubber gloves and rolling up their sleeves is very helpful. Have e them use a fireplace utensil to move around the ashes and ensure they are out. A good practice is to have them clean out the fireplace when it has been setting all day or all night without a fire. It is very helpful to have a metal bucket to place the large pieces of charred wood. Then have them vacuum out all the ashes, careful not to get soot on themselves or the vacuum cleaner’s hose. It is good to take a dampened paper towel and run it along the hose after use. 

As always, have them put everything back and empty the vacuum cleaner to be ready for subsequent use.