How to Clean Wood Burner Glass with Soda Crystals
A strong Soda Crystals solution wipes soot and tar off blackened wood burner glass.
Takes 10 minutes (stove cold)
What you’ll need
- 200 g Soda Crystals
- 1 litre Hot water
- Microfibre Cloth or Sponge
- Rubber gloves
Method
- Mix 200 grams of Soda Crystals in one litre of hot water to create your solution.
- Soak a cloth in the mixture, then use it to wipe away the soot from the glass.
- Rinse and remove any residue with clear water.
To deep clean the blackened glass of your wood burner.
Stove soot is sticky with tar, which is oily. Alkalinity cuts through it where water alone smears.
The science: Sodium carbonate (PubChem, NIH) →
Whilst Soda Crystals are a natural cleaning wonder, there are some things that should not be cleaned with them because of their abrasive properties (can scratch delicate surfaces).
Polished/Waxed/Lacquered Surfaces:
Due to its abrasiveness, Soda Crystals should not be used on fibreglass or polished/waxed surfaces as they may cause damage. The same applies to lacquered or varnished surfaces as Soda Crystals can damage the lacquer and leave a dull finish.
Aluminium:
Soda Crystals should not be used on aluminium products, such as aluminium pans, utensils, or window frames. This is because Soda Crystals can corrode aluminium and will discolour them.
Store Soda Crystals in a labelled airtight container in a cool and dry place, out of reach of kids and pets. Get a container with a tight seal, such as our glass jars to maximise its shelf life, but it also makes it easier to scoop out when needed for cleaning.
Whilst Soda Crystals are a very environmentally friendly and safe Natural Cleaning ingredient, it is important to bear in mind that it is still a chemical. As such the powder can still cause damage and irritation if handled incorrectly.
It is not edible, should not be inhaled, and can damage eyes (flush the exposed areas with large quantities of water). Wear gloves when cleaning with Soda Crystals as prolonged contact with the skin when used in high concentrations can also cause irritation.
Quick questions
Can I clean it while it’s warm?
No. Always wait until the stove is completely cold.
Why does the glass blacken so fast?
Usually damp wood or the air vent closed too far.
Try this next: Oven Cleaner: Soda Crystals →
