How to Remove Stubborn Household Soot, Smoke Film

How to clean smoke film and fireplace soot are questions I get frequently. But until I discovered Lestoil, a powerful and quite amazing multipurpose cleaner that can do all kinds of amazing tasks, I didn’t have very good news for my inquiring readers. But that’s all changed now. Get Lestoil!, has become my standard response.

Lestoil, available in home improvement centers like Home Depot and online, is a powerful cleaner that can be used to remove smoke film and soot from various surfaces.

However, you should be cautious when using it on delicate or porous surfaces such a painted wood, hardwood floors and furniture, as it to make sure what you plan to clean will not react negatively. Always test first!

Here’s how to use Lestoil to remove smoke film and soot effectively.

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Lestoil cleaner
2. Warm water
3. Bucket
4. Clean, soft cloths or sponges
5. Rubber gloves
6. Protective eyewear (optional)

Step 1: Ventilate the area

Before you begin cleaning, ensure the area is well-ventilated by opening windows and doors or using fans to help dissipate any lingering smoke odor and pungent Lestoil.

Step 2: Protect yourself

Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, and if you’re working overhead or in a potentially splash-prone area, consider wearing protective eyewear.

Step 3: Prepare the Lestoil solution

Mix a solution of Lestoil and warm water. The exact dilution ratio will depend on the severity of the smoke film and soot, but a common starting point is one part Lestoil to four parts water. Adjust as needed.

Step 4: Test in an inconspicuous area

Before using Lestoil on the entire affected area, it’s a good practice to test the solution in a small, inconspicuous spot to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the surface. Wait a few minutes to observe any adverse reactions.

Step 5: Apply the Lestoil solution

Dip a clean, soft cloth or sponge into the Lestoil solution, wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping, and then gently apply it to the smoke film and soot-covered surface. Start from the top and work your way down to prevent streaks.

Step 6: Scrub gently

If the smoke film and soot are stubborn, you may need to gently scrub the area with the cloth or sponge. Avoid using excessive force to prevent surface damage.

Step 7: Rinse and wipe clean

Once you’ve removed the smoke film and soot, rinse the cleaned area with clean water to remove any residual Lestoil solution. Then, wipe the area dry with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 8: Repeat as necessary

For heavy smoke damage, you may need to repeat the process a few times until the soot is completely removed. Be patient and avoid aggressive scrubbing, as this can cause damage.

Step 9: Clean surrounding areas

After cleaning the affected area, it’s a good idea to clean the surrounding surfaces and objects as well, as smoke film and soot can travel and settle on nearby items.

Step 10: Ventilate and deodorize

After cleaning, continue to ventilate the area to help dissipate any lingering smoke odor. You can also use odor-neutralizing products or air purifiers to help with this.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for Lestoil and exercise caution when using it on delicate or painted surfaces, as it can be abrasive. And be sure to wear appropriate protective gear and take safety precautions when working with cleaning chemicals.

 

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