Unlocking the Power of Wood Stove Ashes

Many Wisconsinites use a wood-burning stove for economical winter heating. The wood-burning process produces byproducts like smoke, soot, and creosote that exit your home through the stovepipe and chimney. However, one remnant left behind is a grayish matter known as ash. Often discarded, this nutrient-rich substance has many surprisingly practical uses. So, gather around folks as we unlock the power of wood stove ashes.

Green Goddess

Wood ash is rich in calcium and potassium, making it a natural fertilizer for garden plants. Sprinkle it around the base of your tomato vines, rose bushes, or fruit trees for a springtime growth spurt. Remember, moderation is key – too much ash can raise pH, so a light sprinkling goes a long way.

Stain Remover

Surprisingly, wood ash is a natural stain remover. Its mild abrasive properties make it practical yet effective for removing greasy pots, grills, and even oven glass stains. Mix ash with a bit of water to create a paste. Then, scrub away the grime and watch the stains vanish. Just be cautious on delicate surfaces, and always wear gloves for added protection.

Traction Boot

During winter in Illinois and Wisconsin, it’s common to encounter icy sidewalks and dangerous driveways. You can sprinkle ash on slippery paths and steps to prevent falling for better traction. The ash works like tiny sand particles, giving your boots the extra grip they need to navigate icy and frost-covered surfaces safely. Save your coffee grounds, too. The combination of ash and coffee grounds creates a surprisingly powerful ice melter!

Pest Control

If summer bugs find your garden irresistible, you might try dusting some wood stove ashes around the perimeter of your vegetable patch to deter slugs and snails. You can also sprinkle it near ant mounds to send them scurrying away. The minerals in the ash disrupt their navigation and nesting, making your home and garden a bug-free zone. Remember, always check local regulations before using ash as a pest deterrent.

Natural Deodorizer

Are odors lurking in your fridge or lingering in your pet’s favorite corner? Place a bowl filled with ash in the offending area to absorb unpleasant smells. Its natural alkalinity neutralizes odors, leaving behind a fresh, earthy scent. Just replace the ash every few weeks for continued odor control. 

Laundry Booster

Believe it or not, wood ash also works wonders in the laundry! Add a cup of sifted ash to your next wash cycle for a natural laundry booster. The mild alkalinity helps neutralize odors and soften hard water, leaving your clothes fresh and clean without harsh chemicals.

While wood stove ashes have many practical and powerful uses, always wear gloves to avoid direct contact. Its high pH level, around 10-12, is on par with substances like bleach or laundry detergent in terms of irritating and drying out the skin. Direct contact can lead to redness, itching, and even minor burns. Gloves act as a barrier to protect your skin.

Wood Stove Services

Ensure your wood stove is performing at peak efficiency this winter. Call Burlington Fireplace today at 262-763-3522 to schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning. Or contact us online for a free estimate. Our chimney professionals provide wood stove inspections, cleaning, repair, and installation. We serve customers throughout southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, including Bloomfield, WI; Waterford, WI; Round Lake Beach, IL; and Zion, IL.