If you burn wood routinely in your home, whether in a wood stove or a conventional fireplace, it’s critical to perform routine cleanings and maintenance in order to ensure a cozy and safe hearth. I clean my wood stove and chimney pipe in the spring, when I've finished burning on a daily basis. As an added tip, it's a smart idea to keep a dedicated shop vac specifically designed for ash removal whenever you're vacuuming a fireplace or wood stove. To keep creosote at a minimum, burn only seasoned hardwoods in your wood stove. Best Products for Maintaining Your Wood Stove or Fireplace Open Gallery