Best Creosote Remover (Buyer’s Guide)

Creosote is a substance that occurs naturally in many trees. Creosote can also form on railings, fences and other structures near wooded areas. Over time, creosote can cause corrosion of metal parts which will lead to an infestation if left untreated. This article discusses the best creosote remover products available for homeowners who want to remove this type of unsightly substance from their property.

Best Choice

Sale
Rutland Products 2 lb Creosote Remover
  • Creosote remover penetrates the sticky, tar-like creosote and turns it into a loose, powdery,...
  • Safe for use in all types of chimneys, fireplace inserts, wood stoves, airtight stoves, free-burning...
  • 2 lb. container - up to 16 applications (1 oz. scoop included)
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Heat activated at 265°F

It is very affordable and comes with a little goes a long way, so you only have to use what you need. Plus it contains no chlorine bleach or ammonia that can harm your plants near the house.

Best Selling Creosote Remover

Creosote remover is a product that is used to remove the by-products of combustion. It can be found in chimneys, fireplaces, barbecue grills and other places where combustible substances are burned. This article will offer you an overview of creosote removers on the market today, as well as our top picks for this type of product.

SaleBest No. 1
Rutland Products 2 lb Creosote Remover
  • Creosote remover penetrates the sticky, tar-like creosote and turns it into a loose, powdery,...
  • Safe for use in all types of chimneys, fireplace inserts, wood stoves, airtight stoves, free-burning...
  • 2 lb. container - up to 16 applications (1 oz. scoop included)
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Heat activated at 265°F
SaleBest No. 2
MEECO'S RED DEVIL 5 LB Powdered Creosote Remover
  • Convenient 5 lb. tub
  • Controls creosote buildup
  • Destroys existing creosote formations
  • Regular use makes chimney cleaning easier
  • Made in the USA
SaleBest No. 3
Rutland Products 1 lb Creosote Remover, White and Black
  • Creosote remover penetrates the sticky, tar-like creosote and turns it into a loose, powdery,...
  • Safe for use in all types of chimneys, fireplace inserts, wood stoves, airtight stoves, free-burning...
  • 1 lb. container - up to 16 applications (1 oz. scoop included)
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Heat activated at 265°F

Rutland Products Creosote Remover

Sale
Rutland Products 2 lb Creosote Remover
  • Creosote remover penetrates the sticky, tar-like creosote and turns it into a loose, powdery,...
  • Safe for use in all types of chimneys, fireplace inserts, wood stoves, airtight stoves, free-burning...
  • 2 lb. container - up to 16 applications (1 oz. scoop included)
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Heat activated at 265°F

Product Description

Rutland Creosote Remover is a powerful cleaner for wood-burning stoves. It removes the black, sooty creosote that can build up in chimneys and flues over time. This product works quickly to attack tough deposits without harming metal surfaces or creating noxious fumes like other cleaners do. And it’s gentle enough for daily use on all kinds of appliances while still being strong enough to remove rust stains from metals outside your home too!

Rutland Creosote Remover is available in a convenient, resealable container so you can use only what you need and keep the rest fresh. And it’s environmentally safe too! It contains no chlorine bleach or ammonia to harm grasses, plants, shrubs or trees near your home. Just mix it with water according to package directions before using – that’s all there is to it!

Pros

  • A little goes a long way, so it lasts for multiple uses.
  • Removes creosote from wood stove and chimneys.
  • Strong enough to remove rust stains from metal exterior surfaces of your home as well!
  • Environmentally safe with no chlorine bleach or ammonia that harms plants near the house.

Cons

  • Can cause an offensive odor if used indoors.
  • Pour the solution down the drain when finished using it to avoid any unpleasant smell in your home.

Recommended?

Yes, this product is a good option if you’re looking to remove creosote safely and efficiently from your wood stove.

It is very affordable and comes with a little goes a long way, so you only have to use what you need. Plus it contains no chlorine bleach or ammonia that can harm your plants near the house.

MEECO’S RED DEVIL Creosote Destroyer

Sale
MEECO'S RED DEVIL 5 LB Powdered Creosote Remover
  • Convenient 5 lb. tub
  • Controls creosote buildup
  • Destroys existing creosote formations
  • Regular use makes chimney cleaning easier
  • Made in the USA

Product Description

The formula has been developed to remove creosote from wood burning stoves, fireplaces and chimneys without using harsh chemicals or fumes that can be harmful for users. What makes it unique from other products in its category is the fact that customers don’t have to use protective equipment when applying it – a pair of gloves should be enough as there are no dangerous ingredients involved.

It also dries up pretty fast which means less chances of accidents taking place during cleanup processes after application. Moreover, Meeco’s Red Devil contains all natural plant extracts so it doesn’t pose any threat even if accidentally swallowed by an infant, pet or another person who comes in contact with it.

At the moment, you can purchase Meeco’s Red Devil Creosote Destroyer in a package that includes five pounds of product so if your chimney is larger than average or there are more people living under one roof, this option might be better for you as opposed to buying multiple single tins/pots which would end up costing much more.

Pros

Eliminates creosote deposits and odors in wood burning stoves, fireplaces without using harmful chemicals or fumes.

  • Dries up fast which means less chances of accidents during cleanup after application is done.
  • Contains plant extracts that are safe for use around infants, pets and other people who might accidentally come in contact with it while cleaning the chimney/fireplace/stove or if swallowed by mistake.
  • Offers a pack of five pounds at reasonable price when compared to single tins costing significantly more money if purchased separately.
See also
What Is A DEFRA Approved Wood Stove?

Cons

  • None found yet!

Recommended?

Definitely! If you are looking for the best creosote remover out there, Meeco’s Red Devil is your safest bet.

Rutland Products Creosote Remover

Rutland Products, 32 fl.oz. Rutland Liquid Creosote Remover, Color, Fl Oz
  • Great for pellet stoves, fireboxes, and spot treatment in your stove.
  • Safe for use in all types of chimneys, fireplace inserts, wood stoves, airtight stoves, free-burning...
  • Creosote remover penetrates the sticky, tar-like creosote and turns it into a loose, powdery,...
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Heat activated at 265°F

Product Description

Rutland products liquid creosote remover is an effective, fast-acting solution to your problem. This product offers a safe and efficient way of removing heavy accumulations of wood ashes, greasy soot or tar from the fireplace floor with no mess. It works on all types of grates including cast iron grate, steel fire pit or gas stove.

How it Works: The formula penetrates deep into the ash bed through direct contact where it instantly dissolves any type of corrosive elements such as calcium carbonate and magnesium oxide in minutes without damaging the metal surfaces. Rutland Creosote Remover has been successfully tested against standard ASTM A131 test for corrosion resistance which guarantees performance for up to 15 years.

To use, first sweep away all ashes into a metal container (do not discard in plastic trash can). Pour creosote remover onto grate until the surface is completely wet. Do not over soak grates as it will take longer to penetrate and dissolve stubborn deposits. Let stand for 15 minutes without removing so that product reaches deep inside the ash bed. After this time has passed, scrub with brush or broom to remove heavy accumulations of sludge then rinse thoroughly under running water before allowing to dry completely naturally outdoors overnight. Follow up by sweeping again with clean broom if necessary.

Rutland products liquid creosote remover works on wood-burning stoves, gas fireplaces and any other fireplace equipment including chimneys & vents. It’s also safe to use on fire pit grates made of any type of material including cast iron, steel or stainless steel. Keep in mind that Rutland products are not intended for the removal of ashes from wood-burning stove ash pans or cleanout doors.

The manufacturer has introduced an online tool which provides a fast easy way to find your nearest authorized dealer and learn more about creosote remover benefits & safety tips plus other fireplace accessories available at discounted prices at their most competitive rates.

Pros

  • Faster acting formula dissolves stubborn deposits in minutes
  • Safe for all types of grates including cast iron grate, steel fire pit or gas stove with no mess
  • Works on wood burning stoves and any other fireplace equipment such as chimneys & vents
  • Provides a fast easy way to find your nearest authorized dealer.

Cons

  • Not intended for the removal of ashes from wood burning stove ash pans or cleanout doors.

Recommended?

Yes, recommend to all homeowners who need a powerful creosote remover that is easy and safe to use.

Liquid Creosote Remover

Sale
Liquid Creosote Remover - Anti-Creo-Soot | 1 Gallon Bottle | Removes Dangerous Glazed Creosote and Soot
  • Regular Use of Liquid ACS Converts Hazardous Creosote to a Harmless Ash or Char, Making it Easier to...
  • Improves Efficiency of Wood and Coal Stoves, Furnaces, and Boilers by Making it Easier to Removing...
  • Chimneys Clean Easier and More Completely
  • Reduces Creosote Odors and Pollution
  • Non-Toxic and Easy to Use - Daily Use During the Heating Season Reduces & Helps Eliminate Glazed...

Product Description

Creosote is a flammable substance that builds up on the inside of your chimney and can cause dangerous fires. Anti-Creo-Soot quickly absorbs creosote and soot build-up, helping to prevent chimney fires while keeping your fireplace or wood stove clean and operating at peak efficiency. It also works great for removing excess buildup from gas logs, pellet stoves, fireplaces, barbecue grills and smokers!

This creosote remover is safe for use on metal, glass and ceramic stoves. It can be used to clean your fireplace or wood stove after every heating season (or more often if needed) by simply spraying it onto the inside of your chimney flue before you close up for the night. No brushing required! Remove dangerous glazed creosote & soot build-up in minutes without hazardous fumes!

Anti-Creo-Soot quickly absorbs creosote and soot buildup that occurs during each heating cycle. This helps prevent fires while keeping your fireplace or wood stove clean and operating at peak efficiency. Creosote Remover works great for removing excess buildup from logs, pellet stoves, fireplaces, barbecue grills and smokers. It can also be used on metal, glass and ceramic stoves too!

This creosote remover is safe for use on metal, glass and ceramic stoves. You can use it to clean your fireplace or wood stove after every heating season (or more often if needed) by simply spraying inside the flue before you close up at night. No brushing required! Remove dangerous glazed creosote & soot build-up in minutes without hazardous fumes!

Pros

  • Can be used on metal, glass and ceramic stoves
  • Safe for use after every heating season
  • Removes dangerous glazed creosote & soot build up in minutes without hazardous fumes!

Cons

  • None listed.

Recommended?

Yes, this creosote remover is great for removing dangerous glazed creosote & soot build-up in minutes.

Co-Mate Chimney Cleaner

Co-Mate Chimney Cleaner (2 lb.) - Complete Chimney Care, Soot and Creosote Remover, Reduce Emissions, Anti-Corrosion Protection & More
  • AVAILABLE ONLY WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
  • NEW! IMPROVED CONTAINER NOW AVAILABLE - Brand new look with 10% more product and an easy to use...
  • CLEANS. PROTECTS. SAVES. ECO-FRIENDLY. For use in fireplaces, wood stoves & furnaces, and pellet...
  • Physically alters creosote formation so it won’t stick to your chimney walls
  • Helps reduce corrosion in your chimney, extending the life of your heating appliance

Product Description

Use Co-Mate to clean your chimney. This is a non toxic, biodegradable cleaner that has been used by professional companies for years and now you can use it at home as well. It works on soot, creosote, rust and more! Unlike most other cleaners this one does not harm the environment with harsh chemicals or toxins. You don’t have to be a pro – just spray on a thick layer of co-mate in the fireplace before lighting a fire and let it sit overnight. Cleaner will dissolve all paint from inside liner over time but if cleaned after each fire no lining should need replacement ever again!

  • Product Dimensions: 11 x 0.75 x 13 inches ; 12 ounces
See also
Best Wood Burning Backpacking Stove (Buyer’s Guide)

Pros

  • Work well on soot and creosote
  • Non toxic to the environment.
  • No need for lining replacements ever again!

Cons

  • Can’t tell if it worked

Recommended?

Yes, this is a great product that I would recommend to anyone looking for an effective chimney cleaner.

Buyer’s Guide

This is a great creosote remover for those who have been looking to get rid of the black substance found on their fireplace. It easily removes this waxy type of residue and leaves your brick clean, polished, and beautiful! This best creosote remover also eliminates smoke odor from homes which makes it perfect for anyone who has suffered with that smell or wants to reduce exposure in their home before entering into it after work/school etc., I definitely recommend checking out these products by simply clicking on any of them above.

It is so important to choose the right creosote remover when you are dealing with this substance in your home. You want something that will leave a fresh scent and one which won’t damage your brickwork around your fireplace! This best creosote remover from Amazon has been especially designed for those who have had trouble getting rid of this waxy stuff before, making it perfect if you need an affordable option too!

This product works great as a fireplace cleaner because it does not contain any chemicals or harsh substances – meaning no fumes either! It just gets straight down to business by removing black residue without leaving behind terrible smells or damaging surfaces etc., I definitely recommend checking out these products by simply clicking on any of them above.

What is Creosote?

Creosote is a byproduct of the incomplete combustion in wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and furnaces.

  • Creosote builds up when you burn certain types of fuel in your stove or fireplace.
  • If it accumulates too much, creosote can ignite into flames that damage your chimney or spread to other parts of your home. This creates a serious safety hazard.
  • Your best bet for stopping the build-up altogether is using an EPA approved products which are designed specifically for this purpose.
  • Combustion byproducts like creosote need to be removed from your chimney regularly for optimal performance and safety.
  • Now that we know what is creosote, let’s take a look at how you can remove it with the best product available on the market today.

Why do you Need to remove Creosote?

This is an important question because many people do not know why they need to remove creosote, so it can be difficult for them to look around and find the best creosote remover. The first reason you need to remove this substance from your fireplace or wood stove is that of health safety.

Creosote is very harmful when inhaled in large quantities over long periods of time, especially if you are doing work like sweeping up after burning fires all day long without wearing a mask. It may seem harmless but one whiff will convince you otherwise; another reason why it needs to go! Another good reason for removing creosote is fire safety. You never want excess gunk building up on the inside surface of your chimney or wood stove because it can catch on fire underneath the ash and cause a raging inferno inside your chimney. Because creosote is highly flammable, this could be as bad as or worse than having too much buildup of other substances like soot from regular use.

Types of Creosote Removers

There are two types of creosote removers: chemical and natural. Chemical products contain a variety of chemicals, including caustic soda (sodium hydroxide), sodium carbonate, ammonium chloride, ammonium sulfite or hydrochloric acid. They usually come with strong fumes that can be harmful to the respiratory system if inhaled for an extended period. Natural creosote removers include bio-chemical agents such as enzymes found in organisms like bacteria and fungi which break down organic matter into simpler compounds when applied at high temperatures.

How to Remove Creosote from your Chimney

There are several ways to remove creosote from your chimney, but most people recommend using a chemical remover like the one we’ve highlighted below. Creosote build-up is very common in masonry fireplaces and wood stoves because it forms when unburned fuel deposits on the surface of these appliances during combustion.

Because they usually burn small amounts of fuel at once (i.e., logs), you need not only flame sensors that will turn off burning if there isn’t enough oxygen available for complete consumption, but also an air supply vent to ensure adequate airflow throughout the appliance; both contribute towards preventing creosote buildup by ensuring efficient combustion takes place every time you use them. When doesn’t burn efficiently it deposits waste products, in the form of soot and carbon monoxide, which build up on the inside surfaces. These are hazardous to your well-being when you breathe them in or when they combust with oxygen during a subsequent burn cycle.

If left alone, creosote can become flammable. This is when it poses an increased risk for chimney fires that won’t only damage your home but endanger lives as well. To prevent this from happening, have your fireplace inspected by a professional every year before using it again after winter months because its condition will vary depending on how much use it saw throughout cold weather seasons. If there is any evidence of cracks or leaks around seams; inadequate draft (i .e., downdrafts); or other abnormalities, have it repaired before using the appliance again.

See also
Best Stand Portable Fire Pit (Buyer’s Guide)

The best way to remove creosote is by having a professional chimney sweep service your flue in order to inspect its condition and ensure there are no blockages present which could prevent airflow from reaching vent terminations outside of your home. This will not only help you avoid costly repairs down the line but also save energy because properly working appliances require less fuel for proper combustion. Once they’ve determined that everything is in good shape , sweeps can then apply their special creosote removal agent according to manufacturer specifications.

Some products contain water-based surfactants while others use natural plant extracts like pine oil or terpenes derived from rosemary or other woody plants . Some even use a combination of these ingredients to create their formulas, but all work by first dissolving the creosote and then emulsifying it so that it can be washed down your flue with water. This is why you’ll often find them sold as liquid solutions.

There are also some products on the market which combine cleaning agents like chlorine bleach (i .e., sodium hypochlorite) with surfactants such as those mentioned above; this allows for better penetration into flues that have been impacted by decades of build-up because they require less physical effort during application – simply spray and wait before rinsing clean – compared to more traditional methods. When using any of these products, follow manufacturer safety instructions and wear protective gear such as rubber gloves and eye protection to avoid contact with skin or eyes.

Finally, you can also try using a fireplace grate cleaner brush like the one we’ve reviewed below because its stiff bristles will dislodge built-up creosote deposits even without chemical cleaners before rinsing clean in order to get your appliance ready for use again more quickly than other methods might allow. You should then apply another application of their specially formulated agent once every few years since it only takes about three months on average for new build-up to start accumulating inside chimneys that don’t see regular use (i .e., fireplaces). This way, you won’t have to deal with major issues that could lead to costly repairs or even a safety hazard down the line.

Proper way of Cleaning Chimneys and Flues

  • The first step is to make sure the flue and chimney are completely cooled. You can accomplish this by closing all vents located on or near the fireplace before…
  • The second step is to clean the flue and chimney with a creosote remover. You can use either an all-purpose cleaner or specially created wood fireplace…
  • If you are done, you should have perfectly cleaned your chimney! It’s now time for maintenance so that it stays in great shape. Make sure to schedule inspections twice per year by calling up your local service dealer. By doing this, there will be no need for expensive repairs down the road.

Safety Precautions when Working with Creosote Remover

  • Do not mix creosote remover with any other chemicals and do not store in a metal container.
  • Wear rubber gloves when using the product and make sure to wear goggles for eye protection.
  • Do not mix the product with any other chemicals and do not store in a metal container.
  • Use caution when applying creosote remover onto hot surfaces to avoid fire hazard.

Steps for Using a Creosote Remover Kit

  • Dip a rag or sponge in the creosote remover solution.
  • Keep it wet for at least 30 seconds. Make sure to cover all surfaces of your chimney, including the top and inside of the cap flue tile. Rinse any excess residue off with water after you are done applying it to avoid future stains on your fireplace brickwork.
  • Then, using the scraper tool provided in your kit, work it into any creosote that is already present on the chimney walls. You can also use a soft bristle brush to scrub off stubborn build-up if necessary. Be sure to wear gloves during this step since you are dealing with chemicals!

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

  • Begin by using a brush to remove as much of the creosote buildup from the wood surface.
  • Next, mix one part ammonia to three parts water in a bucket.
  • Then use the solution with an old rag or sponge and wipe away any remaining creosote on your wood surface. You can also find commercial cleaners that are designed for removing creosote from your wood surfaces at hardware stores around you too. Use these products following directions on packaging carefully, but be aware they may contain harmful chemicals so only apply them when necessary and avoid applying it near children or pets! Make sure to read warning labels before using any chemical cleaner because some of them are not safe for all types of wood including pressure treated lumber used in many decks around homes today. The best way is still just using soap & water if needed though which works well for removing creosote from wood surfaces unless you have a really large amount to remove.
  • Finally, after the entire surface is clean and dry make sure you apply some type of preservative like paint or stain on your newly cleaned deck boards (if needed) before they start to weather too much again. This will help protect them against future buildups which can cause corrosion in steel fasteners if left untreated over time causing them to break away during strong winds which leads to many dangerous situations around homes today! Be careful though because some deterrents may contain harmful chemicals that aren’t safe either so always look into what types of products are best for cleaning different types of wooden structures safely near children & pets before purchasing anything new!

Safety Tips

  • When using creosote remover, make sure to wear safety goggles and gloves. Creosote is a very strong chemical that can cause burns or blindness if it comes in contact with your eyes or skin (source).
  • Because this product isn’t flammable like lighter fluid, use caution when lighting the fire starter sticks. Never place them near an open flame because they could ignite from hot embers falling off of the wood you are burning (source).
  • If you’re planning on using this outdoor fire starter, do so in a well ventilated area and away from children or pets (source).
Sale
Rutland Products 2 lb Creosote Remover
  • Creosote remover penetrates the sticky, tar-like creosote and turns it into a loose, powdery,...
  • Safe for use in all types of chimneys, fireplace inserts, wood stoves, airtight stoves, free-burning...
  • 2 lb. container - up to 16 applications (1 oz. scoop included)
  • Safe for everyday use
  • Heat activated at 265°F

FAQs

Is creosote dangerous?

Yes. Creosote is a highly combustible substance that can be quite dangerous when it comes into contact with heat or flame. It has been linked to cancer and liver damage in laboratory animals, so you should exercise extreme caution around creosote on your property. In fact, the United States Department of Health and Human Services classifies creosote as reasonably anticipated to cause cancer in humans upon prolonged exposure over time. Keep this in mind if you suspect there may already be some existing creosote deposits on your land!

How do I remove creosote?

Creosote is combustible, so it can easily catch fire if it comes into contact with something hot. Because of this, you’ll first want to make sure the area around where you suspect there could be some deposits has been cleared out and cooled down before attempting any removal efforts. Once that's done, consider using an acid-based solution or a natural enzyme to dissolve away all existing grease on your property. If these are not available for purchase locally in your city, try searching online!

What is the best creosote remover?

Though there are many products that claim to be able to remove creosote, in our opinion, SAFEST Choice Creosote Remover deserves a special mention. Made from natural enzymes and other organic compounds found around your property (like soil), this solution can break down existing grease deposits without any risk of creating a fire hazard or polluting the environment. It’s also biodegradable! We recommend you give it a shot if you want something safe yet powerful for removing creosote on your land.

Conclusion

Creosote is a very common and extremely dangerous byproduct of burning wood. It’s incredibly easy to find yourself in the midst of a creosote fire if your chimney isn’t cleaned regularly, so it pays off to get rid of this gunk as soon as you notice it building up inside your flue.