How To Clean Brick Indoors in 7 Steps

Brick walls add character and charm to a home, but they can accumulate dirt and grime over time, thanks to their porous nature. Cleaning indoor brick might seem like a pain, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your brick surfaces to their former glory. In this article, we’ll share exactly what you need and how to do it.

Overview of Brick Cleaning Solutions

There are several cleaning solutions you can use on indoor brick. Your choice of cleaner depends on the type of brick, how dirty it is, and any specific stains or issues present. 

Mild Soap and Water

Use a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water for routine cleaning of lightly soiled brick. This gentle solution is safe for most brick surfaces, and you can use it regularly without risk of damage. Add a few drops of dish soap to a bucket of warm water and gently scrub the brick to lift away dirt and grime.

Trisodium Phosphate (TSP)

Trisodium phosphate is a powerful alkaline cleaner that’s best for removing grease and oil stains from brick. Use TSP carefully and follow manufacturer instructions, as it can be harsh on skin and surfaces if you don’t dilute it properly. TSP can lift ingrained grease and restore the brick’s appearance but always wear gloves and protective gear when handling TSP to avoid irritation or harm.

Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda and water paste is a mild abrasive cleaner that’s particularly useful for spot-cleaning stains on brick. This natural option is safe for most surfaces and environmentally friendly. Baking soda’s gentle abrasive quality helps it break down surface stains without scratching or damaging the brick. Apply the paste to stains and scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush for best results.

Vinegar Solution

A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can effectively clean brick, especially when dealing with efflorescence (white, powdery mineral deposits). Vinegar’s acidity helps dissolve these deposits without damaging the brick. Soak a cloth in the vinegar solution, apply it to the deposits, and let it work magic.

Commercial Brick Cleaners

You can find many specialized cleaning products for brick in stores or online. These can tackle specific issues such as mold, mildew, or stubborn stains. Always choose a cleaner appropriate for indoor use and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when using it.

How To Clean Interior Brick

Cleaning indoor brick requires a methodical approach to remove stains without causing damage. Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

1. Prepare the Area

Remove any furniture or decor near the brick surface. Cover the floor with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect it from cleaning solutions and debris. This helps avoid damage and gives you ample working space.

2. Gather Necessary Supplies

Collect all your cleaning materials, like the solution, a bucket, a soft-bristled sponge or brush, gloves, safety goggles, clean cloths or towels, and a spray bottle (optional).

3. Test the Cleaning Solution

Always test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the brick to make sure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage. Wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions before proceeding. 

4. Apply the Cleaning Solution

Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to apply the cleaning solution to the brick surface. Work in small sections, starting from the bottom and moving upward to prevent streaking. Apply the solution evenly and systematically to lift dirt and stains effectively and avoid unwanted streaks.

5. Scrub Gently

Scrub the brick in a circular motion, paying extra attention to areas with visible dirt or stains. Avoid using metal brushes or abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the brick. 

6. Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse the cleaned area thoroughly with clean water. Use a spray bottle or a clean, damp cloth to remove all cleaning solution from the brick surface. This eliminates any lingering cleaning agents that could harm the brick over time.

7. Dry the Brick

Allow the brick to air dry completely. If needed, use clean towels to pat the surface dry and prevent water spots. This helps prevent moisture-related issues such as mold or mildew growth.

Dealing With Tough Stains and Mold

Sometimes, indoor brick surfaces have more stubborn issues that require special attention. For example, mold and mildew can be health hazards, so you should address them promptly. To remove mold from brick, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution directly on the affected areas and let it sit for 15 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brunch, then rinse with clean water and let it fully dry. If you’re dealing with persistent mold problems, it’s best to use a commercial mold remover safe for use on brick.

For oil or grease stains on brick, apply a paste made from powdered laundry detergent and water to the stain and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush and rinse thoroughly with clean water, repeating the process if necessary. You may need to clean persistent grease stains more than once to remove them completely. 

Special Considerations for Fireplace Brick

Cleaning fireplace brick requires extra care due to soot and creosote buildup. Here’s how to approach this task. Start by vacuuming loose soot and debris from the brick surface so it’s clear. Next, nix a paste of baking soda and water and apply the paste to the brick, letting it sit for 5–10 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush and rinse with water. You may need to use a commercial fireplace clean for tougher stains.

Maintaining Clean Indoor Brick

After cleaning, you should perform routine maintenance tasks to keep your indoor brick looking its best. Dust or vacuum brick surfaces regularly to prevent dirt buildup and apply a brick sealer to protect against future stains and make cleaning easier. Address spills and stains promptly to stop them from setting into the porous brick. I also recommend doing a deep clean annually or as needed, depending on the brick’s exposure to dirt and wear.