12 Smart Ways to Reuse Fireplace Ashes Around Your Home and Garden

I've got to admit I was pretty surprised to learn that you could use ashes for anything, much less a wide variety of cleaning hacks and not only can you recycle ashes from a fireplace, but there are several ways you can use them in your yard and in the home.

Instead of tossing out your fireplace ashes, use them in one of these genius ways around your home and backyard. This is an easy way to recycle with several surprising benefits! You're not going to believe all the things you can with ashes from your fireplace.

Before starting always let the wood ashes cool, then get a good scoop and check out one of these Ash Hack!

12 Smart Ways to Reuse Fireplace Ashes Around Your Home and Garden

1. Polish Silver Naturally

Surprisingly, ashes can serve as a natural and cost-effective way to polish silver and other metals. Mix ashes with water to create a thick, spreadable paste. Dip a soft, non-abrasive rag into the paste, gently rub it onto the silver, and then rinse and wipe clean for a sparkling shine.

2. Adjust Soil pH for Better Plant Growth

Wood ashes are alkaline, making them ideal for balancing acidic soil. If your garden soil is too acidic for certain plants, sprinkle a small amount of ashes and mix it into the soil. Test the pH to ensure you achieve the desired balance before planting.

3. Deodorize Foul Odors

Much like baking soda, a small bowl of ashes placed in a refrigerator or other musty space can absorb unpleasant odors. The ashes also help reduce excess moisture, leaving the area fresher and drier.

4. Control Humidity in Damp Spaces

To reduce humidity in small, damp areas like bathrooms or basements, place a bowl of wood ashes in the space. They will naturally draw out moisture from the air, creating a more comfortable environment.

5. Melt Ice and Snow

Sprinkle wood ashes on icy or snowy walkways to improve traction and melt thin layers of ice. This eco-friendly alternative to chemical deicers can help prevent slips and falls without damaging your driveway or plants.

6. Fertilize Your Lawn

Save money on fertilizers by using wood ashes to nourish your lawn. The alkaline properties balance acidic soil and promote grass growth. Apply ashes sparingly, and water the grass after spreading to avoid over-application.

7. Remove Oil Stains from Driveways

Sprinkle wood ashes directly on oil stains in your driveway or garage. Let them sit for several hours to absorb the oil. Afterward, sweep up the ashes with a broom for a cleaner surface.

8. Clean Glass Surfaces

Wood ashes can act as a natural abrasive for cleaning glass. Sprinkle a small amount of ashes on a damp cloth or sponge, rub gently on glass fireplace doors or other glass surfaces, and rinse thoroughly for a streak-free shine.

9. Deter Garden Pests

Ashes are an effective natural pest repellent. Sprinkle a thin layer of ashes around flower or vegetable beds to deter slugs, snails, and other moisture-loving pests. The drying effect of the ashes keeps these critters at bay.

10. Make Homemade Bar Soap

Wood ashes can be used to create lye, a key ingredient in traditional soap-making. Combine ashes with water to produce lye and incorporate it into your homemade soap recipes for an all-natural product.

11. Enrich Your Compost

Boost the nutrient content of your compost by adding wood ashes in small amounts. Sprinkle a thin layer of ashes on top of your compost pile or indoor bucket each time you add organic scraps. This enhances the compost’s value for gardening.

12. Eliminate Musty Smells

To freshen up spaces with poor ventilation, such as closets, utility rooms, or basements, place a small bowl or tray of wood ashes in the area. The ashes absorb excess moisture and neutralize unpleasant odors, acting as an inexpensive deodorizer.