Once a homeowner has a fireplace, having fireplace accessories is not far behind. Fireplace accessories serve a variety of purposes.

Some are needed for safety. Some are needed for cleaning and maintenance. Some are needed for decoration and some fireplace accessories are just for fun.

For wood burning fireplaces it is important to have a log grate that is the proper size and height. Other fireplace accessories which are important for safety are a retractable curtain which may be coupled with fireplace doors or a fire screen. A poker and a shovel are also necessary fireplace tools. The poker will aid in positioning burning logs. The shovel will be used both to move embers while the fire is burning and to clean the fireplace once the fire is out. A basket or bin to hold kindling and other fuel can also be useful. Although not specifically a fireplace accessory there should always be a fire extinguisher in close proximity to any fireplace.

Once clean up has begun a small broom and dustpan will be essential fireplace accessories. Some people also have hand vacuums which they reserve for duty cleaning out the peskiest of fireplace ashes. Fireproof buckets for the disposal of embers and ashes are also indispensable fireplace accessories. Many of these fireplace accessories come packaged as coordinated sets.

After the basic fireplace accessories are in place then it’s time to choose a few items just to enhance enjoyment of the fireplace. Special fire safe powders which turn the fire’s flames different colors can be fun on a winter night. There are also powders and incense sticks which can be added to the fire to elevate its fragrance. Fireplace accessories that make it possible to use the fireplace for light cooking are also available; these include containers for roasting corn and other vegetables. Spits for cooking meat can also be found. However, remember that using the fireplace as a stove can add considerably to clean up and maintenance. There are also special safety considerations when cooking in a fireplace. An old fashioned popcorn popper is one of the simplest fireplace accessories for cooking. Not only is it relatively safe, it requires little in the way of washing.

So once the fireplace is installed don’t forget the fireplace accessories. First buy the fireplace accessories required for safety. Second buy the fireplace accessories required for cleaning and maintenance. Third buy some fireplace accessories just for beauty and pleasure.