Fireplace Accessories Have Many Uses

There are many different fireplace accessories suiting a whole host of needs. Each accessory does have a use, and some are very much needed to maintain a safe environment during use. Sometimes you will even find accessories that are designed to be decorative and blend in with your decor. These are merely there for show and not actually meant to be used. This may seem strange at first, but it is quite common in households around the world. A fireplace does need to be maintained periodically so having some items that serve a purpose is essential.

One year when I was visiting my aunt, I found out that some of her fireplace accessories weren't really meant to be used. I had decided that I would be helpful (or so I thought) and clean out her fireplace for her, then start a new fire in place of the old burnt ashes. And while she was happy that I took the initiative and wanted to help, she mentioned that some of the accessories I used were there just for looks. After noticing the shiny brass fireplace poker and shovel I started to understand what she was talking about.

When I was using them I initially thought she just took really good care of all of the brass accessories, but it didn't occur to me that they had never been used. I guess it's a good thing that I only cleaned out her fireplace once with them. But now I had a question in my mind about her fireplace. What did she use to clean it?

When I asked her this she opened a small cupboard next to the hearth where she had a nice set of cast iron fireplace accessories. While they did show a little wear and tear, I thought they looked just as nice as the brass set. She merely stated that she liked to showcase the nice set but keep the working set hidden from site.

Many years later I find myself owning my own home and fireplace. I have a full set of accessories designed for both show and use. I figure it gives our family room a more 'lived in' look by having the cleaning tools on display at all times. I also don't want to spend extra money buying two full sets of fireplace accessories. While I think it is great that my aunt had a nice brass set on display, I like my cast iron ones just as much. Plus they can get the job done when I need them.