Chimney cleaning is the process of removing soot, creosote, and debris from the inside of a chimney to ensure safe and efficient operation. Regular cleaning helps prevent chimney fires and improves the performance of wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. During a chimney cleaning, a professional chimney sweep uses specialized tools to scrub the chimney walls and remove any buildup. This maintenance task is recommended at least once a year, especially for homes that use their fireplace frequently. Proper cleaning can also help reduce harmful emissions and improve indoor air quality.