What is the best for cleaning a wood stove?

[GAJON]

The outside has some random "stains" on it. What type of metal cleaner should I use? It is a cast iron stove, I guess?

 

[CrappieKeith]

The outside has some random "stains" on it. What type of metal cleaner should I use? It is a cast iron stove, I guess?

Water and a steel brush.....when done get hot to vaporize the water then to go the extra mile paint with high temp paint. Then burn off again.....it'll look new.
Note...make sure you have good ventilation.

 

[woodbooga]

Water and a steel brush.....when done get hot to vaporize the water then to go the extra mile paint with high temp paint. Then burn off again.....it'll look new.
Note...make sure you have good ventilation.

Yup. If possible, make this a spring or summer project.

Last time I did this was a couple autumns ago - late in Sept. before we really got the stove going. At the time my wife was carrying, so we coordinated a day when she'd be away and I could keep the windows and a door open.

Also a good time to seal up any spots that might need it, firebrick maint. in the firebox, etc.