Painting Over Soot Stains

Vacuum the soot stain with a brush attachment to remove any loose soot.

Rub the stain with a soot sponge. This will remove most soot stains.

Dip a clean cloth in rubbing alcohol and dab the soot stain if the stain is still visible after using the soot sponge. Rinse the area with a cloth dipped in clean water. Let the area dry.

Place a drop cloth on the floor and line the edges and molding with painter's tape.

Pour primer into a paint tray. Paint the edges and trim with primer using a paint brush. Use a paint roller to paint the large, open areas with primer. Let dry overnight.

Clean the brush, roller, and paint tray. Pour paint into the paint tray and paint the edges and trim with a paint brush. Use a roller to cover the large areas with paint. Let dry overnight. Add a second coat.