Free ice melter

If you have a wood stove or fireplace or ashes left in an outdoor burner, save some of them to sprinkle on icy sidewalks. Ashes melt ice almost as quickly as salt - and they're free. AND they're better for the ground.

Cleaning glass fireplace doors

Got hazy glass fireplace or wood stove doors? Make a paste of baking soda paste mixed with the same amount of ashes and a little water. Apply with a cloth, then wipe off with newspapers.