Cleaning and Stain Removal - Fireplace Redecoration (Soot Cleaning)

I have a brick fireplace that I would like to redecorate and I want to keep the brick feel, but it is very sooty-is there a good method for dealing with this that anyone knows of? or a faux brick paint to keep it looking like brick?
thanks

Before bringing out any cleaners, vacuum off as much soot as possible with shop vacuum. Then brush with stiff brush and vacuum again. Make sure area is covered with drop cloth for protection of surrounding area. You might want to wear a dust mask.

There are special chemically treated sponges that can be used for soot removal. These are called 'dry sponges' and are used dry. They work like a giant eraser. Depending on size of affected area, you may want to pick up two or three at the janitorial supply, hardware, or home center. When one side gets very dirty, you can take a razor scraper and shave off the dirty layer to expose clean sponge.

Then, you cover hearth and surrounding area with plastic drop cloth to wash brick. There are commercial soot cleaners available at hearth stores and hardwares and home centers. Or, you can purchase orange cleaner concentrate and mix with water to desired dilution. (Orange cleaner concentrate is used commercially as a degreaser for engines and garage floors. Do not purchase the orange-whatever products that are already diluted.) Scrub and rinse with plain water. Repeat if necessary until brick is clean. If soot is cleaned off, you will have your brick! Paint should not be applied over soot due to adhesion problems.

You should also call a chimney professional to inspect and clean chimney and to address why there is a soot problem. This is important for your health and safety.