how to go about cleaning a fireplace before starting to burn wood?

Answer 1

Just sweep it out really well. As far as the chimney goes tho, I think the general rule is that you should have a chimney sweep in every other year or after burning a cord of wood, whichever is sooner.

Answer 2

If you have a glass door on your fireplace, to clean easily, simply take some of the ashes and mix with water. Use the mixture to clean the glass. It will remove the soot that Windex can't clean.

Answer 3

With a broom and some elbow grease.
Dont'worry about the ash marks it is part of the mistique of a fireplace.