How to Clean Your Vent Hood and Filters

Keeping a range hood clean is usually far down on our to-do list, and honestly, what a miss. It's so satisfying! And the house smells so much cleaner when air isn't flowing through caked-on grease. While other chores often take precedence, it's obvious that a clean kitchen exhaust fan keeps greasy filters clean and your kitchen air quality pristine. Whether it's a cabinet hood, outdoor hood, or an industrial range hood over your island's kitchen range, learn how to keep your kitchen ventilation system in good shape, especially before and after a major cooking event.

Materials and Tools You'll Need

• Degreasing cleaning product (commercial degreaser)

• Hot water

• Dish soap

• Microfiber cloths

• Rubber Gloves

• Goggles

• Screwdriver (optional)

• Soft-bristled scrub brush or toothbrush

• Stainless steel polish

Cleaning a Vent Hood in 5 Steps

1. Prepare the Area for the Cleaning Process

• Turn off the vent hood and disconnect the power source to ensure safety.

• Lay down protective coverings on the cooking surface as well as any nearby surfaces. There are bound to be drips (if not from grease, from the cleaner).

• Put on gloves and goggles to protect yourself from cleaning chemicals and splashes.

2. Clean the Fan and Motor Components

• Carefully remove the range hood fan cover and any other removable parts from the exhaust vent to access the fan and blower motor components.

• Gently scrub away dirt and tough debris from the fan blades and motor components using a soft cleaning brush or toothbrush dipped in a bit of degreaser.

• Be careful: Avoid damaging any electrical connections or moving parts.

3. Clean the Range Hood Filters

• Determine the type of filter your range hood has (metal mesh, stainless steel baffle filter, carbon filter, or a combination vent filter). The manufacturer will have specific instructions that will help you clean tough grease. Most commonly, the instructions are going to have you remove the grease filters from the vent hood, and soak them in hot, soapy water for at least 10-15 minutes. Soaking will help loosen the grease and grime.

• Use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the entire filter. Degreaser soap and some elbow grease go a long way.

• Rinse the metal filter thoroughly with clean water.

4. Dry and Reassemble the Vent Hood

• Allow all components of the hood vent, including the clean range hood filter, to air dry completely.

• Carefully reinstall the fan cover and any other removable parts, ensuring they are securely tightened.

• Double-check all screws or bolts to ensure they are properly fastened.

5. Clean Fingerprints and Grime From the Exhaust Hood

A clean vent hood only looks clean if the exterior is spotless. After cleaning the stove hood filter and other components, there are sure to be smudges and fingerprints, so I always save this step for last. Remember that regular cleaning of the exterior is the easiest way to keep your vent hood looking its best.

• Dust the surface with a dry microfiber cloth.

• Mix a degreasing cleaner into a bowl of warm soapy water to effectively remove grease and grime buildup. Follow the instructions on the cleaner to create the proper ratio.

• Wipe down the exterior of the vent hood with a microfiber cloth, paying special attention to areas prone to grease buildup such as around the fan vents and control knobs.

• Plug the vent hood back in and test it to ensure everything is functioning properly.

How to Clean Grease Off Kitchen Cabinetry

1. Dust and Wipe Down: Begin by dusting the cabinetry with a soft cloth or microfiber duster to remove any loose debris or particles. Then, dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and gently wipe down the surfaces to remove dirt and grime.
   

2. Dry the Surfaces Thoroughly: After cleaning, use a dry towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent water spots or streaks from forming.
   

3. Polish (if applicable): If your cabinetry has a glossy finish, consider applying a wood polish or furniture wax to restore shine and protect the surface. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
   

Related: 9 Ways to Improve Your Kitchen’s Ventilation System

FAQs

How often should I clean my vent hood?

In many respects, it varies by how often you cook at home, and what kind of food you prepare! Cleaning the fan and motor components once every three months can prevent grease buildup and maintain performance. However, if you cook often or notice excessive grease accumulation, a more frequent cleaning schedule, such as monthly cleaning, is recommended.

Can I use vinegar to clean my stainless steel vent hood?

While vinegar is often recommended for cleaning grease and stains, it's not recommended for cleaning stainless steel surfaces. Vinegar is acidic, and a harsh cleaner in this application. It can potentially damage the protective layer of stainless steel, causing it to corrode over time. It's safer to use a specialized stainless steel cleaner formulated for this job.

Related: How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances

Can I clean my vent hood filters with baking soda?

Yes, baking soda can be an effective natural cleaner for vent hood filters, especially for removing grease and stubborn stains:

• First, remove the mesh filters from the vent hood and soak them in a mixture of hot water and baking soda for about 15-30 minutes.

• Scrub the filters gently with a soft brush or sponge to loosen any remaining grease and grime.

• Rinse the filters thoroughly with clean water and allow them to air dry completely before reinstalling them in the vent hood.

How often should you replace the vent hood filters?

As a general guideline, replace standard mesh or baffle filters every 6 to 12 months, or more frequently if you cook frequently or notice reduced airflow and performance. Replace carbon or charcoal filters every 3 to 6 months, as they more effectively absorb odors when they're new.

Related: Buying a Range Hood for the Kitchen? Avoid These Common Mistakes