How to Clean Your Range Hood and Filters

A kitchen range hood has taken on more prominence as a focal point in the space. Range hoods are built out of many types of materials such as stainless steel, bronze and copper. Whether you have a range hood as a statement piece or a simple vent, it is important to keep it clean for optimal performance. If you are cooking with and using the hood daily, try to clean it monthly. If you aren’t cooking as often, then seasonal cleaning should be sufficient. Always clean it after a bigger holiday feast.

The range hood suctions up grease and food particles that naturally cling to the surfaces. Cleaning is essential not only to keep it looking and smelling better, but to also prevent a house fire. If a pot or pan is left on the stove for too long, flames can appear and if the range hood is greasy it can lead to extensive structural damage. As with any product, you should always reference the manufacturer’s manual before cleaning. This will give you a more specific procedure for taking care of your range hood.

What You’ll Need:

• Baking Soda
• Degreasing dishwashing liquid
• Boiling Water
• Soft nylon-bristle brush
• Spray-on degreaser
• Paper towels or cleaning rags

Cleaning a Range Hood Filter

Range hood filters all help catch grease and food before it enters the ductwork. Some are metal that can be cleaned and reused for many years while others are disposable charcoal filters. Check your manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning.

1. Remove the filter. To remove a reusable filter, either slide it out or find the latch that will pop out the rest of the filter.
2. Prepare a solution. Fill the sink with boiling water or use a large pot or baking dish that is heatproof. Add a tablespoon or two of dishwashing liquid to the water. Check that it contains a degreaser. Add 1/2 cup baking soda and mix the solution.
3. Soak the filter. Submerge the filter into the solution and let it soak for at least fifteen minutes. Try to remove it before the water cools completely or the grease will resettle on the filter.
4. Scrub and Rinse. Use the scrub brush to remove any grease and food particles that are still clinging onto the filter. Rinse with hot water and dry completely before placing in the range hood.

Cleaning the Range Hood Interior/Exterior

1. Apply degreaser to interior surfaces. Clear out the stovetop below as you may get drips. Spray on the degreaser and let it work for at least fifteen minutes.
2. Wipe away. Use paper towels to wipe away the cleaner and grime. For stubborn particles, spray a bit of degreaser on a nylon-bristled brush and scrub the area.
3. Rinse well. Dip a clean paper towel in warm water and rinse the interior to remove any remaining cleaner.
4. Cleaning the exterior surfaces. Depending on the material, use an appropriate cleaning product recommended for those finishes. To prevent streaks on stainless steel, use a drop or two of olive oil on a microfiber cloth for a final polish. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for other materials such as painted metal, copper and brass.

Source: the Spruce