Cleaning a Dirty Range Hood Filter

Do you ever take a close look at the range hood filter above your stove? You may be surprised or even alarmed by how dirty and greasy it looks. And if you touch it, how sticky it is.

Every time you cook, oils escape into the air through steam and smoke. If that smoke isn’t properly vented outside, it settles on your counters, cabinets, walls, and ceiling, creating an even bigger mess over time.

While the exterior of the vent hood is easy to see and clean, there’s more to it. The interior fan and its filter also collect grease and grime every time the fan runs. The same airborne grease that sticks to your kitchen surfaces gets trapped in the filter and fan components, gradually building up.

Over time, it can take considerable effort to clean. The longer you let it sit, the harder the job becomes. However, regular maintenance makes cleaning easier and helps keep your kitchen looking and feeling fresh.

Think of it this way: cleaning your range hood involves two distinct tasks – one for the visible exterior and another for the interior parts, like the fan and filter. Staying on top of both ensures a cleaner, more efficient kitchen in the long run.

How Often Should you Clean the Range Hood Filter?

The frequency of cleaning the filter depends on how often you cook and the types of dishes you prepare. Here’s a general rule of thumb:

• For regular cooks: Clean your range hood filter every 2–3 months.
• For frequent fryers or stir-fry enthusiasts: Monthly cleanings are ideal.
• For occasional cooks: You can extend cleanings to every 4–6 months.
• After major cooking events: Always clean the filter after big meals, like holiday feasts, to prevent grease buildup.

Signs the Filter Needs to be Cleaned

• Visible grease and grime.
• The range hood is noisier than usual.
• It struggles to clear smoke or cooking odors effectively.

What You’ll Need to Clean Range Hood Filter

• Hot water
• Degreasing dish soap (like Dawn)
• Baking soda
• A non-abrasive scrub brush or sponge

How to Clean a Range Hood Filter

Note: Charcoal filters (used in ductless systems) cannot be cleaned and should be replaced when dirty.

Remove the Filter

Look for a latch, tab, or loop under the hood. Push or slide to remove the filter.

Prepare Hot Water

Fill the sink with very hot water.

Add Soap and Baking Soda

Mix in a enough dish soap for grease removal and 1/4 cup of baking soda. The water is hot so use a pair of kitchen gloves to keep your hands safe. Swish around until soapy.

Soak the Filter

Submerge the filter fully in the hot, soapy water. Let it soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Scrub Gently

Use a non-abrasive brush or sponge to clean the grease from the filter. Add more dish soap if needed.

Rinse Clean

Rinse the filter thoroughly with hot water to remove all soap and residue.

Dry and Replace

Pat dry with a clean cloth or paper towels. Let it air-dry completely before reinstalling.

Maintaining the Range Hood Filter

1. Don’t skip regular cleaning. Grease buildup becomes harder to remove over time, so stick to a consistent cleaning schedule.
2. Avoid using abrasive tools. Harsh scrubbing can damage the filter, especially if it’s made of aluminum or stainless steel.
3. Dishwasher-safe filter: Check the owner’s manual as some filters are dishwasher safe. If yours are, run them through a gentle cycle before soaking and scrubbing for extra grease removal.
4. Use a degreaser spray. For stubborn spots, a kitchen degreaser spray can help break down grease before soaking.

Keeping the range hood filter clean not only ensures better air quality in your kitchen but also extends the lifespan of the appliance. A clogged filter forces the range hood to work harder, potentially leading to repairs.