How to clean a kitchen range hood

Kitchen range hood cleaning

If you’ve ever cooked a meal on your stovetop, you know how quickly grease and grime can build up on your range hood. Not only does this look unsightly, but it can also reduce the effectiveness of your appliance.

However, with the right tools and techniques, cleaning your range hood can be a quick and painless process. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the steps you need to know to keep your range hood sparkling clean and functioning like new.

Why should you clean your range hood

1. Fire hazard: Firstly, a dirty range hood can become a fire hazard. Grease and oil buildup can ignite, causing a fire that can quickly spread throughout your kitchen.
2. Efficiency: Secondly, a dirty range hood can reduce its efficiency in removing smoke, steam, and other cooking byproducts from the air. This can lead to unpleasant odors in your kitchen and even respiratory issues.
3. Unpleasant sight: Finally, a clean range hood simply looks better and can enhance the overall appearance of your kitchen. 

How often should you clean your kitchen range hood

The frequency with which you should clean your range hood depends on how often you use it and how much grease and grime accumulates on it.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that you clean your range hood at least once every few months. However, if you use your range hood frequently or if you cook greasy or oily foods, you may need to clean it more often.

Here are some signs that your range hood needs to be cleaned

• You notice a buildup of grease or oil on the surface of the range hood.
• The fan or motor is making unusual noises, which can indicate that it’s struggling to work properly due to a buildup of grease and dirt.
• There is a noticeable decrease in the efficiency of the range hood in removing smoke, steam, and other cooking byproducts from the air.

How to clean your kitchen range hood: The process

Range hood users manual

Read the user manual to know about the specifics of your range hood.

Gather cleaning tools and supplies

Tools:

• Screwdriver (to remove filters or access panels)
• Scraper or putty knife (to remove stubborn grease buildup)
• Soft-bristled brush (to clean fan blades, housing, and other components)
• Cleaning cloths or rags (to wipe down surfaces)
• Bucket (to mix cleaning solution and hold dirty water)
• Gloves (to protect your hands from chemicals and grease)
• Protective eyewear (to protect your eyes from cleaning solution and debris)

Supplies:

• Dish soap (to help cut through grease)
• Hot water (to dissolve grease and help loosen buildup)
• Baking soda (to absorb odors and help with scrubbing)
• Vinegar (to help break down grease and remove odors)
• Degreaser or all-purpose cleaner (to break down grease and grime)

Do you want to make your own homemade degreaser? Read our blog on how to make a DIY degreaser.

“I always clean before the cleaning lady comes. If not, when I come home, I can’t find anything. Cleaning ladies are always hiding things you leave out.”Celia Cruz

Disconnect the kitchen range hood

Turn off the range hood and unplug it from the wall to avoid any electrical hazards.

Remove range hood filters

Remove the filters from the range hood. Depending on the type, they may be located inside the hood or beneath it. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions if you’re not sure how to remove them.

Soak range hood filters

Fill a sink or large container with hot water and a small amount of dish soap. Place the filters in the water and let them soak for 10-15 minutes. If they are covered with a lot of grease, you may want to use a degreaser on them first, and place them in the soapy bath after.

Clean and rinse range hood filters

Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the filters gently. Be sure to clean all the surfaces, paying extra attention to any areas with heavy grease buildup.

Rinse the filters thoroughly with hot water to remove any soap residue. Allow them to dry completely before reinserting them into the range hood.

Clean range hood drip trays

If the range hood has a removable drip tray, remove it and clean it with hot water and your degreaser. Be sure to dry it completely before reinserting it.

Clean range hood exterior

Use your degreaser to clean the exterior surfaces of the range hood. Apply it onto a soft cloth or sponge, and then wipe down the surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface.

Wipe down the controls and any other areas of the range hood with a damp cloth.

How to maintain your range hood

1. Clean the filters regularly: The filters in your range hood should be cleaned regularly to prevent grease buildup and maintain good airflow. Depending on how often you use your range hood, you may need to clean the filters once a month or more often. Follow the cleaning process mentioned in the previous answer.
2. Check and clean the ductwork: The ductwork that vents air from your range hood to the outside can become clogged with grease and debris over time. Check the ductwork periodically and clean it as needed to maintain good airflow. This should be done by a professional if it is difficult to access.
3. Use the range hood properly: Always use the range hood when cooking to help prevent grease and smoke buildup in your kitchen. Be sure to run the hood for a few minutes after cooking to help clear the air.
4. Replace filters when needed: Over time, the filters in your range hood may become damaged or clogged beyond repair. Replace them as needed to maintain good airflow and prevent damage to the hood.
5. Check the fan and motor: The fan and motor in your range hood can become clogged or damaged over time. Check them periodically and clean or replace them as needed to maintain good airflow and prevent damage.
6. Avoid using abrasive cleaners: Harsh or abrasive cleaners can damage the finish of your range hood. Use only mild detergents and soft cloths or sponges to clean the hood.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on how to clean a kitchen range hood. We hope you found our tips and tricks helpful in keeping your kitchen clean and safe. Remember to incorporate regular range hood cleaning into your kitchen maintenance routine for a cleaner, safer, and fresher cooking environment.

If you have any questions or need help with the house cleaning process, please do not hesitate to contact us.