Kitchen

How to Clean Range Hood

Keeping your range hood clean isn't just about appearance -- it's about hygiene and performance. Here's how to do it right, with the supplies you probably already have at home.

What You'll Need

  • Hot water
  • Soap-Man Turbo Clean Degreaser
  • Baking soda
  • Stiff brush
  • Large sink or bucket

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Remove the filter

    Slide or unlatch the metal filter from the underside of the range hood. Most pop out easily.

  2. 2

    Soak in hot water and degreaser

    Fill a sink or bucket with very hot water. Add degreaser and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Submerge the filter and soak 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Scrub the filter

    Use a stiff brush to scrub the filter while still in the hot water. The grease should release easily after soaking.

  4. 4

    Rinse thoroughly

    Rinse under hot running water until all degreaser is gone.

  5. 5

    Dry and reinstall

    Shake off excess water and let air dry completely before reinstalling. Wipe the underside of the hood while the filter is out.

Pro Tips

  • TIPClean the range hood filter every 1-3 months depending on cooking frequency.
  • TIPWipe the underside of the range hood while the filter is out -- grease drips down and accumulates here.
  • TIPReplace charcoal filters as recommended by the manufacturer (typically every 6 months).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XNever cleaning the filter, which is a fire hazard from accumulated grease.
  • XUsing bleach, which can corrode the metal mesh filter over time.
  • XPutting greasy filters in the dishwasher with other dishes, which redistributes grease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, on the top rack with no other dishes. Hand cleaning with degreaser is more effective for very greasy filters.