How to Clean a Range Hood

Your range hood will be covered in dust, dirt and greasy residue by the time you get around to cleaning it. A powerful cleaning solution designed for the task may be convenient, but a DIY method is a suitable alternative.

• If you don’t have a cleaning spray, one of the best degreasers for a range hood is hot water and degreasing dish soap, which you might already have on hand.
• A mixture of one part vinegar and one part water is effective in wiping off tough greasy stains. Baking soda is also useful for neutralizing the acidic compounds and breaking up stuck-on grease.
• There are many degreasing products that are eco-friendly. Made from natural ingredients, these degreasers remove tough stains and leave behind a pleasant scent in the kitchen.

Before deep cleaning your range hood, get a microfiber cloth or paper towel and your favorite grease-cutting cleaning spray. Another option is to pour one part vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle. Mix well before spraying over the outer side of the hood. Start by wiping down the outside of the range hood. Rub thoroughly to wipe off the accumulated dirt and dust.

Now that you’ve tackled the outside of the hood, it’s time to move on to that greasy underside. Much of what is left behind from oil spatters and smoke will have ended up here. This area is going to take a little more scrubbing. 

• Choose a cleaning brush designed to scrub without scratching delicate surfaces.
• Use the same cleaning solution to work at any grease and stains under your hood.
• If you notice tough stains do not come off, try mixing warm water and baking soda to make a thin paste.
• Work it into the stains and wipe away grease with a dry towel.
• Continue scrubbing as needed.

Every range hood features a stove hood filter. The filter absorbs smoke, grease and grime from stove top cooking and does clog over time. If the filter is not clean, the range hood won’t ventilate properly.
This is likely the dirtiest part of the entire process, so wearing cleaning gloves is advised. 

Most filters are secured to the range hood with a metal loop. Move that loop to the side, and the filter will pull out from the range hood. 

• Fill your sink basin with hot water, dish soap and baking soda.
• Soak the filter in the cleaning solution for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Use the same cleaning brush to start scrubbing away the now-loosened grease and grime.
• Continue scrubbing until the range hood grease filter is clean.
• Lay it out to dry.
• Once dry, it can be clipped back into place, and you can resume your cooking routine.

Tip: Metal filters can be sharp, so remove them carefully. 

While you are taking the time to clean the range hood, make sure to check the ductwork or vent that exits the house. Over the years, it is possible for grease and grime to build up in this vent, which can compromise the quality of your range hood. In severe cases, this can also start a fire. 

If you notice a build-up of grease during your cleaning process, call a professional specializing in kitchen appliances, as they'll know how to clean range hood ducts properly.