Your kitchen might look spotless, but if the vent hood filter is filthy, you’re only halfway there. When it’s clogged, all that mess from cooking just floats back into your home.
The good news? Cleaning it is really simple and makes a world of difference!
So, if you want your kitchen to be fresh, safe, and running smoothly, this is the place to learn how to clean vent hood filters.
Let’s delve straight into it!
Identify the Type of Filter
Before you start scrubbing, the first step is to determine the type of filter you have.
Most kitchen hoods are fitted with either a metal mesh filter or a charcoal one. Metal mesh filters, typically made of aluminium or stainless steel, are reusable and easy to clean. They’re your best bet if you’re into regular maintenance and want to avoid constant replacements.
Charcoal filters do a different job. They neutralise smells but aren’t meant for cleaning. Replace them every three to six months, as they cannot withstand water or scrubbing.
As for their appearance, metal filters feature rigid silver grids with fine mesh. If you hold them up, light will shine through. Charcoal types, on the other hand, appear darker, thicker, and block most light.
Sometimes, there’s a label or stamp on the filter itself, so have a close look along the edges.
Unsure which type you have? Check the manual if it’s still around. If you can’t find it, no worries. Check for the model number on the cooker hood or look it up online—most manufacturers have diagrams that make it pretty simple.
Local cleaners explain that if you clean a charcoal filter the same way as a metal one, you’ll damage it. Knowing your filter type means your effort won’t go to waste, and the hood will continue to do its job properly.
Gather Your Supplies
Next up, gather your tools. You’ll need warm water, a decent washing-up liquid, a bit of bicarb, and possibly a kitchen degreaser if the grime is caked on. You should also choose a sponge or a gentle brush that won’t scratch the surfaces.
For stubborn grime, an old toothbrush tackles tight corners perfectly. Don’t forget to set out a clean towel for drying afterwards as well.
Supermarkets and hardware shops stock degreasers for serious dirt. But in most cases, a strong washing-up liquid will get you most of the way there.
In any case, we recommend wearing rubber gloves unless you enjoy greasy hands and chemical contact!
Soak the Filter
Soaking makes a world of difference if you’re dealing with tough marks. Fill up your sink or a large bowl with hot, not lukewarm, water. Add washing-up liquid generously and stir in a couple of tablespoons of soda bicarbonate. The mix should bubble just a bit.
Lower the filter into the water so it’s fully submerged and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the level of grime. Extremely dirty filters might need even longer. If you’re likely to forget it’s in there, you can set a timer.
Don’t skip this step. It does the heavy lifting for you, so the scrubbing step requires less effort.
Scrub Gently
After soaking, it’s time to attack the dirt. Use your soft brush or sponge to scrub lightly in circular patterns. Work on the frame, mesh, and particularly those grimy corners.
For tough grease, grab that old toothbrush for narrow spaces. Skip abrasive materials like steel wool—they damage metal and shorten the filter’s lifespan.
If the spots won’t budge, apply the degreaser, wait a minute, then try again gently. Patience pays off here. Scrubbing like you’re sanding a deck won’t do your filter any favours.
Rinse and Dry
Once you’re satisfied with the results, rinse the filter under hot running water. Hold it at different angles to ensure that all soap, grease, and gunk are flushed out. Don’t leave suds behind, since they’ll attract grime again quicker than you’d think.
Now, give it a gentle shake to remove excess water. Lay it flat on a clean towel and let it air dry. A few hours are usually enough, but leaving it overnight is ideal if you’ve got the time.
Never reinstall a damp filter. It’s a fast track to mould, musty smells, and rust. Pressed for time? Use a hairdryer on low speed for drying (although air drying is safer). Some people even use cooling racks to improve the airflow underneath.
Clean the Interior
While the filter’s drying, it’s a perfect time to clean inside the hood itself. Get a microfibre cloth, dampen it with warm soapy water, and wipe down the inner surfaces. Use gentle soap and avoid harsh products.
Work your way around the fan and any exposed surfaces. Then, let the soap sit on sticky spots for a minute before wiping it away. Don’t forget to switch off the power beforehand, especially if you’re working near the lights or fan blades.
This will help you clear out the grease that would otherwise drip down while you’re cooking. It also prevents dust and debris from clogging the airflow. Do it monthly and it’ll save you a lot of hassle later.
Reinstall the Parts and Stick to a Routine
When the filter’s completely dry, slot it back into the hood, making sure it fits snugly with no gaps around the edges. A loose filter means air leaks, which defeats the purpose.
Think about your cooking habits. Daily fry-ups and spicy stir-fries mean more grease, which means more frequent cleaning. If you cook often, clean the filter monthly. If not, every three months should do it.
Mark it on your calendar or set a recurring phone alert. Even scribbling the date of your last cleaning session on a sticky note can keep you on track.
Some people even keep a home maintenance log with notes on other appliance care. It sounds fussy, but it’ll save you from expensive repairs and help everything last longer.
Conclusion
Don’t wait until your vent hood groans under a coat of grease—clean it now and feel the difference instantly. After all, that little filter does a massive job, and keeping it fresh means fewer smells, better airflow, and a much cleaner kitchen.
So, grab the gloves, set your reminder, and make filter cleaning part of your routine. Don’t put it off, and you’ll always manage to keep your kitchen in peak condition!
Singh is an experienced spiritual writer and the resident author at Guruvanee.com. With a deep passion for exploring the mystical aspects of life, Singh delves into various spiritual traditions, philosophies, and practices to inspire readers on their spiritual journeys.