Your extractor fan filter is completely clogged with grease. Clean it effortlessly and it will look like new again.

 

Tools and materials needed:
Hot water,

Baking soda,

Dish soap (preferably grease-cutting),

A large basin or sink,

A soft brush or non-abrasive sponge,

Protective gloves (optional).

Step-by-step cleaning process:

Remove the filter: Carefully remove the filter from the range hood. Most filters can either be slid out or removed. If unsure, consult your range hood’s instruction manual.

Dust dry: Gently tap the filter over a trash can to remove loose particles. Then, use a soft brush to remove surface dust.

Prepare your cleaning solution: Fill your sink or basin with very hot water so that the filter is completely submerged. Add a generous squirt of dish soap and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of baking soda. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that helps break down grease without damaging the filter.

Soaking: Place your filter in the solution, ensuring it is completely submerged. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. Heavily soiled filters, however, benefit from longer soaking times, up to several hours.

Cleaning: After soaking, gently clean the filter with a soft brush or a non-abrasive sponge. Pay particular attention to the corners and edges, as these are where grease tends to accumulate.

Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the filter under hot, running water to remove grease and cleaning residue. Ensure the water runs clear; this indicates thorough cleaning.

Drying: Shake off any excess water and allow the filter to dry completely. You can either air dry it or pat it dry with a clean towel.

Reinstallation: Once the filter is dry, carefully reinsert it into the extractor hood. Ensure it is securely in place.

Method 3: Steam Cleaning
For those who prefer a hands-on approach, a steam cleaner is another effective way to clean the range hood filter. Steam cleaning uses hot steam to loosen and break down grease, allowing for a thorough cleaning. However, this method can be a bit more involved than soaking. Here’s how to clean your filter with a steam cleaner:

Safety first: Before you begin, make sure your steam cleaner is in good working order and that you are wearing protective gloves to avoid burns from the hot steam.

Prepare your work area: Since this method can be a bit messier, prepare your cleaning area by placing towels or newspapers under your work surface to catch any drips or grease.

Steam cleaning: Turn on your steam cleaner and wait for it to heat up. Once it’s ready, direct the steam at the filter and move it slowly across the surface. The steam loosens and melts the grease, which can then be wiped away with a cloth or sponge.

Wipe: After steam cleaning, wipe away loosened grease and dirt with a damp cloth or sponge. Rinse the cloth or sponge frequently if necessary to prevent further spreading of the grease.

Rinse and dry: Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water to remove all cleaning agents and grease residue. Shake off the excess water and allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling it.