Clean oven hood filters: Best hacks to keep the grease away

Have you checked your kitchen’s range hood for dirt and grime? It might be time to clean oven hood filters, especially if the cooking range is making loud noises or not effectively clearing smoke.

The main function of the range hood is to remove smoke, grease, soot, and toxins from the kitchen when you cook. Some systems have vents that lead outside the home, and they vent some of these impurities outside, while others recycle the air and let comparatively clean air back into the kitchen.

The main component responsible for filtering out the grease from your cooking is found on the underside of the hood and is called the range hood filter. Cleaning these filters regularly is necessary if you want your hood to function efficiently. 

We’re going to show you useful ways to clean oven hood filters, the best filter degreaser, and more.

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How to check if your oven hood filter is working properly?

A great method for checking the proper functioning of your vent is to place a piece of newspaper over it. If the paper is drawn in and stays in place, you can be confident that your vent is working effectively.

What are the signs of a nonfunctional kitchen range hood?

There are specific signs indicating that it’s time to clean the hood. For instance, if smoke fails to clear from the room even when the hood is set to its highest setting, it could be an indication that the filter or ductwork is clogged with grease and requires cleaning. Another indicator is a loud or constant humming sound coming from the motor, which could imply that the motor or fan needs cleaning to restore proper functionality.

Read more: How to clean kitchen

Can you wash the filter in the dishwasher?

Yes, you can. This cleaning method is probably the easiest one. 

• Remove the filters from the range hood.
• Place them in the bottom rack of your dishwasher.
• Wash them with a regular load of dishes.
• The only thing you will need to pay special attention to is the kind of detergent you use. Avoid using anything with bleach or other harsh chemicals.
• Once the cycle is done, wipe the filters using a paper towel or a soft cloth. Remember, always wipe in the direction of the grain on the stainless steel filters.
• Make sure the filters are completely dry before putting them back in place.

How to clean oven hood filters by hand?

• Detach the filter from the range hood.
• Fill your kitchen sink halfway up with warm water or hot water. Add some dish soap to it.
• Soak the filters in soapy water for at least 15 to 20 minutes.
• Rotate them if they aren’t fully submerged in the water.

• Scrub the filters gently using a scrub brush or a soft sponge.
• Rinse the filters in warm water and dry them using a microfiber cloth or a dishcloth. 

How to get rid of stubborn grease buildup off your range hood?

Keep in mind that easy and quick hacks to clean range hood filters work only if the filters are cleaned regularly. If you haven’t cleaned yours in a while, you need deep cleaning.

• Locate the filter underneath the hood, facing down onto the cooktop.
• To remove the reusable filter, either slide it out or use the latch to pop it out.
• Prepare the cleaning solution by filling a sink, large pot, or heatproof glass baking dish with boiling water.
• Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid that contains a degreaser, along with 1/2 cup of baking soda, and mix the solution thoroughly.
• Submerge the filter in the solution and allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes, letting the cleaners do the work.
• Remove the soaking filter before the water cools entirely to prevent grease resettling.
• Use a scrub brush to remove any grease or food particles still clinging to the filter.
• Rinse the filter well with hot water and ensure it is thoroughly dried before placing it back in the range hood.
• Clean the range hood surfaces by applying degreaser or a homemade vinegar solution, and let it work for at least 15 minutes.
• Wipe away the degreaser and grime using paper towels, and use a nylon-bristled brush with some degreaser for any stubborn areas. Finish by wiping away any remaining residue.
• Rinse the interior with a clean paper towel or cloth dipped in warm water to remove any remaining cleaner.

How to clean charcoal filters?

While baffle filters and mesh filters can be removed, cleaned, and reinstalled, you cannot do that with charcoal filters. These need to be replaced after every 120 hours of cooking, or approximately once every six months. 

While baffle filters and mesh filters are made of stainless steel, charcoal filters are carbon filters. These are normally found in ductless hoods. Charcoal filters are found in pairs, with one on either side of the range hood blower.

How often should you clean oven hood filters?

It depends on your cooking frequency. If you cook daily, it’s recommended to clean both the inside and outside of the hood, along with the filter, on a monthly basis. However, if you don’t cook as frequently, seasonal cleaning should suffice. Additionally, after preparing a holiday feast, always remember to clean the filter, even if you don’t clean the rest of the hood.

How to make your kitchen range hood cleaner for a longer time?

Regular maintenance is of utmost importance. Irrespective of how you choose to clean your range hood filters, it is important to stick to a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule. By cleaning your filters at least once a month and then deep cleaning them once every three months, you will make sure that your range hood functions optimally. It will help you maintain healthy indoor air quality and to keep your family safe.

Read more: Kitchen hood fire suppression system inspection

Want help keeping your range hood clean?

The smartest way to go about your home maintenance is to utilize the invaluable app Kukun MyMaintenance™. It will assist you in effectively managing all your regular home maintenance tasks. Simply put, the platform allows homeowners to conveniently schedule projects and easily connect with service providers.

All you have to do is sign up with Kukun and add the task “Clean oven and range” to your home maintenance calendar for a particular time frame. You will get timely reminders to complete the task and get in touch with the service providers. 

You can even schedule tasks such as cleaning rain gutters, yard maintenance, window cleaning, and changing or replacing HVAC filters. 

What’s more, you even get access to a proprietary Property Condition Score which can be really helpful in comparing your home value to the other houses in the neighborhood. And, it gives you inputs on how to enhance your home equity through the right remodeling projects. 

Last thoughts

Regular cleaning of your oven hood and filters plays a crucial role in averting potential fire hazards caused by grease and fat buildup. Additionally, it optimizes the performance of your oven and range while eliminating unpleasant odors from your living space. 

Home maintenance, especially kitchen cleaning, need not be a dreaded chore for you. With Kukun My Maintenance by your side, it won’t take you a lot of time and effort to keep your abode clean and in tip-top shape.

Read more: Ducted vs ductless range hoods

Written by Narayan Shrouthy. April 18, 2022

Narayan is a content writer for Kukun. With experience in both content writing and editing, Narayan mixes his writing and love for reading with his passion for music. As an active musician, He aims to be a key player in Kukun's content experience.

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xavier.chavez1@outlook.es(@xavier-chavez1outlook-es)

I use all these hacks, thanks