Regular cleaning of your range hood filter will result in improved air quality in your home and a longer range hood lifespan. Here is how to tackle the job.
Time 15-30 minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$10-$20
Introduction
These steps will help you clean grime from your range hood filter to keep your kitchen air fresh and your range hood performing at its best.
The next time you are thoroughly cleaning your kitchen, glance under the range hood and check out how dirty and greasy the filter is. It’s important to clean your range hood filters every few months— maybe more often if you cook frequently.
Whether you have a mesh or steel filter, these five quick steps will make your filters shine. I’m always looking for ways to reduce my environmental foot print, and replacing common dish soap with a natural home cleaning product will help keep your filter and the environment clean. With a quick soak and some elbow grease, your filter will be shining in no time.
Tools Required
- Scrub brush or sponge
Materials Required
- Baking soda
- Dish soap or Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner (degreaser)
- Hot water
- Towels
Watch How to Clean a Range Hood Filter
Project step-by-step (7)
Step 1
Set up a drying station
Set up a drying station on a table or countertop. I like to use flour sack towels— they’re lightweight, dry quickly and are excellent for wiping down steel.
Step 2
Fill sink with cleaning mix
- Fill the sink with hot water. If need be, boil some water and add it to the sink water so it is nice and hot.
- Add 2-4 squirts of Sals Suds into the water.
- Add 1/2-cup of baking soda.
- Stir until baking soda is dissolved.
Step 3
Remove range hood filters
Review the manual of your range hood, but most have a pull tab that when engaged pops the filters out of the range hood.
Step 4
Soak the filter in the sink
Let the filters soak for about 15 minutes.
Step 5
Use a scrub brush
Scrub the filters with a soft bristled cleaning brush or sponge—using the mixture in the tub. Add Sal Subs directly to the brush to help the degreaser get into the crevices.
Rinse with clean water. If more work needs to be done, drain and refill the sink with the mixture and soak for another 15 minutes.
Step 6
Let them dry
Once they’re shiny, place the filters onto the towels and let them air dry overnight.
Step 7
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I clean my range hood filter?
Most professionals agree that filters should be cleaned every two to three months. But if you tend to fry a lot of foods and use a lot of oil, you might need to clean it more frequently. Note that after several cleanings mesh filters may begin to look worn out and have small tears. If this happens you should simply replace the range hood filters instead of trying to clean them again.
Can you put range hood filters in the dishwasher?
Metal range hood filters or mesh range hood filters are able to be placed in the top rack of a dishwasher. This should be the only thing in the dishwasher so other food stuffs do not get clogged in the filter during the washing cycle. However, it is recommended to check the manufacturer for recommendations on best practices for washing in a dishwasher. Some recommend high heat to help cut grease, while others recommend lower temperatures.
Can range hood charcoal filters be washed?
Carbon filters cannot be washed, but rather it should be replaced. However, the range hood and surrounding components should be washed and maintained to keep it working well.
