How to Clean Extractor Hood: how to clean extractor hood tips

Knowing how to clean an extractor hood properly is about much more than a quick wipe-down. To really do the job right, you need to tackle the grease that builds up in the filters, canopy, and fan, which is crucial for both safety and performance. The whole process involves a bit of prep, carefully removing the filters, giving them a good soak in a degreasing solution, cleaning all the surfaces, and putting it all back together again.

Why a Clean Extractor Hood Matters More Than You Think

That sticky, yellowish film coating your extractor hood isn't just an eyesore—it’s a real hazard hiding in plain sight. It’s one of those chores many of us put off, not realising that a dirty hood can seriously affect safety, air quality, and even how much energy you use. Think of it less as another cleaning task and more as essential maintenance for a healthier kitchen.

At its core, your extractor is designed to pull grease, smoke, and cooking smells out of the air. But when the filters and surfaces get clogged, the whole system grinds to a halt. This leads to a few significant problems that you really can't afford to ignore.

The Hidden Risks of a Dirty Hood

Let's be blunt: a greasy extractor fan is a serious fire hazard. All that built-up fat is incredibly flammable and can easily catch fire from a single spark or a flare-up on the hob. Fire safety experts often highlight grease build-up as a top cause of preventable kitchen fires.

But the danger doesn't stop there. A clogged hood has a direct impact on your home's environment in other ways, too.

• Poor Air Quality: When the fan can't pull air through, it can't get rid of airborne particles, smoke, and steam. This is why you end up with lingering cooking smells and a stuffy, unpleasant atmosphere long after dinner is over.
• Reduced Efficiency: The motor has to work much harder to drag air through blocked filters. This strain doesn't just drive up your energy bills; it can also shorten the appliance's lifespan, setting you up for an expensive repair or replacement down the line.
• Hygiene Concerns: That warm, greasy environment is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Worse, that grime can start to drip back down onto your hob or, even more worryingly, into your food. This makes understanding how to prevent cross-contamination absolutely essential for a safe kitchen.

By learning how to clean an extractor hood correctly, you're not just tidying up. You're actively reducing fire risks, improving your kitchen's air quality, and ensuring your appliance runs efficiently for years to come.

Getting Kitted Out for a Safe and Effective Clean

Before you even think about tackling that greasy hood, a little prep work will make the whole job faster and safer. Think of it as setting the stage. Getting your gear sorted first means you can get stuck in without any last-minute dashes for supplies or, worse, causing any damage.

First up, and this is the most important bit: turn off the power at the mains. It's a simple flick of a switch that removes any risk of electric shock. Don't skip it. Next, throw an old towel or a dust sheet over your hob. This will catch any drips and bits of grime, saving you a second cleaning job later. Finally, crack open a window to get some air moving – some degreasers can be quite potent.

Your Cleaning Arsenal

The good news is you probably have most of what you need already. You don't need a shelf full of fancy potions; a few household staples will cut through years of kitchen grease.

A decent pair of rubber gloves is a must-have to keep hot water and cleaning solutions off your skin. If you're dealing with sharp-edged metal filters, you might even want something a bit more substantial to avoid any nicks. You can find a helpful guide on choosing cutting-proof gloves here if you want to be extra careful.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to grab:

• A Degreaser: A good shop-bought kitchen degreaser is a solid choice, but honestly, a simple mix of bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar is often just as good, if not better.
• Soft Cloths: You can't go wrong with microfibre cloths. They grab onto dirt and won't leave scratches, which is especially important for stainless steel finishes.
• A Soft Brush: An old toothbrush is perfect for this. It's great for getting right into the mesh of the filters and other fiddly bits without being too harsh.
• A Big Pot or Basin: You'll need something large enough to completely submerge the filters for a good soak. The kitchen sink, with the plug in, works a treat.

With these bits and bobs ready, you’re all set. The whole point of learning how to clean an extractor hood properly is doing it safely and getting a great result, not just giving it a quick wipe.

Choosing Your Weapon: Degreasers

When it comes to the actual cleaning agent, you’re looking at two main paths: buy a commercial product or make your own.

Commercial degreasers are powerful, no doubt. They’re designed for one job – dissolving tough kitchen grease – and they do it well. Just be sure to read the label. You need to make sure it's safe for your hood's material, as some harsh chemicals can damage aluminium or certain finishes.

On the other hand, a homemade solution is cheap, eco-friendly, and surprisingly effective. Bicarbonate of soda is a brilliant, mild abrasive that helps to lift off all that baked-on gunk. White vinegar, being a natural acid, just melts grease away. For really stubborn patches, making a thick paste from bicarb and a little water and applying it directly works wonders. For most kitchens, these two simple ingredients are all you’ll ever need to get your extractor hood gleaming again.

Getting Your Extractor Hood Filters Properly Clean

The filters are the real workhorses of your extractor hood, silently trapping all that grease and stopping cooking smells from taking over your home. Getting them clean is the most critical part of the job, but how you do it all comes down to what type of filter you have.

Let’s get into the right way to handle each one.

Most extractor hoods in UK kitchens have one of two kinds: washable metal mesh filters or disposable charcoal/fabric ones. Before you dive in, you need to work out which you're dealing with. It’s usually easy to tell just by looking. Metal filters are silvery and have a distinct grid pattern, while charcoal filters are typically black and have a texture more like a dense sponge or a fabric pad.

This diagram shows the first three things you absolutely must do before you even think about touching the filters.

Seriously, don't skip these prep steps. Powering off, covering your hob, and getting some air flowing are non-negotiable for a safe and mess-free clean.

Tackling Metal Grease Filters

If you’ve got metal mesh filters, good news – they’re designed to be cleaned and used again and again. The main goal here is to dissolve that thick, sticky grease that’s clogging up the mesh. When that builds up, it can seriously weaken your hood's suction power.

While some modern filters can go in the dishwasher, I find a proper deep soak is far more effective, especially for really stubborn grime.

Here’s a powerful, yet simple, degreasing method that works a treat:

• Get the filters out carefully. Most have a simple latch or clip, letting them pop right out. Just be ready for them to be a bit slippery.
• Mix your soaking solution. Fill your sink or a large basin with boiling water straight from the kettle. Add a good shake of bicarbonate of soda (around 60-80 grams) and a decent squirt of washing-up liquid.
• Submerge and let it work its magic. Pop the greasy filters into the hot solution, making sure they’re completely covered. Now, leave them to soak for at least 30 minutes.

You’ll quickly see the water turn a murky brown as all that grease just melts away. This soak really does the heavy lifting for you. In fact, professional cleaning standards highlight that a proper soak is key, as just scrubbing by hand often isn't enough to shift deep-seated grime. You can find more insights on cleaning efficacy at marketreportanalytics.com.

Once they've had a good soak, grab a soft, non-abrasive brush (an old toothbrush is perfect for this) and gently scrub off any stubborn bits left behind. Rinse them thoroughly under hot running water, then let them air dry completely before popping them back in.

Top Tip: Whatever you do, don't use harsh scourers or steel wool on metal filters. It’s a sure-fire way to damage the delicate mesh, which will make them less effective at trapping grease down the line.

Dealing with Charcoal or Fabric Filters

Unlike their metal cousins, charcoal and fabric filters are not meant to be washed. You’ll find these in recirculating hoods (the ones that don’t vent to the outside), and their whole purpose is to absorb cooking odours. Once the activated charcoal is full, that’s it – its job is done.

Trying to wash them won’t work and can actually cause damage, potentially sending charcoal dust into the fan motor. Not good.

• Know when to replace them: A good rule of thumb is to replace these filters every three to six months, though you might need to do it more often if you cook a lot. The biggest clue? If you notice cooking smells hanging around for longer than usual, it’s time for a new filter.
• Find the right replacement: Your extractor hood’s manual should have the specific model number you need. If you’ve lost it, just take the old filter with you to an appliance shop or search online using its dimensions and any part numbers you can find printed on it.
• Swap it out: It’s usually a very simple job. The old one unclips, and the new one slots straight back into place.

For a clearer picture, here's a quick reference table to help you manage your filters effectively.

Extractor Hood Filter Cleaning and Replacement Guide

Whether you're cleaning or replacing, keeping your filters in good nick is the key to your extractor’s performance. It ensures it can do its job properly – pulling smoke, steam, and smells out of your kitchen, leaving the air much cleaner and fresher.

Tackling the Hood Canopy and Surfaces

Once your filters are clean and drying, it’s time to face the main event: the hood canopy. This is where that sticky, yellowish film of grease loves to settle, making an otherwise clean kitchen look a bit grimy. Getting this part right isn’t just about making it look good; it's essential for a truly hygienic cooking space.

The trick is knowing what you're working with. A stainless steel hood needs a different approach than a glass or painted one if you want to avoid scratches, streaks, or permanent damage.

Cleaning Different Hood Finishes

To get the exterior gleaming, you need the right technique for the specific finish. No matter what, always reach for a soft, non-abrasive cloth – microfibre is your best friend here. It'll prevent you from leaving behind any of those annoying fine scratches.

• Stainless Steel: The golden rule for stainless steel is to always wipe with the grain, never against it. Working against the grain is a surefire way to create tiny scratches and a streaky, uneven finish. For most day-to-day grease, a simple solution of warm water and a few drops of washing-up liquid will do the job perfectly.
• Glass Canopies: Think of these just like your windows. A 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle works brilliantly. Just spritz it on, give it a minute to work its magic on the grime, and then wipe it all off with a clean microfibre cloth for a perfect, streak-free shine.
• Painted Surfaces: You need to be extra careful here. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive scourers that could easily chip or strip the paint. Warm, soapy water is your safest and most effective option. If you're ever in doubt about a cleaning product, test it on a small, hidden spot first.

For a professional-looking finish on stainless steel, here's a tip I've used for years: after it's clean and dry, apply a tiny drop of baby oil to a fresh cloth. Buff it gently in the direction of the grain. It leaves a beautiful, fingerprint-resistant shine that looks fantastic.

Dealing with Stubborn Grease Spots

Every now and then, you’ll come across stubborn, baked-on grease that soapy water simply can't handle. Before you reach for a harsh chemical cleaner, try a bit of homemade chemistry. You can create a powerful yet gentle cleaning paste that’s perfect for lifting those tough spots without damaging the surface.

Just mix bicarbonate of soda with a little water until it forms a thick paste, about the consistency of toothpaste. Dab this paste directly onto the greasy areas and just let it sit for around 15 minutes. The bicarb will get to work breaking down the grease. Afterwards, give it a gentle scrub with a soft brush or cloth and wipe it clean with a damp cloth.

This method works especially well on the underside of the hood and around the light cover, where grease seems to build up the most. Staying on top of it is the real secret. In fact, research highlights that simple weekly wipe-downs can dramatically cut down on the grease build-up that often contributes to kitchen fires. You can find more data on the importance of regular cleaning over at dataintelo.com.

Once the main surfaces are sparkling, focus on the details. Use your bicarb paste and an old toothbrush to get into the nooks and crannies around the control buttons. Give the light cover a final wipe-down and, if you can safely reach them, the fan blades too. Now you’re done

Putting It All Back Together and Keeping It Clean

With everything sparkling and dry, you’re on the home stretch. Getting your extractor hood reassembled is the final piece of the puzzle, but don't rush it. A hasty job can lead to annoying rattles or even create a safety hazard.

The golden rule here is to make sure every single component is bone dry before it goes back in. I can't stress this enough. Even a drop of moisture can kickstart rust on metal parts or, worse, create an electrical risk around the fan motor or light casing. Gently slot the clean filters back into place—they should click or slide in smoothly without any brute force.

The Secret to Less Scrubbing: A Simple Cleaning Schedule

You’ve just put in the elbow grease, so let's make sure you never have to face a monster job like that again. The trick is a simple, consistent maintenance routine that stops heavy grease build-up in its tracks. This approach turns a massive chore into a few minutes of easy upkeep.

A quick wipe-down every week is infinitely better than a full-on degreasing battle every six months. Consistency is your best friend here.

This isn’t about adding another complicated task to your busy life. It's about breaking down the job into tiny, manageable steps that keep your extractor hood working perfectly and looking great.

Your Go-To Maintenance Checklist

A good routine doesn't just save you time; it actually helps your appliance last longer. It’s the same logic used in professional kitchens, where efficiency is everything. If you're curious about how the pros do it, our guide on designing commercial kitchens offers some fantastic insights.

Here’s a straightforward schedule you can easily stick to:

• The Weekly Wipe-Down: Once a week, just give the outside of the hood a quick wipe with a damp microfibre cloth and a little soapy water. This takes about 60 seconds and prevents that sticky, dusty film from ever taking hold.
• The Monthly Filter Check: Pop a reminder in your calendar to give your metal filters a clean once a month. If you have charcoal filters, take a look and plan on replacing them every 3-6 months, depending on how much you cook.
• The Bi-Annual Deep Clean: Twice a year, set aside a bit of time to properly clean the interior and the fan blades. This small commitment pays off big time in performance and longevity.

Sticking to this simple plan ensures your hood maintains proper airflow and keeps your kitchen smelling fresh. It's no surprise that regular deep cleans are proven to cut down on lingering cooking smells. This frequency is standard practice in commercial settings for a reason. You can even explore the market for hood filters and cleaning kits to see how seriously the professionals take it.

Your Extractor Hood Cleaning Questions, Answered

Even with the best instructions, a few questions always seem to pop up when you're halfway through a job. Let's run through some of the most common ones I hear about extractor hood cleaning, so you can tackle it like a pro.

How Often Should I Really Clean My Extractor Hood Filter?

For an average kitchen, cleaning your metal grease filters once a month is a great rule of thumb. It’s frequent enough to stop grease from becoming a baked-on nightmare and keeps your extractor working as it should.

But honestly, your cooking habits are the real decider. If you’re a fan of a good fry-up, cook with a lot of oil, or your kitchen is always bustling, you’ll want to ramp that up to every two to three weeks. Your hood will tell you when it’s time – if cooking smells hang around for ages or the suction feels a bit weak, that’s your cue.

If your hood uses disposable charcoal filters for odour control, those can't be washed. They need replacing every 3 to 6 months to keep things fresh.

Can I Just Stick My Metal Filters in the Dishwasher?

In many cases, yes! A lot of modern metal filters are dishwasher-safe, and it’s a brilliant shortcut. But before you do, always have a quick look at your extractor hood’s manual. Some materials or finishes don't play well with dishwashers.

Just a heads-up: powerful dishwasher detergents can sometimes cause a bit of discolouration on the metal over time. It’s usually just a cosmetic thing and won’t stop the filter from doing its job.

Here's a pro tip for filters that are long overdue for a clean. Don't rely on the dishwasher alone. Give them a good pre-soak in a hot, degreasing solution first to loosen the worst of the grime. Then, pop them in for a hot cycle to finish them off.

What’s the Best Homemade Degreaser for an Extractor Hood?

You can get fantastic results without resorting to harsh chemicals. A simple combination of bicarbonate of soda and white vinegar is a surprisingly powerful, eco-friendly duo. How you use them depends on what you're cleaning.

• For soaking filters: Fill a basin or sink with boiling water and stir in a good amount of bicarb (about 60-80 grams). The resulting alkaline solution is amazing at breaking down stubborn, caked-on grease.
• For stubborn surface spots: Mix bicarb with a little water to form a thick paste. Slather it onto any grimy patches, leave it for about 15 minutes, and then gently scrub it off. It’s surprisingly effective and won’t scratch the surface.
• For a quick wipe-down spray: Mix a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and hot water in a spray bottle. It’s perfect for cutting through daily grease on the hood’s exterior.

I’ve Cleaned My Hood, but It’s Still Making a Racket. What Now?

If you’ve given the filters and canopy a thorough clean and the noise is still there, the first thing to check is that you’ve put everything back together properly. A filter that’s not clicked in securely is a very common cause of rattling or vibrating.

If everything is snug and you’re still hearing an odd noise – especially a grinding or whirring sound – that could point to an issue with the fan motor. If that’s the case, your best bet is to switch it off and call in a qualified appliance repair technician. It’s not worth the risk.

At Chef Royale, we know that a clean, well-run kitchen is the cornerstone of great food. We offer a huge selection of high-quality, eco-friendly disposables and packaging to support your business. From compostable food containers to essential hygiene supplies, you can find everything you need by visiting our online store at https://thechefroyale.com.