How to Clean a Range Hood Filter and Vents

When was the last time you took a peek at the underside of your range hood? Has it been a while? Most of us don’t think about cleaning the range hood until it starts looking (and smelling) a bit grungy.

That sticky buildup isn’t just gross — it’s a fire hazard and makes your range hood about as useful as a screen door on a submarine. However, cleaning your range hood filter and vents is a simple DIY job that can make your kitchen a safer, fresher, and more pleasant place to work.

Grab some basic supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get your range hood squeaky clean again.

Why You Should Care About Your Range Hood

Your range hood might not be the flashiest appliance in your kitchen, but it’s definitely one of the hardest-working. Every time you sauté, simmer, or deep-fry something, it’s pulling in smoke, steam, and airborne grease, so all that gunk doesn’t end up on your cabinets, ceiling, and walls.

Over time, the filter can get clogged with grease and grime. Here’s what happens when that’s the case:

• Reduced airflow: A dirty filter can’t suck up smoke effectively, so your kitchen starts smelling like last week’s bacon.
• Fire hazard: Grease is flammable, and a greasy filter is basically kindling. All it takes is one little stovetop flare-up.
• Appliance damage: When the filter is clogged, the fan motor has to work harder, which can cause it to wear out more quickly.
• Eau de Old Grease: That lingering “mystery smell” in your kitchen might be trapped grease going rancid.

A quick clean keeps your home safer, your appliances happier, and your kitchen smelling like food, not fumes.

How to Clean a Range Hood Filter

Most range hoods have either a metal filter (which you can clean and reuse) or a charcoal filter (which usually needs replacing). Let’s start with the metal kind.

Cleaning Metal Grease Filters

These are usually made from aluminum or stainless steel. Aim to clean them once a month, or more often if you’re a frequent fryer.

You’ll need:

• A large pot or sink
• Boiling water
• ½ cup baking soda
• Degreasing dish soap
• A non-abrasive scrub brush
• A clean towel

Here’s how:

1. Remove the filter. Most just slide out — check your manual if it’s being stubborn.
2. Mix your cleaning concoction. Fill the sink or pot with boiling water, add baking soda (carefully, it’ll fizz!), and a few squirts of grease-cutting dish soap.
3. Soak the filter. Drop it in and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. It’s OK to get excited by that gross-looking water; it means it’s getting clean!
4. Scrub gently. Use a brush to remove any leftover grime. For tough spots, make a paste of baking soda and water.
5. Rinse and dry. Rinse with hot water, pat dry with a towel, and let it air dry completely.
6. Reinstall. Once the filter is completely dry, slide it back in and admire your handiwork.

Dealing with Charcoal Filters

If your range hood doesn’t vent outdoors, it may use charcoal filters to neutralize odors. Most charcoal filters are disposable, not washable. Replace them every 3–6 months, or sooner if your kitchen begins to smell like fried onions and garlic 24/7.

Some newer models feature “rechargeable” charcoal filters that can be rinsed and reactivated by baking them; however, only do this if your manual explicitly instructs you to do so. Otherwise, treat them like coffee filters — single-use and done.

How to Clean the Hood and Vents

Now that your filters are fresh and clean, let’s deal with the rest of the hood.

You’ll need:

• Degreasing cleaner or a cleaning solution made by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water
• A sponge or microfiber cloth
• A small brush (like an old toothbrush)
• A clean, dry cloth

Here are the steps:

1. Clean the inside. Spray cleaner on your cloth (not directly into the hood) and wipe down the interior surfaces. Use your small brush to get into tight corners.
2. Wipe the exterior. Spray and wipe in the direction of the grain for stainless steel to help prevent streaks.
3. Tackle the vents. If you have a ducted hood, wipe around the vent opening where the filter sits.
4. Polish it up. Finish with a clean cloth for a streak-free shine, or with stainless steel cleaner.

Cleaning Microwaves with Vent Hood Combos

If your microwave lives above your stove, it’s doing double duty — reheating leftovers and pulling steam and cooking fumes out of the air. But just like a range hood, that built-in exhaust fan and vent can collect a surprising amount of greasy residue over time. To clean it, remove the metal or charcoal filter from the underside (most just pop or slide out) and wash it as outlined above, or replace it if it’s disposable.

Wipe down the vent area (on top) and the fan housing with a degreasing cleaner or a cleaning solution made by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Be sure to unplug the microwave first. A quick monthly cleaning will keep your fan running efficiently and prevent your microwave from smelling like last night’s stir-fry.

Keep It Clean with a Simple Routine

Cleaning your range hood doesn’t have to be a once-a-year “how did it get this bad?” event. Make it part of your monthly kitchen cleaning routine, and it will take just a few minutes. It’s a simple routine that will keep your kitchen safer, your air cleaner, and your kitchen cabinets and walls grease-free.

FAQs: Cleaning a Range Hood

Q: How often should I clean my filter?

Once a month for metal filters or every two weeks if you cook often. Replace charcoal filters every 3 to 6 months.

Q: Can I place the metal filter in the dishwasher?

Sometimes, but check your manual first; dishwasher detergent can discolor aluminum. The boiling-water method is gentler and usually works better.

Q: What is the best cleaner to use for the metal filters?

Hot water, baking soda, and dish soap work well for degreasing a metal filter.

Q: How do I avoid streaks on stainless steel?

Wipe with the grain and dry completely with a microfiber cloth. You can also use a cleaner specifically formulated for stainless steel.

Q: Why does my fan still seem weak after I’ve cleaned it?

There could be a motor issue or blockage in the hood. If so, it’s time to call a pro.

Q: What’s that sticky residue on my kitchen cabinets, and how do I get rid of it?

That sticky film is airborne grease that has settled on your surfaces. A degreasing cleaner or the same vinegar-water solution used for your hood exterior should work well to remove it.

Q: Is it safe to use oven cleaner on my range hood filter?

It’s generally not recommended. Oven cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage or corrode the metal of your filter, especially if it is made of aluminum. Stick to the gentler method with baking soda and dish soap.

Q: Can I clean and reuse a charcoal filter?

In most cases, no. Most charcoal filters are disposable and should be replaced because the activated charcoal’s ability to absorb odors is finite. A few specific models are designed to be “rechargeable,” but you must follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely, which usually involves baking them in an oven.