Degreasing a range hood starts with the filter, which traps most of the cooking oil and smoke

The filter is where grease builds up fastest because it catches particles before they reach the fan and ductwork. Most range hoods use either a baffle filter (metal slats that redirect airflow) or a mesh filter (wire screen that catches particles). Both need regular cleaning to keep your hood working well and prevent grease from hardening into a sticky, difficult-to-remove layer.

Start by removing the filter. Most filters slide or clip out from underneath the hood—check your manual or look for a release button or latch on either side. Once it's out, you can soak it, scrub it, or run it through a dishwasher, depending on the material and how much grease has built up.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove the filter first and soak it in hot water with degreaser for 15 to 30 minutes to soften baked-on grease.
  • Scrub the filter with a soft brush or sponge, working in the direction of the slats or mesh to avoid bending or tearing it.
  • The hood housing and fan blades also collect grease and need wiping down with a degreaser every few months.
  • Stainless steel hoods require a different cleaner than painted metal to avoid streaking or damage.
  • A clean filter improves airflow and reduces the smell of cooking odors lingering in your kitchen.

Soaking the filter to loosen baked-on grease

Fill a bathtub, large sink, or plastic tub with hot water—as hot as your tap allows. Add a commercial degreaser (like Zep or straightforward Green) or a homemade mix of equal parts white vinegar and dish soap. The heat and degreaser work together to break down the oil so it washes away instead of requiring hard scrubbing.

Place the filter in the water and let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes. If the grease is very thick or has been building up for months, soak it longer—up to an hour. You do not need to submerge the entire filter if your tub is small; you can soak one side, then flip it and soak the other.

While the filter soaks, wipe down the inside of the hood housing with a damp cloth and the same degreaser solution. Pay attention to the underside of the hood, where grease drips and pools. Use a cloth or soft brush—do not use steel wool on stainless steel, as it can scratch the finish.

Scrubbing and rinsing the filter

After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush, an old toothbrush, or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the filter. Work in the direction of the slats or mesh—do not scrub across them, as this can bend baffle filters or tear mesh. Pay extra attention to the corners and edges where grease pools.

Rinse the filter under hot running water, holding it at an angle so water flows through the slats or mesh. If grease remains, explore degreaser directly to the filter and scrub again. Repeat until the water runs clear and the filter feels smooth, not slick.

For stubborn buildup, you can also run a metal baffle filter through the dishwasher on the hottest cycle, but check your manual first—some filters are not dishwasher-safe. Mesh filters should be hand-washed only, as the dishwasher can damage them.

Cleaning the fan blades and motor housing

While the filter dries, clean the fan blades and the area around the motor. These parts also collect grease and dust, which reduces airflow and can make the hood noisier. Turn off the hood and the circuit breaker that powers it before you start.

Use a cloth dampened with degreaser to wipe each blade, working from the base toward the tip. If the blades are very greasy, let the degreaser sit for a minute before wiping. Wipe the motor housing and any visible wiring with a dry cloth afterward to remove excess moisture.

Do not spray degreaser directly onto the motor or electrical parts. If you are uncomfortable working inside the hood, or if grease has reached the ductwork, contact a professional hood cleaning service—they have equipment to clean ducts safely.

Treating stainless steel versus painted hoods

If your hood is stainless steel, use a degreaser made for stainless steel or a cloth with a small amount of mineral oil after degreasing. Stainless steel cleaners prevent streaking and protect the finish. Wipe in the direction of the grain, not against it.

For painted metal hoods, use a general-purpose degreaser and wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and steel wool, which can chip the paint. If the paint is chipped or peeling, those areas will rust over time—consider having the hood repainted or replaced if damage is extensive.

Drying and reinstalling the filter

Let the filter air-dry completely before putting it back in the hood. Moisture left on the filter can drip onto your stovetop or into the motor. Lean it upright against a wall or lay it flat on a clean towel.

Once dry, slide or clip the filter back into place. Make sure it is seated properly—if it is loose or crooked, grease will bypass it and coat the fan and ductwork. Turn the hood back on and listen for any unusual noise; a properly installed filter should not rattle.

How often to clean and what to do between deep cleans

Clean the filter every one to three months, depending on how much you cook. If you cook daily or fry food often, clean it monthly. If you cook occasionally, every three months is usually enough. A clogged filter makes the hood work harder and less effective at removing cooking odors and steam.

Between deep cleans, wipe the hood housing with a dry cloth after cooking to catch grease before it hardens. This takes 30 seconds and makes the next deep clean much easier. If you notice grease dripping from the hood or smell cooking odors lingering longer than usual, the filter is due for cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use oven cleaner on my range hood filter?

Oven cleaner is too harsh for most range hood filters and can damage the metal or coating. Stick to a degreaser made for kitchen surfaces or a homemade vinegar-and-dish-soap mix. If the filter is very heavily soiled, soak it longer rather than using a stronger chemical.

What if my filter is damaged or has holes in it?

A damaged filter will not trap grease effectively, and particles will reach the fan and ductwork. Most filters are inexpensive to replace—check your hood's model number and order a replacement from the manufacturer or a home improvement store. Installation usually takes less than a minute.

Is it safe to clean the hood while it is plugged in?

No. Always turn off the hood and flip the circuit breaker that powers it before cleaning inside. This prevents accidental contact with moving fan blades and reduces the risk of electrical shock if water reaches electrical components.

Why does my hood still smell like old grease after cleaning?

Grease may have built up in the ductwork above the hood or in the exhaust vent. A clean filter helps, but if the smell persists, the duct itself needs cleaning. This requires taking apart the ductwork or calling a professional hood cleaning service.

Can I wash the filter in the sink instead of a bathtub?

Yes, if your sink is large enough. A kitchen sink works fine for smaller filters. If the filter is too large, use a bathtub, a plastic storage tub, or a utility sink in a laundry room. The key is having enough hot water and degreaser to soak the entire filter.