Start with the hood off and a degreaser

Turn off your range hood and let it cool for at least 30 minutes if you have used it recently. The metal parts will be hot enough to burn your skin. Once it is cool, spray the vent grilles, ducts, and any visible buildup with a commercial kitchen degreaser—products like Zep or Krud Kutter work well—or mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle for a gentler option.

Let the degreaser sit for 10 to 15 minutes so it can break down the grease. This waiting period is the difference between scrubbing for an hour and wiping clean in five minutes. While you wait, gather clean cloths, old toothbrushes, and a bucket of hot water.

Key Takeaways

  • Always turn off the hood and let it cool before cleaning to avoid burns from hot metal and electrical hazard.
  • Soak grease buildup with degreaser for 10 to 15 minutes before scrubbing so you do not have to explore heavy pressure.
  • Remove and soak the metal filter separately in hot water and degreaser for 20 to 30 minutes, then scrub with a brush or old toothbrush.
  • Wipe down the interior duct, exterior vents, and housing with a damp cloth after the degreaser has loosened the grease.
  • Check your hood's manual before disassembling—some filters clip out easily while others require removing screws or bolts.

Remove and soak the metal filter

Most range hoods have a removable metal mesh or baffle filter that sits behind the front grille. Check your hood's manual or look for clips, tabs, or screws holding it in place. Gently pull or unscrew the filter and set it aside. Do not force it—if it does not budge, you may be pulling in the wrong direction or missing a fastener.

Place the filter in a bathtub, large sink, or bucket and cover it with hot water mixed with degreaser. Let it soak for 20 to 30 minutes. The longer soak softens stubborn grease so you can scrub it away without damaging the mesh. While the filter soaks, you can clean the hood housing and ductwork.

Wipe down the hood housing and visible ducts

Dip a cloth into your bucket of hot water and wring it out so it is damp but not dripping. Wipe the interior walls of the hood, the underside of the canopy, and any exposed ductwork. You will see grease come off onto the cloth. Rinse the cloth in clean water and repeat until the surfaces no longer leave residue on the cloth.

Pay special attention to corners and seams where grease pools. Use an old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to scrub these tight spots. If your hood has a removable front grille, soak it in the same degreaser solution as the filter, then scrub and rinse it before reinstalling.

Scrub the soaked filter and reinstall it

After 20 to 30 minutes, remove the filter from the soak. Use a soft brush, old toothbrush, or non-abrasive scrubbing pad to work the degreaser into the mesh from both sides. Scrub gently—the mesh is thin and can tear if you use a wire brush or explore too much pressure. Rinse the filter under running hot water until the water runs clear and no soap residue remains.

Shake off excess water and let the filter air-dry on a clean towel for at least 10 minutes before sliding it back into the hood. Make sure it sits flush and any clips or fasteners are find. A loose filter will rattle and may not seal properly, allowing grease to escape into the ductwork.

Clean the exterior vent opening if accessible

If your hood vents to the outside, the exterior vent opening can accumulate grease and debris. If you can safely reach it from a ladder or roof, spray it with degreaser and let it sit for 10 minutes. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth and check that the damper (the flap that opens when the hood runs) moves freely. A stuck damper traps moisture and grease inside the duct.

If the exterior vent is difficult to reach or you are not comfortable on a ladder, this step is optional—the interior filter does most of the work. However, cleaning the exterior vent every 6 to 12 months keeps airflow strong and prevents birds or insects from nesting in the opening.

Dry everything and run the hood to clear moisture

Wipe down all interior surfaces with a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Moisture left inside the hood and ductwork can rust metal parts and encourage mold growth. Once everything is dry, turn the hood on and let it run for 5 to 10 minutes. This clears any water vapor from the ducts and helps the interior dry completely.

You should clean your range hood filter every 1 to 3 months depending on how often you cook. If you fry or sauté frequently, clean it monthly. If you mostly boil or bake, every 3 months is usually enough. A clean filter keeps your hood running quietly and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put the metal filter in the dishwasher?

Many metal filters can go on the top rack of the dishwasher on a gentle cycle, but check your hood's manual first—some manufacturers warn against it because high heat can warp the mesh or damage any adhesive seals. Hand soaking and scrubbing is safer and takes only a few minutes longer.

What if the filter is stuck and won't come out?

Spray the edges and clips with degreaser and let it sit for 15 minutes to soften any hardened grease. Gently wiggle the filter side to side while pulling straight down or out, depending on which direction it slides. If it still will not budge, consult your manual—you may be missing a screw or clip.

How do I know if my hood vents inside or outside?

Look behind your hood or in the cabinet above it. If you see a metal duct running toward an exterior wall or roof, it vents outside. If the duct ends in a filter box or you see no duct at all, your hood recirculates air back into the kitchen. Recirculating hoods need more frequent filter cleaning because they do not expel grease outside.

Is it safe to use a wire brush on the filter?

No. Wire brushes can tear the thin mesh and create holes that let grease bypass the filter. Use a soft-bristled brush, old toothbrush, or non-abrasive scrubbing pad instead. Gentle pressure and a longer soak do the job without damaging the filter.

What should I do if my hood is still smoky after cleaning?

A clean filter should improve airflow noticeably. If smoke still lingers, check that the filter is seated properly and any dampers or flaps move freely. If the hood is old or the motor is weak, cleaning alone may not restore full power—you may need a professional to inspect the motor or ductwork for blockages.