How to Clean Hood Fan Filters Before They’re a Fire Hazard

When was the last time you checked your range hood filter?

If it’s caked in grease, it’s not just filthy — it’s a fire hazard. Blocked filters can’t do their job. And all that built-up grease can ignite in seconds.

Plus, if you're renting, a filthy filter could cost you part of your bond. 

Let’s fix that before it becomes a real problem.

A clean filter means a clean kitchen.

They pull out grease, smoke, and whatever’s floating in the air — before it sticks around.

Leave it too long, and you’ll be scraping grease like burnt lasagne.

Time to stop putting it off.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Hot water
• Your go-to dish soap
  
• White vinegar — eats through the grease
  
• Baking soda — packs a punch for your clean
  
• Microfibre cloth — if your filter needs a softer touch
  
• Non-metal scrubbing brush 
• A pair of gloves, for safety
  
• Large sink or bucket, big enough to soak the filter
  
• Natural all-purpose cleaner, for extra backup (optional)

The good news?

Vinegar and baking soda are all you need to get through this mess without wearing out your filter.

 

Alright, Let’s Clean This Thing

Turn It Off First

Start by Removing the Filter

Make sure your rangehood is off and cool to the touch. Most filters just slide or pop out — no tools needed. 

Hint: Look for a latch along the edge or underneath.

Let it Fizz

Fill a sink with water as hot as you can handle. Add a big squirt of dish soap to create the bubbles as pictured.

Now toss in a half cup of vinegar and two tablespoons of baking soda, and it’ll fizz up fast — that’s your degreaser at work.

Drop It In

Submerge the filter and let it soak for 20 minutes — 30 if it's cooked in grease. 

The heat and fizz will do most of the heavy lifting. All you’ve got to do now is wait.

Bring the Brush

Throw on some gloves and scrub off what’s left.

Don’t press too hard — the mesh can tear easily.

(I cut myself doing this thinking I didn’t need gloves last week. Don’t be me.)

 

Wash It Down

Hold it under warm running water.

 Get every bit of grime off.

If it still feels slimy, keep going.

Dry It Off

Don’t reinstall it while it’s wet — water can mess with the motor.

Lay it flat on a microfibre cloth or clean tea towel.

Let it air-dry completely before putting it back in.

Reinstall the Filter

Once it’s bone dry, clip it back in.

Wipe down the range hood while you’re there.

Optional: hit the hood and stovetop with a bit of natural cleaner to wrap up.

What People Get Wrong

Why Even Bother At All?

Losing your bond is one thing — but skipping regular cleans comes back to bite in more ways than one.

• It’s not just gross — it’s risky: A 27-year study in Taiwan linked cooking oil fumes to higher cancer rates. The risk was especially high for women.

• Grease fires happen fast: Built-up oil can ignite unexpectedly.

• Weak suction means a smoky kitchen: Airborne grease isn’t great for little lungs either.

• Grease starts dripping: From the hood... onto your stove, your food — or straight onto the flame.

• Sticky walls and yellowed cupboards: That grease has to go somewhere.

 

Quickfire FAQ

How often should I clean the filter?

Every 1–3 months. Monthly if you cook often or deep-fry.

Can it go in the dishwasher?

Most metal filters can — check for a dishwasher-safe symbol or see the filter's manual. For thick grease though, the soak and scrub are still your bread and butter.

What if I want a natural alternative for my soak?

Try this natural all-purpose cleaner that's made to cut through grease.

How do I know when my filter needs replacing?

If it’s still discoloured, bent, or looks cooked after a proper clean — that’ll be when.

Still not pulling air properly? You’ll know if steam lingers, smells stick around, or a tissue held to the vent barely moves. That’s a go-next.

While You’re Here:

[How to Clean Shower Screens Fast — 5 Simple Steps]

[How to Clean a Mattress: The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need]

[Eco Friendly Cleaning Products: Are They Worth It?]