How to Deep Clean Your Range Hood Filter

GREASE is the silent enemy of your kitchen ventilation system. Over time, the metallic mesh filters above your stovetop become saturated with airborne oils, effectively choking your range hood's ability to pull smoke and moisture out of the air. When the mesh is clogged, that greasy film eventually settles onto your cabinetry, walls, and ceiling, creating a sticky mess that is significantly harder to clean than the filter itself. Restoring airflow is a straightforward process that requires little more than heat and chemistry. While many dishwashers claim to clean these filters, they rarely have the sustained heat or water flow necessary to cut through months of caked-on buildup. A manual soak is the gold standard for returning the metal mesh to a like-new state, ensuring your kitchen stays fresh and your ventilation motor doesn't burn out trying to pull air through a solid wall of solidified fat.

Release the trapped filter. Locate the metal release latch on the underside of the range hood. Press the tab or slide the spring-loaded mechanism to drop the filter out of the frame.
Mix the chemical solution. Fill a large stockpot or your sink with water and bring it to a near-boil. Add a generous half-cup of baking soda and a heavy squirt of concentrated degreasing dish soap to the water.
Let heat break the bond. Place the filter into the hot solution, ensuring it is completely covered by the liquid. Let it sit undisturbed for at least 15 to 20 minutes to allow the heat to liquefy the grease.
Attack the clogged corners. Use a non-scratch nylon scrub brush to gently work away any remaining residue. Focus on the corners where grease tends to pool and solidify.
Blast away the residue. Rinse the filter under very hot running water to remove all soap and loosened oil. Inspect the mesh for any lingering blocked holes.
Seal in the restoration. Shake off excess moisture and pat the filter dry with a lint-free towel. Allow it to air dry completely before snapping it back into the hood.