Rangehood cleaning is the time consuming and hardwork job as compared to any other cleaning task. Your rangehood plays the hero’s role in your kitchen. It quietly pulls away steam, grease, and odours while you cook, keeping your air fresh and your tiles or splashback spotless. However, over time, those hardworking filters accumulate a sticky layer of grime that can make your kitchen smell stale and even impact your appliance’s performance.
Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or someone who prefers quick weeknight meals, regularly cleaning your range hood filters is crucial for maintaining a healthy, safe, and efficient kitchen. The good news? It’s easier than you might think!
Below, we’ve broken it down into nine simple steps that anyone can follow — using basic household products you probably already have.
Step 1: Turn Off the Rangehood
Before you start cleaning, safety comes first. Ensure your range hood is switched off and unplugged. This helps you avoid any risk of electrical shock or short circuits while handling water and metal parts.
Also, remove any stove covers or nearby utensils to create a clear workspace. A clutter-free area makes the job faster and safer.
Step 2: Remove the Filters
Most rangehood filters are easy to remove — they either slide, clip, or pop out from the underside of the unit. If you’re unsure how yours works, check the manufacturer’s guide.
There are a few common types:
- Mesh filters (aluminium or stainless steel) – These are reusable and washable.
- Baffle filters – Common in commercial-style hoods; also washable.
- Charcoal filters – These trap odours but can’t be washed. Replace them every 3 to 6 months.
Make sure to note the position of your filters so reinstalling them later is easy.
Step 3: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
The secret to clean filters lies in the soaking solution. In your sink or a large bucket, mix:
- Hot (not boiling) water
- A few squirts of dishwashing liquid (preferably one designed for grease-cutting)
- ¼ cup of baking soda
This natural combo breaks down tough grease without harsh chemicals. For extremely stubborn buildup, you can also add a small splash of white vinegar or a teaspoon of dishwashing detergent powder for extra strength.
Step 4: Soak the Filters
Place your filters entirely into the solution and let them soak for 20–30 minutes. You’ll notice the water start to turn cloudy as the grease begins to loosen.
If your filters haven’t been cleaned in months, let them sit a little longer — up to an hour won’t hurt. Just make sure the water stays warm, as heat helps dissolve the oily residue more effectively.
Step 5: Scrub Away the Grease
Once the grease has softened, use a soft-bristled brush, an old toothbrush, or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the filters. Work carefully to clean between the mesh layers without bending or damaging the metal.
Avoid harsh tools like wire brushes or steel wool – they can scratch the surface, making future cleanings more difficult.
If you notice any dark, sticky spots that won’t budge, reapply a bit of baking soda and dish soap directly and scrub again.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing, rinse the filters under hot running water until all soap and grime are gone. Hold the filters up to the light — if you still see greasy patches, it means they need another quick scrub or soak.
Rinse both sides thoroughly to ensure every bit of detergent is removed. Leaving soap behind can cause dust to cling more quickly once you reinstall the filters.
Step 7: Dry Completely
Shake off any excess water and set the filters on a clean towel or drying rack. Let them air dry completely – ideally for a few hours.
If you’re in a hurry, you can place them near a fan or use a blow dryer on a cool setting. Avoid reinstalling damp filters, as trapped moisture can lead to mould or corrosion inside your rangehood.
Step 8: Wipe the Rangehood Exterior
While your filters are drying, take a moment to give the rest of the rangehood some love.
Use a soft cloth and a mild degreaser or a 50/50 vinegar-water mix to clean the inside of the hood, light covers, and the stainless-steel surface. Pay attention to the control buttons – grease often accumulates around these areas.
Once wiped down, polish with a dry microfibre cloth for a streak-free, shiny finish.
Step 9: Reinstall and Admire the Shine
Once your filters are bone dry, slide or clip them back into place. Plug in the rangehood and test it — you’ll notice improved suction power and a fresher smell immediately.
Bonus Tip: Regular Maintenance is Key
- Clean monthly: If you cook daily, make it a habit to wash filters every 4–6 weeks.
- Use lids: Cover pots and pans when frying to reduce airborne grease.
- Wipe after cooking: A quick wipe-down of the hood exterior after heavy cooking sessions prevents grease buildup.
- Change charcoal filters: If your rangehood has one, replace it as recommended by the manufacturer.
Regular maintenance not only keeps your kitchen smelling fresh but also improves air quality and prevents sticky residue from spreading across cabinets and walls.
Why Rangehood Filter Cleaning Matters
A neglected rangehood doesn’t just look bad — it can also affect your health and safety. Clogged filters reduce ventilation, allowing smoke, grease, and odours to linger. Over time, this buildup can:
- Increase fire risk from trapped oil
- Strain your rangehood motor
- Lower indoor air quality
- Leave a greasy film on your kitchen surfaces
In other words, a simple cleaning routine saves you from bigger repair costs and keeps your cooking environment safer.
Professional Help for Deep Cleaning
Sometimes, filters are too far gone—or you don’t have the time. That’s where professionals like End of Lease Cleaning Melbourne come in.
Our expert cleaners are trained to handle thorough kitchen deep cleans, including range hoods, ovens, stovetops, and exhaust fans. Whether you’re moving out or want your kitchen to shine again, we guarantee sparkling results using safe and effective cleaning methods.
We’ve helped thousands of Melbourne renters and homeowners get their kitchens looking brand new — and we back every service with a 7-day satisfaction guarantee.
✨ Final Thoughts
Cleaning your rangehood filters might not be the most glamorous chore, but it’s one of the most rewarding. Not only does it make your kitchen look and smell better, but it also improves the performance of your ventilation system — saving you money on energy and repairs.
With just a bit of hot water, baking soda, and elbow grease, you can transform grimy filters into sparkling ones — and keep your cooking space fresh all year round.
So, next time you notice your rangehood looking dull or your fan sounding louder than usual, give these 9 simple steps a try — or let the experts at End of Lease Cleaning Melbourne handle it for you. You’ll be amazed at the difference a clean rangehood can make!
