How to Clean Your Cooker Hood

Designed to remove cooking odours, grease and a certain amount of steam via an extractor fan, cooker hoods are an invaluable part of any kitchen. Not only does this improve the air quality in your kitchen, but it also makes cleaning easier, as grease collects inside the filter. However, you will need to clean the filter regularly to ensure it works efficiently.

If you’re wondering how to clean a cooker hood filter, explore our handy step-by-step guide and cleaning tips below.

When to clean your cooker hood

Regular maintenance is the best way to keep your cooker hood running smoothly. We recommend cleaning metal filters every 1-3 months and carbon filters every 4-6 months. However, if you notice any of the following problems, it’s time to clean your cooker hood:

  • Reduced performance. If steam, smoke or cooking odours are backing up or lingering in the kitchen, it could be a sign that your cooker hood is clogged. The most common reason for poor performance is a build-up of grease in the filter.
  • Visible grease build-up. Are you noticing grease build-up on the exterior of the hood? This is a sign that you need to deep clean your cooker hood, including the filter, extractor fan and exterior surfaces. Excess grease can be a fire hazard, so this must be addressed.
  • Visible dust or debris. This is another sign that your cooker hood isn’t functioning properly, as it should catch any airborne particles.
  • Water condensing or dripping. This could mean there’s a blockage somewhere caused by excess grease or debris.
  • Excessive noise. Although cooker hoods make some noise during the extraction process, any unusual or loud sounds could be a sign of a blockage.

  Types of cooker hood filters  

There are three types of cooker hood filters: carbon, paper and metal. Learn about the differences here to determine which filter your cooker hood has.

  • Carbon filters

    Carbon filters are used for re-circulating extraction systems, which aren’t vented externally. Air passes through the filter, which traps grease, steam, smoke and cooking odours, and then clean air is released back into the kitchen. Some carbon filters can be cleaned by heating them in the oven, but AEG carbon filters need replacing each time.

  • Paper filters

    Paper filters are usually installed behind metal filters, absorbing grease and moisture. They’re easy to change – throw away the old filter and replace it with a new one.

  • Metal filters

    Metal filters are commonly found in cooker hoods with vented extraction systems. They are great at catching grease and are easy to clean. Follow the steps below to find out how to clean a metal mesh cooker hood filter.  

Step-by-step guide to cleaning a cooker hood

Our step-by-step guide covers how to remove extractor fan covers and replace them to ensure your appliance’s performance isn’t compromised. You’ll also find tips on how to clean extractor fan filters and cooker hoods to keep them sparkling.

What you’ll need:

To ensure best results, you’ll need the following equipment when

  • Dish soap
  • Bicarbonate of soda
  • Microfibre cloth
  • Gloves
  • Sponge
  • Scrubbing brush

 

  • Prepare your workspace

    Before you start, turn off your cooker hood at the mains. Put on gloves to protect your skin from any irritants while cleaning. If possible, open a window to ventilate the space when using cleaning products.

  • Remove filters

    Most filters are secured inside the hood, so you’ll need to remove this first. Depending on the filter type, it may be secured with clips or screws. If you have paper filters or carbon filters, throw them away, as they can’t be cleaned.

  • Soak and scrub filters

    Wondering how to clean grease from a cooker hood filter? The best way is to soak the metal filter in warm, soapy water to loosen the grease. If the grease is stubborn, apply a paste made with bicarbonate of soda and water and let this sit for a while. Use a scrubbing brush to remove any tough dirt, then rinse with clean water and leave to dry.

    Alternatively, you can put metal filters in the dishwasher.

  • Clean hood surface

    Although filters are designed to catch grease, dust and other debris, they will naturally accumulate on your cooker hood over time. Whether you have a stainless steel or glass cooker hood, follow these tips to leave them shining.

    1. Wipe down the hood with dish soap and warm water using a soft sponge.
    2. If the surface is still streaky with stubborn grease after step 1, it may need a more intense treatment. Make a paste from bicarbonate of soda and water and apply this to the cooker hood to break down any grease residue.
    3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, leave to dry, then wipe with a microfibre cloth to buff the surface.
  • Replace the filters

    If your cooker hood has paper or carbon filters, replace them with new ones. Metal filters can be re-fitted once dry. Secure the cooker hood back in place and switch the mains power back on to test the extractor fan.

Is it time to upgrade your cooker hood? Explore the range at AEG to find wall-mounted, worktop and integrated hoods. We also offer extractor hobs for a discreet, modern look. For replacement filters, visit our spare parts and accessories shop.