Your range hood filter is covered in grease. Here’s how to make it look spotless again with almost no effort.

 

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Your Range Hood Filter Is Covered in Grease—Here’s How to Make It Spotless Again With Almost No Effort

If you cook often, there’s one kitchen task that’s easy to ignore—until you can’t anymore: the range hood filter. Over time, this metal mesh collects a stubborn layer of grease, smoke residue, and dust. The good news? Getting it clean doesn’t have to mean scrubbing endlessly or buying expensive degreasers. With a simple method using items you likely already have in your kitchen, you can make your range hood filter look almost brand new in minutes.

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Why Cleaning Your Range Hood Filter Matters

Your range hood filter does more than trap cooking fumes—it helps keep your kitchen safe, clean, and smelling fresh. A neglected filter:

• Reduces airflow efficiency

• Allows odors to linger

• Can drip grease back onto your stovetop

• Even becomes a fire hazard over time

A quick cleaning not only restores performance but also helps prolong the life of your appliance.

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What You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy cleaning products—just a few basics:

• A large pot or sink

• Boiling water

• Baking soda

• Dish soap (preferably a grease-cutting formula)

• A brush or sponge (optional)

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The Easiest Way to Clean a Greasy Range Hood Filter

1. Remove the Filter

Most filters simply slide or pop out. They’re usually made of metal mesh or baffle panels.

2. Bring Water to a Boil

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. If your filter doesn’t fit in a pot, plug your sink and use boiling water from the kettle instead.

3. Add Baking Soda

Sprinkle in ½ cup of baking soda, letting it fizz. This breaks down grease naturally without harsh chemicals.

4. Add Grease-Cutting Dish Soap

A tablespoon of dish soap boosts the degreasing power and helps lift oily buildup.

5. Submerge the Filter

Slip the filter into the hot solution. Let it soak 10–15 minutes. You should see grease beginning to melt away almost immediately.

6. Light Scrub (If Needed)

Most of the grime slides right off, but for heavy buildup, give it a quick once-over with a brush or sponge.

7. Rinse and Dry

Rinse thoroughly with hot water, then allow the filter to air-dry completely. Once dry, pop it back into place.

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Why This Method Works

Baking soda reacts with fats and oils, helping to break them apart, while hot water melts grease so it can easily wash away. The dish soap lifts and emulsifies what’s left. Together, they create a powerful, low-effort cleaning combo.

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How Often Should You Clean Your Filter?

For most households, every 1–3 months is ideal. If you cook frequently—especially frying or sautéing—cleaning monthly keeps your ventilation at peak performance.

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Tips for Even Easier Maintenance

• Run your dishwasher-safe filters through a hot cycle: Many metal filters can handle it (check your manual first).

• Avoid harsh chemicals: They can damage the metal over time.

• Wipe the exterior regularly: Prevents grease from creeping onto the filter in the first place.

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A Cleaner Kitchen Starts With a Clean Filter

A greasy range hood filter may seem intimidating, but with this simple soak-and-rinse method, you can restore it with almost zero elbow grease. It’s one of the easiest ways to freshen your kitchen, improve air quality, and keep your appliances working their best—all in under 20 minutes.