How to Clean a Kitchen Exhaust Fan and Range Hood: Remove Grease Buildup

The kitchen range hood and exhaust fan work hard to capture grease, smoke, and steam every time you cook. Over time, grease accumulates on every surface — the exterior, interior, filters, and fan blades. A dirty range hood is not just unsightly; it's a fire hazard and reduces ventilation efficiency significantly. Here's how to clean every part.

How Often Should You Clean Your Range Hood?

Filters: Monthly (or every 2-3 weeks if you cook frequently).
Exterior and interior surfaces: Monthly.
Fan blades: Every 3-6 months.

What You'll Need

Lysol Pro Kitchen Degreaser
Dish soap (grease-cutting formula)
Baking soda
Boiling water
Microfiber cloths
Non-scratch scrub sponge
Old toothbrush
Large basin or sink for soaking filters

Step 1: Clean the Exterior

Unplug or turn off the range hood at the circuit breaker.
Spray kitchen degreaser onto a microfiber cloth — never spray directly onto the hood as it can drip into electrical components.
Wipe all exterior surfaces, including the top, sides, and underside.
For stainless steel hoods, wipe in the direction of the grain.
Follow with a clean damp cloth to remove degreaser residue, then dry.

Step 2: Clean the Filters

See our dedicated range hood filter cleaning guide for detailed methods. In brief:

Mesh/aluminum filters: Soak in boiling water with dish soap and baking soda for 15-30 minutes, scrub, and rinse. Or run through the dishwasher on the hottest cycle.
Charcoal/carbon filters: Cannot be cleaned — replace every 3-6 months.

Step 3: Clean the Interior Hood Cavity

With the filters removed, spray the interior cavity with kitchen degreaser on a cloth.
Wipe all interior surfaces.
Use an old toothbrush to scrub around the filter housing and any crevices.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry.

Step 4: Clean the Fan Blades (Every 3-6 Months)

Locate the fan (usually accessible after removing the filters).
Spray degreaser on a cloth and wipe each fan blade carefully.
Use a toothbrush for the blade edges and the area around the motor housing.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth — be careful not to get moisture near the motor.
Allow to dry completely before restoring power.

Step 5: Clean the Light Covers

Remove the light covers (usually twist or snap off).
Wash in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry completely before replacing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove hardened grease from a range hood?

Apply kitchen degreaser on a cloth and let sit on the greasy area for 5-10 minutes to soften the hardened grease before wiping. For very stubborn buildup, apply a baking soda paste, let sit 15 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean.

Can I use the dishwasher to clean range hood filters?

Yes — most aluminum mesh filters are dishwasher-safe. Run on the hottest cycle. Check your manual to confirm. Charcoal filters are never dishwasher-safe and must be replaced.

How do I know if my range hood filter needs replacing vs. cleaning?

Aluminum mesh filters can be cleaned repeatedly. Charcoal/carbon filters cannot be cleaned and must be replaced every 3-6 months. If your hood has a filter replacement indicator light, follow its guidance.

Why is my range hood not removing smoke effectively?

Clogged filters are the most common cause. Clean or replace the filters. Also check that the exhaust duct is not blocked and that the fan blades are clean and spinning freely.

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