Remove the filter and all other removable parts from your cooker hood
Ensure that the appliance is switched off and is not hot before you remove any parts from the cooker hood.
You should check the instruction manual for your specific appliance to find out the correct way of taking these bits off, or look it up online if you don’t still have the original care instructions to hand.
Paper filters: Remove and replace
If you are cleaning a flat extractor, it will have a paper filter that can be removed and replaced, with new paper bought from a supermarket and cut to size. However, chimney-style oven extractor fans have a metal mesh filter which is non-disposable and sometimes needs a good clean.
Carbon filters also need replacing rather than cleaning.
Metal filters: Soak for a long time, preferably overnight
Soak it in very hot, soapy water with a cup of vinegar added to help cut through the grease, and leave for as long as possible, preferably overnight.
Carefully rub down with a toothbrush
- After a long soak, give the filter and other bits a careful rub down to remove greasy residue using a toothbrush.
- You can also use a washing powder soaking solution or a bicarbonate of soda paste to work away at the greasy residue on your oven extractor filter and other components.
- When cleaning a cooker hood metal filter, it may discolour slightly, especially if using a dishwasher or detergent solution, but it will still work and won’t be obvious once the hood is reassembled.
- Remember to take recommended safety precautions and to test any unfamiliar techniques on an inconspicuous spot first.
How to clean a cooker hood surface
Kitchen cleaning products specifically designed to deal with particular surfaces, like stainless steel, are your best bet for cleaning the cooker hood.
Use a clean, soft sponge or cloth
A wire sponge or brush may leave scratches or other marks.
Apply cleaning product and start working it into the hood
- Add your cleaning product, like Cif, directly to the cooker hood and start working it all over the hood.
- Follow the instructions on the label, and test it in a small area first. Take care to avoid contact with skin and wear relevant hand protection.
- Be sure to wipe off any product left with a clean cloth to avoid smearing or staining on the hood.
- You could use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean sticky residue off the cooker hood – that way, you can reach all the crevices where grime has accumulated.