The extractor hood is one of the elements that accumulates the most grease in the kitchen as it is dedicated to extracting fumes that generate grease and waste. Keeping it clean is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also extends the life of the hood and can help you save money in the long term. Let's take a step-by-step look at how to clean and protect it.
why is it important to clean the cooker hood?
If it is not cleaned regularly, the hood can become less effective at absorbing fumes, accumulate bad smells and even become a source of bacteria that can compromise the hygiene of the kitchen. All this has a direct impact on the quality of the air you breathe while cooking.
how often is cleaning recommended?
This is the ideal cleaning rhythm in parts:
- The outside once a week
- The filters at least once a month.
- The inside and the motor require a more thorough maintenance every 3 to 6 months, depending on the use you make of your cooker. If you usually cook fried or very fatty dishes, it is advisable to shorten these intervals.
what products and materials are needed before starting?
You can choose between more natural or chemical options, but the essential ones are:
- Hot water and neutral soap
- White vinegar or baking soda (for natural cleaning)
- Specific kitchen degreaser (for more encrusted grease)
- Microfibre sponges and cloths
- Soft bristle brush
- Cleaning gloves
This way you can choose between a natural and ecological method or a more powerful one with specific products.
how to clean the outside of the cooker hood?
The outside of the hood often gets dirty with splashes and dust. If it is made of stainless steel, it is best to wipe it with a soft cloth dampened in soapy water and then dry it with a cotton cloth to avoid marks. For more stubborn stains, white vinegar or a special steel cleaner are effective options.
If you are thinking of renovating your kitchen, you may be interested to know the advantages of invisible extractor hoods, which not only blend elegantly into the design, but are also much easier to maintain.
how to dismantle and clean cooker hood filters?
Filters are the ones that accumulate the most grease and require regular maintenance. To clean them:
- Dismantle the filters according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Leave them to soak in hot water with soap or vinegar for 15-20 minutes.
- Scrub with a soft brush until all the grease is removed.
- Dry them thoroughly before replacing them.
On some models, the filters are dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning even easier.
If you have an invisible extractor hood model, it may be a little more complex to dismantle, so it is best to check the manual for the correct way to do it.
Cleaning the inside of the hood and the motor
The inside of the hood should be cleaned with a damp cloth and a little degreaser, avoiding the product reaching the motor. If the grease is very encrusted, use bicarbonate of soda with hot water.
As for the motor, the best thing to do is to check the manufacturer's manual and, if necessary, request professional maintenance to ensure that it is working properly.
how to remove stubborn fat?
When grease accumulates for too long, it can be difficult to remove. In such cases, apply a powerful degreaser and leave for a few minutes before scrubbing. Another option is to prepare a homemade mixture of baking soda and hot water to form a paste, which acts as a natural and safe cleaner.
If you are still not sure which system to install in your kitchen, we recommend you read this guide on hood or extractor fan to choose the best option according to your space and needs.
Tips to keep the extractor hood cleaner for longer
- Use the hood every time you cook, even when boiling water.
- Wipe off external splashes on the spot so that they do not become encrusted.
- Turn it on a few minutes before cooking and off a few minutes after, to ensure that it absorbs all the fumes.
- Do regular cleaning rather than waiting for grease to build up.
Also be aware of the difference between a cooker hood and an extractor fan: the latter usually requires more frequent cleaning.
Conclusion
Remember that a clean cooker hood not only extends the life of the appliance, but also helps to keep the air in your kitchen cleaner and healthier.
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