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Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Remove the Filter: Carefully take the filter out of the hood. Most filters will either slide or pop out easily. Consult your hood’s manual if you’re unsure.
Dry Dusting: Gently tap the filter over a trash can to dislodge any loose particles. A soft brush can be used for this step to remove the surface dust.
Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Fill your basin or sink with very hot water, enough to fully submerge the filter. Add a generous squirt of dish soap and ¼ to ½ cup of baking soda. The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive agent that helps break down grease without damaging the filter.
Soak: Place your filter into the solution, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, though particularly grimy filters may benefit from longer soaking times, even up to a few hours.
Scrub: After soaking, use a soft brush or non-abrasive scrubber to gently clean the filter. Pay special attention to the corners and edges where grease accumulates the most.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the filter under hot running water to remove any residual grease and cleaning solution. Ensure the water runs clear, indicating a thorough clean.
Dry: Shake off any excess water and let the filter dry completely. You can either leave it to air dry or use a clean towel to pat it dry.
Reinstall: Once dry, carefully place the filter back into the hood. Ensure it’s properly secured.
Method 3: Steam Cleaning
For those who don’t mind a bit more of a hands-on approach, using a steam cleaner can be another effective method to get your oven hood filter clean. Steam cleaning uses hot steam to break down and dissolve grease, allowing for a thorough clean. However, this method can be a bit messier than the soaking method. Here’s how to use a steam cleaner on your filter:
Safety First: Before you start, make sure your steam cleaner is in good working condition and you have protective gloves to avoid burns from the hot steam.
Prepare Your Area: Since this method can be messier, prepare your cleaning area by placing towels or newspapers underneath the workspace to catch any drips or grease.
Steam Cleaning: Turn on your steam cleaner and wait for it to heat up. Once ready, direct the steam onto the filter, moving slowly across its surface. The steam will loosen and melt the grease, which can then be wiped away with a cloth or sponge.
Wipe Down: After steam cleaning, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe away the loosened grease and grime. You may need to rinse the cloth or sponge frequently to ensure you’re not spreading the grease around.
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or grease. Shake off the excess water and let the filter air dry completely before putting it back in place.
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