When was the last time your kitchen hood was really clean, other than when you bought it? Do you even clean your kitchen hood?
Do you clean at all? kitchen hood? The kitchen hood is one of the busiest, yet most overlooked, household appliances. It hunts every day grease, steam and odors, but it rarely gets the attention it needs.
When plaque starts to build up inside it, it's not just the appearance that suffers. Capacity drops, noise increases, the air remains heavy. Regular cleaning is not a matter of aesthetics, but functionality and long-term use.
Why does the kitchen hood get dirty faster than it seems?
Fat in the air is invisible, but persistent. During cooking, it adheres to metal surfaces, filters and the inside of the hood. Over time, it turns into a sticky layer that traps dust and odors.
The hood has to work harder to achieve the same effect, which means more noise and higher energy consumption. If the condition is neglected, deposits harden and cleaning becomes more difficult.
What to prepare before starting cleaning
Before starting to clean the hood unplug from the mains and let it cool completely. In a bowl, prepare warm (not hot) water and add to it one to two tablespoons of baking sodaThe solution should be slightly alkaline, not aggressive.
Use it soft cloth or sponge and wring it out well so that it does not drip. Clean the surface of the hood using gentle circular movements, without rubbing hard. Pay special attention to the edges and areas around the filters, where grease accumulates most quickly.
After cleaning, wipe the surface with a damp, clean cloth, then dry it with an old towel to prevent stains and water marks. Rough sponges, Do not use wire brushes or abrasive cleaners as they may permanently damage the metal surface or protective layer.
Cleaning metal filters without complications
Metal filters are the heart of the hood and the part that gets dirty the fastest. Most of them can be easily removed. The most effective approach is soaking in hot water with the addition of a degreaser or baking soda.
After approximately twenty minutes The grease will soften and can be removed with a soft sponge. The filters should be thoroughly rinsed and completely dried before being reinstalled.
How to clean the inside of a hood
The interior parts are often overlooked, but this is where the most deposits accumulate. Wipe accessible surfaces with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Pay special attention to edges and joints, where grease tends to accumulate. Water should not penetrate electrical parts, so moderation is important.
An exterior that says more than you think
The exterior of the hood is the first thing anyone notices when entering the kitchen. Fingerprints and stains quickly spoil the impression.
Regularly wiping with a gentle cleanser and a dry cloth prevents the accumulation of stubborn stains. With stainless steel, it makes sense to wipe in the direction of the sanding, as this way the surface remains even and without marks.
How often is it reasonable to clean?
The frequency depends on the habits in the kitchenIt is recommended to clean the filters when cooking regularly. at least once a monthand the exterior should be wiped weekly. Small but regular interventions prevent the fat from hardening and requiring more aggressive interventions.
The difference is noticeable immediately. The air is lighter, the noise is less pronounced, and odors are removed more quickly.
