While kitchen counters and floors get regular attention, one crucial appliance often gets forgotten: the extractor fan. The cooker hood filter is vital for maintaining a clean and healthy cooking environment, yet it can quickly become clogged with stubborn grease and grime.
The Hidden Health Hazard in Your Kitchen
When extractor fan filters are blocked, they stop working effectively. This means you could be inhaling harmful pollutants and lingering cooking odours every time you prepare a meal. Experts, as reported by the Express, suggest a thorough clean every two to three months, though this frequency should increase if you do a lot of frying or use substantial amounts of oil.
The 15-Minute Baking Soda Solution
Cleaning these filters is far simpler than many assume, and you likely already have the key ingredient in your cupboard. DIY enthusiast Melissa, on her TikTok account @the_daily_diy, shared her fast and effective method using bicarbonate of soda, also known as baking soda.
The magic lies in how baking soda reacts with oils and fats, breaking them down completely. It also neutralises unpleasant smells, tackling both grease and odours simultaneously.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Spotless Filter
Melissa's method requires minimal effort and no scrubbing. First, find a large pot big enough to hold at least half of your cooker hood filter and fill it with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
Gradually stir in one cup of baking soda, adding it slowly to prevent the mixture from fizzing over the pot's edge. Once fully combined, submerge the greasy filter in the boiling solution. If your filter is large, you may need to clean one half at a time.
Let the filter bubble away for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, you will see grease and grime begin to lift and float to the surface. Afterwards, remove the filter and rinse it thoroughly under hot tap water until the water runs clear. For any remaining stubborn patches, simply repeat the process with fresh water and baking soda.
How to Prevent Future Grease Build-Up
To make deep cleans less frequent and keep your extractor fan running efficiently, adopt a simple maintenance routine. Each time you use the hob, wipe down the cooker hood grease filter with a cloth or paper towel. Always ensure the fan and hood have cooled down completely before you start cleaning.
This regular wipe-down between major cleans will significantly reduce grease accumulation, ensuring your kitchen stays fresher and your extractor fan performs at its best for longer.
