Let’s be real, the range hood is the one part of your kitchen that you usually forget all about until the day that you have to move out. You wash your benchtops, you give the cooktop a quick wipe-down and you think, “Yep, she’s looking pretty good here!” until your property manager looks up, runs their finger along the filter and breaks out the cough, cough test, and finds a thick layer of grease that could have gained a third life if you’d given it a chance.
Here’s some good news: cleaning a range hood is way easier than you think it is, and you won’t even have to spend a fortune. We tell you what to do, what not to do and how to make sure your range hood looks good for the inspection.
Why Property Managers Look Closely at the Range Hood
The range hood is directly over the stove, so it gathers the steam, oil and food particles you use when cooking. Eventually, it forms a sticky film that binds to the dust. It’s obvious up close, so an inspector won’t have any trouble seeing it: a greasy filter indicates the home wasn’t cleaned thoroughly, no matter how pristine everything else looks. Twenty minutes spent here can save you a call for re-clean or a deduction from your bond.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Gather your supplies first, so you’re not hunting for them with greasy hands:
- Hot water and a large sink or tub
- Degreasing dishwashing liquid
- Baking soda
- White vinegar in a spray bottle
- A non-scratch sponge and a soft toothbrush
- Microfibre cloths and rubber gloves
- A sturdy step stool
Switch the hood and cooktop off at the wall, and make sure both are completely cool.
How to Remove and Soak the Exhaust Filter
Many hoods have a metal mesh filter that slides out or snaps off with a small lever on the bottom of the hood. (Let’s be honest, it’s probably dirty and greasy, so be gentle.) Fill your sink with very hot water, a squirt or two of dishwashing liquid, and half a cup of baking soda.
Let the filter soak in the water for 10 or 15 minutes, or until the water turns cloudy and greasy. Then rinse it in hot water and scrub it with a soft brush before hanging it to dry.
Check Which Type of Filter Your Range Hood Uses
Not all filters are washable. You can wash filters made from aluminium or stainless steel in a dishwasher (check the manual as a dishwasher can discolour aluminium). Recirculating hoods will have a charcoal filter, which can’t be cleaned and will need to be replaced. If you aren’t sure whether your filter is charcoal and is gunged up, check with your property manager whether they are expecting a replacement instead of assuming.
How to Clean the Range Hood Exterior and Underside
While the filter is soaking, clean the hood. Give the outer and underside a clean with a microfibre cloth and warm soapy water. Use it in the direction of the grain for stainless steel to prevent streaks and scratches. Clean all around light covers, edges and control buttons where grease and fingerprints settle and use a toothbrush for difficult corners. Lightly spray it with a microfiber cloth with a little white vinegar and give the surface a wipe. Finally, wipe out the cavity where the filter sits as much as you can reach.
How to Remove Stubborn Baked-On Grease
If a patch stubbornly refuses to loosen, combine some baking soda and just enough water to form a thick paste. Cover the grease patch with the paste, wait ten minutes and scrub with an abrasive-free cleaning sponge. To loosen sticky gunk, soak a rag in hot, soapy water and hold it on the patch for a minute or two until the gunk loosens up. Never scrub with steel wool or abrasive pads as they scratch your finish.
Common Range Hood Cleaning Mistakes That Can Cost You Your Bond
A few easy slips can undo your hard work:
- Mixing products: Do not combine bleach with vinegar or ammonia-based cleaners-they produce toxic fumes. Use one product at a time, rinsing between products.
- Barring abrasives scrubbers: scratches on stainless steel are not temporary.
- Damp filter: Refit again; only leave it until the filter is completely dry.
- No light cover: Greasy lights are easily recognisable.
- Procrastinate: Grease requires plenty of time to remove. Plan ahead.
A Quick Final Check Before the Inspection
Once all is dry and in its place, switch the hood on to make sure the fan runs and the light works. Replace any blown bulb. Make sure the filter fits snugly and then, in good light, go over the surface for streaks and handprints and finally give it a wipe.
Conclusion: Get Your Range Hood Inspection-Ready
A clean range hood might seem a small thing, but it can really transform your entire kitchen. A little soaking and warm soapy scrubbing with patience will leave your range hood sparkling; if you’d rather not get covered in grease and just get on the move, the Bond Cleaning Brisbane team will make your range hood, oven and the rest of your rental shine so you can approach your final inspection with confidence.
FAQs
1. How do I clean my range hood before an inspection?
Begin by shutting off the power, then clean the outer surface and the underside of the range hood with degreasing cleaner. Make sure to pay special attention to areas where grease tends to accumulate such as the fan, vents, and the edges.
2. How do I clean a greasy exhaust filter?
Take out the filter and give it a wash in hot water with some dish soap or degreaser. Leave it for 15-30 minutes, scrub off the grease, rinse and air dry.
3. Can I put my range hood filter in the dishwasher?
Some metal filters are dishwasher safe, but you should check the manufacturer’s instructions. If not sure, hand washing in hot water and a degreaser is safer.
4. How often should I clean my range hood before an inspection?
Ideally, clean it several days in advance of the inspection so you will be able to check for any residual grease, spots or accumulation and give it another cleaning should that be needed.
5. What parts of the range hood should I clean before inspection?
Wash the outside, underside, grease filters, fan section, vents, edges and anything around the hood. Make sure you clean the spots in less visible areas, which often include behind or around the filters.
