Cleaning a greasy oven hood filter ranks among those household chores that most of us truly loathe. The accumulated grease can seem as though it will never come off, and it’s all too easy to let the filter remain dirty for far too long. However, if you neglect to clean it, it can disrupt your kitchen’s ventilation and even pose a fire hazard.
My Nana, though, has a special for this arduous task. She firmly believes in a straightforward approach that doesn’t demand much effort. After I gave it a try myself, I was astounded by how effectively it worked. Here’s how it works.
Why You Must Clean Your Oven Hood Filter
Before delving into the effortless solution, it’s crucial to understand why this chore holds such significance. The oven hood filter is designed to capture the grease and oil generated during cooking, maintaining clean and fresh-smelling air in your kitchen. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with grease, diminishing its effectiveness. It can also present a safety risk, such as triggering grease fires. Regular cleaning ensures proper air circulation and extends the lifespan of your hood.
But if you’ve ever attempted to scrub it, you’re well aware that it’s far from enjoyable. That’s precisely where Nana’s magical trick comes in.
The Trick: Utilizing Boiling Water and Baking Soda
What You’ll Require:
- A large pot or a deep basin.
- Boiling water.
- Baking soda (roughly 1/4 to 1/2 cup, depending on the size of the filter).
- A dish brush or a sponge (if desired).
That’s all! With just a few items you likely already have at home, you can clean your oven hood filter without exerting excessive effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Boil a Pot of Water
First, bring a substantial pot of water to a rolling boil. You need sufficient water to completely submerge the filter. Nana always emphasized that the hotter the water, the better, so ensure the water reaches a vigorous boil. - Add Baking Soda (Gradually)
Once the water is boiling, slowly add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of baking soda to the pot. Proceed slowly to avoid creating a messy fizz. Baking soda serves as a mild scrubbing agent and a natural degreaser. It can break down stubborn grease without the use of harsh chemicals. - Submerge the Greasy Filter
Carefully place your greasy oven hood filter into the pot or basin. If the pot isn’t large enough to accommodate the entire filter, you can do one side at a time or utilize a deep sink to hold the boiling water. - Let the Filter Soak
This is where the magic occurs with minimal effort. Once the filter is immersed in the water, the boiling water and baking soda commence breaking down the grease. You’ll observe the grease detaching from the filter and floating to the water’s surface. Allow the filter to soak for at least 10 to 15 minutes. If the filter is extremely greasy, you can leave it in for a longer duration, but even severely soiled filters typically don’t require much scrubbing after soaking. - Rinse the Filter
After soaking, use tongs or gloves to carefully remove the filter from the hot water. Exercise caution to avoid burns. You’ll notice that the grease has already dissolved or loosened significantly. Rinse the filter under warm running water to eliminate any remaining dirt. If necessary, you can gently scrub it with a brush or a sponge, but in most cases, the water and baking soda will have accomplished the majority of the work. - Let It Dry
Once the filter is clean, allow it to air dry thoroughly before reinstalling it in your range hood. And that’s it! No strenuous scrubbing, no toxic cleaners, and minimal effort!
How This Trick Works
The secret behind this cleaning hack lies in the combination of hot water and baking soda. Boiling water softens the accumulated grease, facilitating its removal from the filter’s surface. Baking soda, with its mild scrubbing capabilities and alkaline properties, aids in breaking down the grease without scratching or damaging the filter. When these two elements unite, they form an effective cleaning solution that can effortlessly dissolve stubborn grease.
Unlike dish soap, which may struggle with excessive grease, baking soda chemically reacts with the fats, breaking them down. Additionally, it’s inexpensive and environmentally friendly, aspects that Nana always held dear.
Why This Method Outshines Scrubbing
There are numerous grease-cutting sprays and degreasers available for purchase, but they typically demand substantial scrubbing and effort to be effective. Moreover, they are laden with chemicals that can be harmful to your hands and the environment.
