How to quickly clean a kitchen hood and its filter 7 best ways
The more often and the better a cooker hood performs (pick up cooking fumes and smells, cooking fumes and grease), the quicker and dirtier the filter gets. Over time the grid gets so clogged that its airflow becomes minimal. What’s more, large deposits of grease can cause a fire.
- That’s why you should wash your hood at least once every 2-4 weeks. By the way, most modern models signal the need for cleaning through special sensors on the display. For example, it can be a burning grid icon or the letter “C” (on average it is displayed every 60 hours of engine operation, but you can set the intervals yourself).
Luckily, cleaning your hood isn’t that hard, especially if you have a dishwasher.
In it, a dirty filter can be cleaned in 1 cycle at maximum time settings and a temperature of 60 degrees.
But if you don’t have a dishwasher, or if it can’t remove stale grease from your filter (a common occurrence), here are 7 simple but super-effective tricks from our article. We’ll also tell you how to properly clean grease, dust, and soot from the kitchen hood body itself.
Before you start cleaning, remove the filter from under the dome. First remove/lift the front panel of the hood, then remove the filter from the guide rail by releasing the latch. To keep the filter and panel from falling down, hold them in place with your hand.
Hoods made of different materials
Metal hoods are much easier to clean than plastic or tempered glass hoods.
Stainless Steel
You can wash grease off stainless steel quickly and easily with any tool available. Material can withstand boiling and strong chemicals. The maximum that can happen is the surface darkens.
Do not use abrasive powders and metal brushes to clean the stainless steel hood. The appearance of metal will suffer, scratches will appear from which it will be more difficult to remove dirt afterwards.
From the aluminum
Aluminum hood can be cleaned with baking soda, laundry soap, cooking salt, mustard. Acids actively oxidize the metal, and dark spots appear on the grid. Alkaline solution dissolves aluminum and renders grid unusable.
Dishwasher-safe filter must be washed separately from the dishes at a temperature of up to 65°C. Dishwasher tablets are not used.
Made of plastic
Plastic can be soaked and washed in the dishwasher at a low temperature, but must not be boiled or scrubbed with metal objects. Plastic is resistant to chemical compounds. The steam generator is only for heat resistant plastics.
Glass
Glass parts need careful handling. It is better not to rub them with powders, but use liquids, pastes and gels. Using a sponge, a soft brush to apply the detergent. With daily cleaning, you can do with a glass cleaning spray.
Dishwasher thorough cleaning in 7 steps
At first, it might seem that your dishwashers don’t need any special care, since they look clean for quite a long time. But in fact, with every wash cycle, working parts inevitably get dirty from hard water sediments, food and detergent residues. Limescale and grease build-up gradually lead to breakdowns or ineffective operation. That’s why cleaning your dishwasher is essential for a long-lasting dishwasher.
Let’s find out how to clean the dishwasher in just 7 simple steps at home. But keep in mind that this is an example of a complete set of procedures, which, of course, do not always need to be performed in their entirety. In addition, some procedures must be performed regularly and some only when a problem arises.
Cooking method. Before cleaning the hood, add wine vinegar and baking soda to 2 liters of water, then stir. Applications. Wash the filter with the solution obtained, using a brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean running water.
How to Clean Cooker Hood/chimney Filter in Dishwasher,
Newly-acquired housewives wonder whether the tray can be washed in the dishwasher. No problem really. If the size of the washing chamber allows for a tray, then it can be easily washed.
Features of exhaust filters
Kitchen air-cleaning devices are an essential attribute of any modern home. Small studio apartments involve the frequent combination of kitchen areas. Devices called “cooker hoods” help prevent kitchen smells from leaking into your home. There are several main components of a hood, all of which work together. But even the most dependable technology will require preventive maintenance over time.
While the universal kitchen filter can simply be washed in the dishwasher, the charcoal filter for the kitchen hood will need to be replaced. It is worth taking a closer look at the types of filters that exist for the kitchen hood. There is a huge number of models from different manufacturers. Understand the differences between the mesh, round filter and water filter can be difficult. It’s worth figuring out what the advantages of the combined version of the products are.
The main varieties can be divided into two large groups such as:
The first options are great to protect the hood and make the task of cleaning the cabinet easier. They can be made of a synthetic backing or paper. The latter is a one-time option and is not usable twice. Experts do not recommend washing the disposable fat filter for economical farming. Filters made of synthetic materials are easy to clean.
Grease filters are represented by the following varieties:
- Acrylic. these options are not considered durable;
- Of fleece or synthetic. these options are offered by many manufacturers; the latter products are simply replaced as they become dirty;
- made of aluminum. these are durable options, as the devices can simply be washed with any suitable cleaning agent; such a filter is presented in the form of a metal frame, which is quite easy to remove from the device;
- Of stainless steel or galvanized. these are quite common solutions.
There can be several filters in the exhaust unit. Some models are equipped with special charcoal filters. Experts consider these options to be the best in comparison with other types of products.
Carbon filters have the following advantages:
There are usually two kinds of charcoal filters in the device itself, the first of which provides a coarse cleaning, and the second. a more subtle. Both filters require regular maintenance. Carbon filters look like a cassette element. The cassette includes several cartridges that hold a powdered charcoal mixture. Sometimes they are regular pellets. Carbon filters are good at removing odors from the air, thereby purifying it.
Carbon and grease filters in some models are installed at the same time. In the device you can immediately see the grease traps, and behind them are the corners. In this way, a single device performs a complete air purification. Standard hood models require filter replacement every 3 to 4 months. For some models, annual maintenance is sufficient. Filter renewal period is related to the level of indoor air pollution.
In order to change the filters correctly, you need to study the structure of the exhaust unit in more detail.
Mesh filters that can be washed in the dishwasher
A big advantage of all Franke kitchen hoods is the availability of reusable metal grease filters. If you’re planning to use the divert mode, you don’t have to buy additional accessories. once installed, the hood is ready to go. The filter elements don’t need to be replaced. just cleaned regularly.
Bet you didn’t know. there are 26 things you can do in the dishwasher
Did you know that there are quite a few things you can wash in a dishwasher. besides dishes. And not only you can, but you should, because it not only saves you time and effort, it cuts your water consumption, and it cleans better too, thanks to the higher temperatures. Here’s a list of 26 things you can trust the machine with brief recommendations. Note that some items can be loaded at the same time as the dishes, and some need to be washed separately.
- Kitchen sponges and brushes. They wash well on the top shelf. Do it at least once a week.
- The filter from the hood. Most kitchen hoods have a removable, washable filter that traps grease. They are difficult to clean by hand, but are easy and quick to clean in the washing machine. It is better to wash the filter at a temperature of at least 90 degrees.
- Potatoes, zucchini, carrots, eggplants. You can wash vegetables in a quick rinse without detergents. Of course, if you need to wash a few potatoes, it’s easier to do it by hand. But, if you need to wash a lot of vegetables, or if you want to wash both dishes and vegetables at once, this trick will help you.
- Plastic or metal combs. Plastic combs can be loaded into the machine along with utensils at low temperatures. Warning: wooden brushes and brushes with natural bristles cannot be washed in the washer-dryer.
- Plastic and rubber children’s toys. Teething rings, rubber duckies for bathing and any plastic toys can be washed in the basket or in the grid (for example, if they are small parts like Lego construction or Kinder Suppris figurines). Toys for yard games are especially handy to wash in the dishwasher: shovels, buckets, molds, toy cars, etc.
- Ziploc bags. Simply spread the bag out on the basket prongs to allow water to penetrate completely.
- Tins for canning. Turns out you can use the dishwasher to sterilize jars. Some machines have a feature called “Sterilize.”. If your dishwasher doesn’t have this function, just choose the maximum temperature mode (at least 60 degrees).
- Soap dishes, toothbrush cups and other bathroom accessories. These are convenient to wash in the dishwasher along with the dishes in the regular mode.
- Small trash cans. For example, tabletop trash cans or trash cans that we use in the bathroom.
- Shoes. Crocs, beach flip-flops, rubber sandals, and unlined rubber boots can be washed separately on a cycle with maximum water temperature.
- Gardening tools. For example, they can be pots, scoops, rakes, watering cans, spatulas and other small tools. Make sure they do not have any wooden parts.
- Artificial flowers. If your artificial plants have no paper parts, you can also wash them from dust and dirt in the washing machine.
- Lamp shades, lampshades, and lamp diffusers. Glass and plastic parts can be washed on a gentle cycle without a drying cycle.
- Refrigerator shelves. Many refrigerator shelves and trays can be washed in the dishwasher. You may need to remove the upper basket of the machine to accommodate some of these items.
- Ventilation grills. Simply pull the grids off the wall and wash as usual.
- Vacuum cleaner nozzles. You need to remove all hair and lint from them beforehand.
- Door and furniture handles. Dull ceramic or metal doorknobs can be washed on the top shelf as normal.
- Pet supplies. Bowls, nylon leashes and toys can be washed separately on a cycle with maximum water temperature.
- Vases. Most VAZ can be washed in the dishwasher on the bottom shelf. The only exceptions are crystal vases, as well as vases with gilding, silvering and hand-painted.
- Cosmetic bags. In the dishwasher, acrylic cosmetic bags are perfectly washable from foundation stains, slipped shadows, lipstick marks.
- Decorations. Frames with raised corners, flowerpots, statuettes, piggy banks made of ceramics, metal and plastic are easy to clean from dust and dirt with one sweep in the washing machine.
- Manicure and pedicure tools. Files, pumice, scissors and pliers are recommended to be washed at a high temperature and with a cleanser to remove fungus and bacteria.
- Sports equipment. These can be mouth guards, table tennis and golf balls, shin guards and other plastic accessories.
- Grill grates, skewers. Why waste time cleaning the grid with your hands? Simply remove the top basket and place the rack on the bottom shelf.
- Accessories and tools for the car. Auto tools often get dirty with oil and dirt, but detergent and hot water do a great job with them. You can also wash rubber mats in the dishwasher (they need to be shaken out beforehand), wheel covers and removable glass deflectors.
- Body sponges. The foam or mesh washcloths can be washed on the top shelf of the machine.
And now we suggest reading the list of things you can’t wash in the dishwasher:
Typically, this type of hood can be attached directly to the ceiling. So you don’t have to be tied to the walls to find a place to mount it. Since the appliance can be hung by fixing it to the ceiling, it usually has a vertically oriented design. Many models are equipped with a mechanism that allows you to extend the umbrella by lowering it closer to the stove. During cooking, it moves closer to the cooking surface to draw out exhaust air more quickly and efficiently. Then the panel is raised so it does not overhang and clutter the space.
Like any other appliance, the hood requires periodic maintenance activities. They can be divided into several groups: purely external care, cleaning of filters and removal of contaminants from the ventilation. Some of them are the simplest, do not require interference in the construction. Others are more complicated, but it is possible to cope with the task if you follow the instructions strictly.
List of prohibited dishes
Not every material can withstand high temperatures, steam treatment during drying, and the use of aggressive chemicals. Some items rust, darken, become cloudy, crack.
Now that dishwashers are widely used in homes, dishwashing manufacturers put signs on their products that allow or prohibit the use of machine washing. If there are no such signs, you should ask whether the dishes can be tested in the washer. We’ll tell you about products that can’t be cared for with high temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Made of wood
Wood reacts badly to water and hot steam. It swells from moisture, it cracks from drying. If there is a dye layer on salad bowls and candy holders, it will not persist over time. The porous structure absorbs and retains the contents of detergents, which is bad for our health. So wooden boards, loaf pans, spoons, and other utensils should be washed by hand and wiped dry.
Disposable plastic
There are different kinds of plastic, their characteristics depend a lot on the melting temperature. We already mentioned that heat-resistant products can be washed in the dishwasher. They must be made of food-grade polyethylene terephthalate or polypropylene, these items are usually marked with approval marks.
Disposable dishes made of PVC or polystyrene, which have a low threshold of melting, can not be loaded into the dishwasher, it will be deformed and become unusable. Plastics without a labeling mark should be washed by hand.
Aluminum
Any housewife, having wonderful modern sets of utensils, will stash 1-2 aluminum pots. It is light, inexpensive, does not corrode, has good thermal conductivity, unlike enamel cookware, it does not burn the porridge. But you’ll have to wash this treasure by hand, because the protective layer that makes aluminum products shiny and safe will quickly deteriorate from high temperatures and alkalis.
The pot will turn black after the first wash. The same thing will happen with any other aluminum objects. baking pans, woks, mugs, parts of meat grinders, devices for cleaning fish or crushing garlic.
Copper, Brass
Pots, pots, kettles and other copper or brass ware will not deteriorate in the dishwasher. They do not tolerate alkaline and acidic environments, aggressive detergents, quickly lose their original color and get covered with dark stains.
Cast iron
Many people like heavy cast-iron frying pans, duck pans, cauldrons for the fact that the food in them, even the most capricious, does not stick, is well stewed and steamed. Roasters, gas stove grates and other cast iron should only be washed by hand. The environment created in the PM destroys the protective layer, the cookware begins to rust.
In places where the layer is missing, food burns and remains on the walls of the utensils.
Silver
Silver is a delicate metal, it blackens even from the air. At high humidity the product reacts with divalent sulfur, which can be in the air. This happens with low-grade silver or if there is a lot of copper in the ligature. Placed in the dishwasher, silver tableware suffers from the effects of washing detergents, it turns black and becomes stained.
Melchior
Melchior is a hard alloy composed of copper and nickel that will not shatter under the influence of boiling water, powders or hot steam but loses its noble appearance easily. Melchior ware owners should not send it to the dishwasher, because the copper contained in it reacts with household chemicals, which visibly spoils cutlery, kettles, turks, plates.
Thermos
Thermos flasks and thermoses should be washed by hand. Machine washing easily damages the insulating layer and renders the dishes useless. Even if the product does not have an insulating wrap, when washed intensively, water will get into the space between the body and the bulb. Because of the nature of the device moisture can not leave the gap, over time “suffocates” and begins to emit an unpleasant odor.
Gzhel
Blue and white ornamented ceramics, designed for everyday use, withstands machine washing well. Fine decorative items with hand-painted cobalt in the PM can not be washed in the PM, the pattern will fade with time. Hand washing with vinegar is recommended to keep the glaze shiny.
As for Faora with other types of coating (except for gilding), it can be washed in a PM using a gentle mode, but not left to dry out. Take out before “drying” mode and wipe dry with a towel.
Crystal
Delicate items should not go in the dishwasher basket. High temperatures, water pressure, vibrations have a bad effect on refined cookware. Today they already produce PMs with modes for delicate washing, and housewives come up with all sorts of ways to secure items and protect them from vibration.
In any case, it is better to wash crystal by hand and then rinse it in water with vinegar, restoring its beautiful shine.
Electric kettle
The electric kettle and any other electric kitchen appliance should not be placed in the dishwasher. Metal contacts will oxidize and the appliance becomes unusable. Even rinsing with running water, you must avoid getting moisture inside the device.
