The often neglected fan above the stove can accumulate an unpleasant amount of grease and cause kitchen odours, so it’s crucial to clean it regularly. If your kitchen suffers from persistent condensation or strong smells, it could signal that it’s time for a good cleaning of your extractor fan, which aids in removing steam and smoke.

To get this kitchen appliance looking spick and span, cooker hood experts at Faber Hoods have shared the “ultimate” step-by-step guide. All it takes is one basic item you may have on hand in your kitchen - soda crystals. Soda crystals are formulated to dissolve and clear grease along with other residues commonly found in fans.

To clean the exterior surfaces of the cooker hood, begin by creating a paste. Mix soda crystals or baking soda with tap water in a little bowl. This paste will effectively remove grease marks and stains from the exterior surfaces of the hood.

Apply this paste evenly onto the affected areas of the hood using a sponge or cloth and let it sit for a few minutes. This will allow it to penetrate and loosen any dirt buildup.

After, wipe the surfaces with a clean, damp cloth or sponge, rinsing thoroughly with water to remove any residue.

Dry and buff the surface with a clean microfibre cloth. If the hood is stainless steel, you can also use a stainless-steel polish at this last stage. This will leave your cooker hood looking shiny and grease-free.

To remove grease from the filters, fill a wide, shallow tray with warm water and sprinkle on some soda crystals for “deep clean” and leave them to sit for five minutes.

The grease should dissolve in the soapy water. Finally, rinse the filters with tap water and allow them to air dry before replacing them.

In addition to cleaning the exterior and filters, you should clean the inside of the hood once a year to prolong the life of your cooker hood.

This simple cleaning schedule will prevent the build-up of grease and debris while keeping your home environment fresh and comfortable. 

It will also prolong the life of your appliance and keep it looking beautiful and shiny.