How to clean cooker hood grease with bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid

Denise noticed a sticky film of grease on her cooker hood and immediately realised that a quick wipe would not be enough. Steam from cooking had left residue, particularly on the exterior, and the surface had become progressively harder to clean over time. Rather than scrubbing forcefully, she decided to try a simple washing-up liquid and bicarbonate of soda mixture to loosen the surface grime before cleaning.

Why is grease so hard to remove from a cooker hood?

While food is being cooked, tiny grease particles can be carried by steam and hot air. Some of this material settles on surfaces near the hob, including the cooker hood, creating a coating that can become more stubborn as fresh residue builds up.

If the grease is left in place for a long period, attempting to remove it with only a dry cloth will often spread the dirt around. Allowing it to soften first can therefore make cleaning easier and lessen the need for vigorous scrubbing.

How can bicarbonate of soda and washing-up liquid help?

Washing-up liquid is designed to help lift grease, while bicarbonate of soda can support cleaning and provide mild abrasion. Used correctly, the two can help release surface residue from the outside of a cooker hood.

Denise combined a small amount of bicarbonate of soda with washing-up liquid to make a creamy paste. She then spread a thin layer over the cold surface and left it to work for a few minutes, taking care not to let the mixture dry completely.

How to apply the mixture without damaging the cooker hood

Before starting, switch off the appliance and wait until every part has cooled down. It is best to test the mixture on a small area first, particularly if the cooker hood has a delicate finish.

• Make the mixture: combine a small quantity of washing-up liquid and bicarbonate of soda until it forms a paste.
• Apply it gently: spread it over the surface grease without applying excessive pressure.
• Remove it: wipe away the mixture and residue with a soft, damp cloth.
• Finish: dry the surface to prevent water marks.

It is best to avoid highly abrasive sponges, wire wool and harsh products, especially on stainless-steel, painted or glossy surfaces. Liquids should also not be applied directly to electrical components, controls, motors or internal parts of the appliance.

What should you do when grease has built up in the filter?

The exterior is not the only area that needs attention. Reusable metal filters can collect grease over time and should be cleaned in line with the manufacturer's instructions. Disposable filters, meanwhile, must be replaced once they reach the stated limit.

Denise found that cleaning was far easier when she did not allow grease to build up for months. Regular maintenance using products suitable for the cooker hood's material helps preserve its finish and stops a thin layer of residue becoming much more difficult dirt to remove.