How to clean extractor filters with three natural ingredients — no elbow grease required

Extractor fan filters are one of the most challenging items to clean in the kitchen. They are visible above the cooktop, making them impossible to hide, and they can become clogged with steam, grease, and odors while in use. Although not always dishwasher-safe, extractor fans can be cleaned effectively with natural ingredients, as demonstrated by Lynsey Crombie on Instagram. The required cleaning staples are bicarbonate of soda, vinegar, and water.

To start, remove the filter from the extractor fan and place it in a baking pan. Sprinkle the filter generously with baking soda, and pour hot water over it directly from an electric kettle. Use a stiff scrubbing brush to gently lift the grease and grime from the filter. If baking soda is not available, Crombie suggests soaking the dirty filters in warm water and adding a little white vinegar for the same effect.

Another method involves creating a paste with water and bicarbonate of soda at a 1:3 ratio. Coat the extractor filter with the paste and let it sit for 20 minutes. Afterward, spray the surface with an equal mixture of white vinegar and warm water, allowing it to fizz. Once the fizzing subsides, scrub the filters to remove any remaining residue, rinse them thoroughly, and allow them to dry before reinstalling them. Regular cleaning of extractor filters will help prevent the need for more intensive degreasing in the future.