Have you ever wondered how to clean the exhaust fan in the kitchen without spending hours scrubbing away sticky grease? You’re not alone! The exhaust fan is one of the most ignored parts of the kitchen, yet it works the hardest. It removes smoke, odours, and oil particles from your cooking area — keeping your kitchen fresh and clean. But when grease builds up, it becomes noisy, less effective, and can even spread bad smells.

Don’t worry cleaning your exhaust fan isn’t as difficult as it sounds. With a few easy steps and regular maintenance, you can bring back its shine and make it work like new again!

Why It’s Important to Clean the Kitchen Exhaust Fan

Before we jump into the steps, let’s understand why cleaning the exhaust fan is important:

Removes Sticky Grease and Dirt: Cooking releases oil particles that settle on the blades and grills. Over time, it becomes a thick, sticky layer that slows down the fan.
Improves Air Quality: A clean fan removes smoke, heat, and odours more efficiently, keeping your kitchen comfortable.
Saves Electricity: When your fan runs smoothly, it uses less power.
Increases Lifespan: Regular cleaning helps prevent motor damage and extends the life of your exhaust fan.
Keeps the Kitchen Hygienic: A dirty fan attracts dust and bacteria, which can spread through the air while cooking.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Here are the basic tools and materials you should gather before cleaning your exhaust fan:

Screwdriver (to remove the fan cover)
Dishwashing liquid or degreaser
Warm water
Baking soda (optional for tough grease)
Old toothbrush or soft brush
Microfiber cloth or sponge
A small bowl
Gloves (to protect your hands)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean the Exhaust Fan in the Kitchen

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Before touching anything, switch off the power to the exhaust fan. Safety first! You can either unplug it or turn off the main power supply.

Step 2: Remove the Cover or Grill

Most exhaust fans have a removable front grill or cover. Use a screwdriver to gently unscrew and remove it. Be careful, as it might have grease buildup.

Step 3: Soak the Cover in Warm Soapy Water

Take a bucket or tub of warm water mixed with dishwashing liquid. Dip the fan cover or grill and let it soak for 15–20 minutes. This helps loosen the grease and dirt.

Step 4: Clean the Blades

Use a damp cloth or sponge dipped in soapy water to wipe each blade gently. If your exhaust fan is removable, take it out and clean it separately. You can use an old toothbrush for tight corners.

Step 5: Clean the Motor Area Carefully

Never use too much water near the motor. Instead, use a dry or slightly damp cloth to wipe the surrounding area. Avoid spraying water directly on the motor to prevent damage.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

After soaking, scrub the grill with a brush to remove leftover grease. Rinse it under clean water and let it dry completely before reassembling.

Step 7: Reassemble and Test

Once everything is dry, reattach the cover and turn the power back on. Your fan should now run smoothly and quietly — like new!

Natural Cleaning Methods (Eco-Friendly Options)

If you prefer chemical-free kitchen cleaning, here are a few natural alternatives you can try:

1. Vinegar & Baking Soda Mix:

Mix 1 part vinegar and 1 part warm water, then add 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
Spray this on the blades and cover, leave for 10 minutes, and wipe clean.

2. Lemon Juice Cleaner:

Mix lemon juice with warm water and wipe the blades for a fresh scent and grease removal.
These natural cleaners are safe, budget-friendly, and keep your kitchen smelling amazing!

How Often Should You Clean Your Kitchen Exhaust Fan?

Ideally, you should clean your exhaust fan every 3 months. However, if you cook daily (especially oily or spicy food), once a month is better. Regular cleaning keeps your kitchen free from odour and helps the fan perform better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While cleaning, make sure you avoid these common errors:

Don’t use too much water near the motor.
Avoid metal scrubbers, as they can scratch the blades.
Don’t skip drying completely before reassembling.
Never clean while the fan is still connected to power.

When to Call a Professional Cleaning Service

If your exhaust fan hasn’t been cleaned for years or the grease is too stubborn, it’s best to call professional cleaning experts.

At Busy Bucket Services, we use zero-chemical and eco-friendly cleaning techniques to clean exhaust fans, chimneys, and entire kitchens safely and effectively. Our trained team removes deep grease and ensures your fan works perfectly again without any damage.

Conclusion

Now you know how to clean the exhaust fan in the kitchen the easy way! It doesn’t take much time, and the results are totally worth it — a fresh, clean, and odour-free kitchen.

If you’re short on time or want a deep cleaning done professionally, Busy Bucket Services is here to help. We offer expert kitchen cleaning, bathroom cleaning, sofa cleaning, and water tank cleaning across Mohali, Chandigarh, Zirakpur, Panchkula, and Dehradun.