How to clean a stainless steel extractor hood?

To clean a stainless steel extractor hood effectively, HG offers a range of products designed specifically for this purpose. These include HG stainless steel cleaner for removing grease and dirt, and HG stainless steel protector for maintaining shine and preventing dirt build-up. Household cleaning methods such as using mixtures of water with washing-up liquid, vinegar, lemon juice or natural soap are also often mentioned. However, these do not always produce consistent results and may damage the surface if used incorrectly. Regular cleaning and use of appropriate products help maintain a streak-free finish.

HG solutions for cleaning an extractor hood

For cleaning stainless steel or aluminium extractor hoods, HG offers:

To clean the exterior of your stainless steel extractor hood streak-free, you can use HG stainless-steel cleaner. This professional cleaner removes grease, dirt and fingerprints from stainless steel, chrome and aluminium surfaces, leaving a clean finish.
For optimum shine after cleaning, we recommend HG stainless steel protector. This maintenance and protective product restores shine to dull surfaces and provides a protective layer that reduces the adhesion of grease and dirt, making future cleaning easier.

Regular cleaning of filters is also essential to maintain performance and extend the lifespan of the extractor hood. Find more tips on cleaning stainless steel in our stainless steel cleaning tips.

Solutions for cleaning your extractor hood

For cleaning your stainless steel or aluminium extractor hood, there are several household solutions you can try. Whilst these methods don't always guarantee the best results and may carry some risks, they can be effective in some cases:

Use a mixture of warm water and washing-up liquid to clean the extractor hood. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth, allow it to work for a few moments and then wipe it off with a clean, damp cloth.
Try a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply it to the extractor hood, let it work for a few minutes and then wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Make a paste of water and lemon juice and apply it to the extractor hood. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
Use a mixture of water and natural soap, such as Castile soap, to clean the extractor hood. Apply it with a soft cloth, allow it to work for a few moments and then wipe it off with a clean, damp cloth.

These methods may be effective in some situations but require care and may not always deliver optimal results. For the most effective and safe cleaning of your extractor hood, it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations or consider using a professional cleaning product.

Causes of streaks and marks on stainless steel and aluminium extractor hoods

There are several reasons why your stainless steel or aluminium extractor hood may show streaks or marks after cleaning. The most common causes are:

Using overly aggressive or abrasive cleaning products, which can cause scratches on the surface.
Not rinsing cleaning products thoroughly, leaving soap residue that causes streaks.
Using a dirty or rough cloth, which spreads dirt and dust across the surface.
Allowing water droplets to dry, which leaves limescale marks.

To prevent these problems in the future, it's best to use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner that's specifically suitable for stainless steel or aluminium. Rinse the extractor hood thoroughly with clean water after cleaning and dry the surface with a soft, clean cloth to remove water droplets and soap residue. Regular maintenance and immediate removal of marks also help keep your extractor hood in optimum condition. Using suitable cleaners and proper techniques ensures your extractor hood maintains its appearance and functionality over time.