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Can Cooker Hood Filters Go in the Dishwasher?

Cooker hoods are essential for keeping your kitchen clean, fresh, and free from grease and odours. But like any hardworking appliance, they need a bit of upkeep—especially the filters. A common question is: can cooker hood filters go in the dishwasher? The answer depends on the type of filter you have. In this article, we’ll explain which filters are dishwasher-safe, how to clean them properly, and when to opt for manual cleaning or replacement.

Types of Cooker Hood Filters

Before you place your filter in the dishwasher, it’s important to know what kind you’re dealing with:

Metal filters – Usually made of aluminium or stainless steel; often dishwasher-safe.
Charcoal filters – Designed to absorb odours; not washable and must be replaced.
Paper or fabric filters – Single-use only; must be disposed of when dirty.

Filter Type	Dishwasher Safe?	Notes
Aluminium Mesh	Yes	May discolour over time
Stainless Steel	Yes	Best washed on the top rack
Charcoal	No	Replace every 3–6 months
Paper/Fabric	No	Disposable only

Are Metal Cooker Hood Filters Dishwasher Safe?

Yes, most metal filters are dishwasher safe, especially those made from aluminium mesh or stainless steel. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Aluminium may tarnish or discolour in the dishwasher. This doesn’t affect performance but may alter the appearance.
Avoid harsh detergents or high heat cycles, which can cause damage over time.
Place the filter on the top rack to reduce exposure to intense heat and avoid warping.

When You Shouldn’t Use a Dishwasher

Although many metal filters can go in the dishwasher, there are times when it’s best to wash them by hand:

Very greasy filters may release thick grease into your dishwasher, clogging the drain or coating your dishes.
Filters with plastic components may not withstand dishwasher heat.
If your dishwasher struggles with greasy loads, it’s safer to clean them manually.

How to Clean Cooker Hood Filters in the Dishwasher

Follow these steps for safe and effective dishwasher cleaning:

Remove the filter following your cooker hood’s instructions.
Rinse off excess grease under warm water.
Place on the top rack of the dishwasher, lying flat.
Run a normal cycle with standard detergent (avoid tablets with bleach).
Let it dry completely before reinstalling to prevent mould or rust.

Tip: Clean your filters every 1–3 months depending on how often you cook.

Alternative: Manual Cleaning Method

If you prefer a gentler approach, manual cleaning is simple and effective:

Fill a sink or basin with hot water and washing-up liquid (add bicarbonate of soda for extra degreasing power).
Soak the filter for 15–30 minutes.
Scrub gently with a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge.
Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before replacing.

What About Charcoal or Paper Filters?

Charcoal and disposable filters should never be washed. They’re designed to trap odours and grease and must be replaced once they’re saturated.

Charcoal filters: Replace every 3–6 months, depending on usage.
Paper/fabric filters: Replace when they appear greasy or dirty.

Always refer to your cooker hood’s manual for specific replacement guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some metal grease filters can go in the dishwasher, but always check your manufacturer’s guide first. Carbon filters must never be washed.

Only aluminium or stainless steel grease filters are typically dishwasher safe. Charcoal filters are not and should be replaced regularly instead.

Clean grease filters every 1–3 months, depending on cooking frequency. Regular cleaning improves extraction performance and prevents fire hazards.

Place the filters flat on the top rack, use a gentle cycle and avoid strong detergents. Ensure the filters are fully dry before reinstalling.

Over time, dishwasher cleaning may dull aluminium filters or cause discolouration. Hand-washing is gentler if you want to preserve the finish.

Dirty filters reduce airflow, increase odours, and can become a fire risk. Neglecting maintenance also shortens the lifespan of your cooker hood.

Grease filters can be cleaned and reused. Carbon filters, however, must be replaced every 3–6 months to keep odour control effective.

Conclusion

So, can cooker hood filters go in the dishwasher? Yes—for most metal filters, they can. Just be sure to follow the right precautions and always check your manufacturer’s instructions. For charcoal and paper filters, skip the dishwasher and replace them when needed.

Regular cleaning helps your cooker hood work more efficiently and keeps your kitchen a safer, more pleasant space.