Do Cooker Hoods Remove Grease from the Air Effectively?

Yes — a cooker hood is designed to remove grease, smoke, and odours produced while cooking. However, how well it removes grease depends on the type of hood, the quality of its filters, and how often it’s cleaned.

How Cooker Hoods Capture Grease

Cooker hoods use a grease filterA mesh or baffle filter that traps airborne grease particles before they can circulate in the kitchen. to trap tiny grease particles before they settle on your walls or cabinets. These filters are usually made from aluminium or stainless steel and are designed to be removable and washable.

Extraction vs Recirculation Hoods

• Extraction hoods pull air through grease filters and then vent it outside — highly effective at removing both grease and steam.
• Recirculating hoods filter the air through grease and carbon filters before releasing it back into the kitchen — good for grease removal, but less efficient for odours and humidity.

Maximising Grease Removal

• Clean your grease filters monthly to keep airflow strong.
• Use your hood on a higher speed setting when frying or grilling.
• Replace carbon filters (for recirculating models) every 3–6 months.

Key Takeaway

Cooker hoods are highly effective at removing grease from the air when properly maintained. Keeping your filters clean and choosing the right type of hood ensures your kitchen stays fresh, clean, and free from lingering residue.