How Often Should You Clean Your Oven, Hob, and Extractor?

No one loves cleaning the kitchen, especially the oven, hob, and extractor fan. But these three areas are where grease, grime, and cooking smells build up fastest. Search “How Often Should You Clean Your Oven, Hob, and Extractor?” and you’ll get a mix of answers, but let’s break down what actually works in real homes, and how often you really need to tackle each job.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters

It’s tempting to leave oven and hob cleaning until absolutely necessary, but over time, burnt-on grease and food spills can damage surfaces and even affect the performance of your appliances. A clogged extractor can’t properly remove smoke and odours, which can make your kitchen feel stuffy and unpleasant. Regular cleaning keeps your appliances working efficiently, reduces fire risk, and helps your kitchen smell fresher.

How Often Should You Clean Each Appliance?

Oven
For most households, a deep oven clean every 3–6 months is ideal. If you cook daily or use the oven for roasting and baking, aim closer to every 3 months. Wipe down spills after each use while the oven is still slightly warm (but not hot) to make deep cleans easier.

Hob
The hob should be cleaned after every use. Daily wipe-downs prevent food from baking onto the surface and keep it looking presentable. Once a week, remove any detachable parts like burner caps or rings and give them a soak in warm soapy water.

Extractor
Extractor fans are often forgotten until they start making noise or lose suction. Clean the exterior and filters every month to prevent grease build-up. Many modern extractors have removable metal filters that can go straight into the dishwasher. If yours doesn’t, soak it in hot, soapy water with a splash of vinegar or degreaser.

Signs It’s Time for a Deep Clean

Even with regular upkeep, sometimes your kitchen appliances will tell you when they need attention. Watch out for:

Persistent cooking smells, even when you haven’t used the oven recently.
Smoke or burning smells during cooking.
Visible grease on extractor filters or hob surfaces.
The oven taking longer to heat up or cooking unevenly.

Quick Tips for Easier Oven, Hob, and Extractor Cleaning

Line oven trays with foil or reusable liners to catch drips.
Use baking soda and vinegar as natural cleaners to cut through grease.
For stubborn oven grime, apply a paste of baking soda overnight and wipe clean in the morning.
Always switch off appliances and let them cool before cleaning.
Don’t forget the knobs, handles, and control panels — they’re often the grubbiest spots.

When to Book a Professional Cleaner

If your oven, hob, or extractor hasn’t been cleaned in a long time (we’ve all been there), it might be worth getting a professional deep clean. Specialist cleaners use safe, high-grade products to remove years of build-up quickly and safely — no toxic fumes or endless scrubbing required. You’ll get a cleaner finish and extend the life of your appliances.

Cleaner Connect makes it easy to find local cleaners who offer professional oven and kitchen cleaning services. All cleaners are verified with ID and insurance before being listed, so you can hire with confidence.