In the high-paced environment of commercial kitchens, cleanliness is more than a matter of presentation—it’s a matter of safety, efficiency, and compliance. One of the most crucial yet often overlooked areas is the kitchen canopy, also known as the range hood or exhaust hood. Over time, kitchen canopies accumulate grease, oil, and grime, turning into a fire hazard and a magnet for bacteria.
Proper canopy cleaning is essential not just for hygiene but also for maintaining airflow, reducing fire risk, and meeting strict health and safety standards. In this guide, we’ll explain how to clean a kitchen canopy effectively, what tools you’ll need, how often to clean it, and when to call in professionals like Hygene Hood Cleaning—Australia’s trusted name in commercial kitchen exhaust system maintenance. Visit hygenehoodcleaning or call today at +61-452-638-894 to keep your kitchen compliant and spotless.
Why Cleaning Your Kitchen Canopy is Important
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s understand why kitchen canopy cleaning is a top priority in commercial food establishments:
✅ Fire Safety
Grease build-up inside the canopy and ductwork is highly flammable. Regular cleaning helps prevent grease fires, which can spread rapidly and cause catastrophic damage.
✅ Health & Hygiene
A dirty canopy can harbour bacteria, mould, and unpleasant odours. It also affects the overall air quality in your kitchen, posing risks to both employees and customers.
✅ Equipment Efficiency
Clogged canopies hinder ventilation, forcing fans to work harder and increasing your energy bills. Clean systems mean better airflow and lower operating costs.
✅ Legal Compliance
In Australia, standards like AS 1851 require regular maintenance of kitchen exhaust systems. Failing to comply can result in fines, closures, or voided insurance policies.
How Often Should You Clean a Kitchen Canopy?
The frequency depends on your kitchen’s usage level:
| Kitchen Usage | Recommended Cleaning Frequency |
| Light (2–6 hrs/day) | Monthly |
| Moderate (6–12 hrs/day) | Bi-weekly |
| Heavy (12+ hrs/day) | Weekly |
If you’re unsure, a site assessment from Hygene Hood Cleaning can help create a custom maintenance plan based on your kitchen’s needs.
Tools & Equipment You’ll Need
Cleaning a kitchen canopy requires more than a sponge and some detergent. For a thorough job, you’ll need:
✔ Degreasing solution (commercial-grade)
✔ Protective gloves and goggles
✔ Scraper or putty knife
✔ Hot water or steam cleaner
✔ Non-abrasive scrub brushes
✔ Buckets, cloths, and drying towels
✔ Ladder or step stool (if needed)
✔ Plastic sheeting (to protect surrounding areas)
Note: For industrial-grade results, professionals like Hygene Hood Cleaning use steam degreasers, vacuum systems, and environmentally safe chemicals.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Kitchen Canopy
Step 1: Turn Off the Power and Cover the Surroundings
Before starting, turn off the exhaust fan and power supply to avoid any electrical hazards. Use plastic sheeting or cloths to cover nearby cooking equipment and surfaces to catch drips and debris.
Step 2: Remove and Soak Filters
The canopy filters (usually baffle or mesh) are the greasiest parts and must be removed.
✔ Carefully take them out of the hood.
✔ Soak in hot water mixed with heavy-duty degreaser for 30-60 minutes.
✔ Scrub with a brush to remove all grease deposits.
✔ Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.
Pro Tip: Never use boiling water on aluminium filters, as it can cause discolouration or warping.
Step 3: Clean the Interior of the Canopy
With the filters out, you can now access the inside walls of the canopy.
✔ Spray the interior surfaces with a grease-cutting cleaner.
✔ Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the buildup.
✔ Use a non-abrasive brush or cloth to scrub away grime.
✔ For stubborn spots, use a plastic scraper.
✔ Wipe down with a damp cloth and dry with a clean towel.
Step 4: Clean the Exterior
Don’t forget the outside of your canopy—it’s visible to staff and sometimes customers.
✔ Use a mild cleaner or stainless steel polish.
✔ Wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid streaks.
✔ Dry completely to prevent water spots.
Step 5: Clean and Inspect the Duct and Fan
This part is trickier and riskier—it’s where most fires start if not cleaned. If your ductwork and fan are accessible, use:
✔ A vacuum system to remove loose debris.
✔ A long-handled brush to reach up into the duct.
✔ A degreasing solution and hot water for deep cleaning.
If this seems unsafe or hard to reach, hire professionals. The team at Hygene Hood Cleaning uses industrial tools and safety equipment to clean ductwork and fans efficiently.
Step 6: Reassemble and Restart
Once everything is clean and dry:
✔ Reinstall the filters.
✔ Turn the power back on.
✔ Test the exhaust fan to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Signs Your Kitchen Canopy Needs Immediate Cleaning
Even with regular schedules, sometimes your system may need earlier attention. Watch for:
✔ Strong grease odours
✔ Visible grease drips or stains
✔ Reduced suction or airflow
✔ Unusual fan noises
✔ Smoke is not clearing during cooking
If you notice any of these, it’s time to call Hygene Hood Cleaning at +61-452-638-894 for an urgent inspection.
Why Hire Professionals Like Hygene Hood Cleaning?
Cleaning your kitchen canopy in-house is possible, but it comes with limitations. For deep, safe, and fully compliant cleaning, it’s best to trust the experts.
Benefits of Professional Canopy Cleaning:
✅ Meets all AS 1851 safety standards
✅ Fire risk is significantly reduced
✅ Improved airflow and energy efficiency
✅ Insurance and inspection-ready reports
✅ No disruption to your kitchen’s workflow
Hygene Hood Cleaning is Australia’s trusted name in commercial kitchen exhaust and Canopy Cleaning. With trained technicians, eco-friendly products, and top-tier service, your kitchen is in safe hands.
FAQs About Kitchen Canopy Cleaning
1. How long does professional canopy cleaning take?
Depending on kitchen size and canopy condition, it usually takes 2–4 hours.
2. Will cleaning interrupt our service hours?
Not with Hygene Hood Cleaning—they offer after-hours and weekend cleaning to avoid business disruptions.
3. Is cleaning just about the canopy, or does it include the duct and fan?
A full service should include a canopy, filters, ductwork, and an exhaust fan. That’s exactly what you get with Hygene Hood Cleaning.
4. Can I clean the canopy with dish soap?
Dish soap can handle surface grease, but not built-up grime or hidden residue. Use commercial-grade degreasers or call the pros.
Final Thoughts
Your kitchen canopy is not just another surface—it’s the first defence against grease build-up, fire hazards, and poor air quality. Proper cleaning keeps your kitchen safe, compliant, and efficient.
Whether you’re running a small café or a large commercial kitchen, keeping your canopy in top shape is essential. For reliable, thorough, and professional kitchen canopy cleaning across Australia, contact Hygene Hood Cleaning at +61-452-638-894 today.
