How to Clean a Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Bathroom exhaust fan that is undergoing cleaning service in Plano, TX

While you’re probably used to cleaning your bathroom on a regular basis, there may be one important area that you’ve been neglecting: your exhaust fan. This little fan tends to accumulate dust and dirt as it draws in the air and moisture from your bathroom, which can eventually affect its performance.

Keeping your exhaust fan in good working condition is important, as it can help eliminate odors and reduce the amount of moisture in the air that can otherwise lead to mold and mildew growth in your bathroom.  Fortunately, it’s not terribly hard to clean, and you’ll only have to do it about every six months.

Here’s how to clean a bathroom exhaust fan.

 

Step 1: Turn Off the Fan and/or Power

You don’t want this thing starting up while you’re cleaning, so make sure it’s turned off. There is usually something that you can unplug just behind the exhaust fan cover, but if you really want to be safe then it is best to turn off the power at the circuit breaker.

 

Step 2: Remove the Vent Cover

Pull down on the sides of the vent cover until there is a few inches of space. Then, locate the metal spring clips or prongs on two of the sides, squeeze them together, and remove them from their slots.

Most models use this clip or prong system, but some are just screwed into the ceiling. If that’s the case, simply remove the screws using a screwdriver to loosen the vent cover.

 

Step 3: Wash the Vent Cover

Wash it with dish soap, warm water, and a sponge in the sink. If your bathroom sink is too small, try bringing it to the bathtub or a utility sink. After you’re done, allow it to air dry on a towel.

 

Step 4: Clean the Exhaust Fan

If you’re certain that the power is off, then it’s time to clean the fan itself. Use your vacuum brush attachment to clean around the fan housing and motor components, and then the crevice attachment for any hard-to-reach areas.

Once you’ve gotten rid of all the dry dust, you may still notice some caked-on grime, especially if you haven’t cleaned your fan in a long time. If that’s the case, then you can wipe it off with a damp microfibre cloth.

For a really deep clean, though, you may want to remove the fan entirely. Look for any visible screws around the fan assembly, remove them, and then carefully take the motor out of the fan housing. Using your damp microfibre cloth, carefully clean the blades and motor parts.

Step 5: Reinstall the Fan and Vent Cover

After you have made sure that you’ve cleaned and dried everything thoroughly, you can reinstall the exhaust fan and cover. If you ended up removing the motor, then begin by screwing it back into place. Then, reconnect the power by either plugging it back into the outlet or turning it back on at the circuit breaker.

Now you just need to reinstall the cover by either screwing it back in or slipping the clips back into their slots. Push the cover back into place, and you’re done!

 

Life's too short to spend time cleaning your house.

Dallas Sunrise Maids takes the burden of cleaning off your shoulders so you can spend more time with those you love and pursue your passions guilt-free.

Mother and young daughter playing on couch that had cleaning service with Dallas Sunrise Maids in Plano, TX

More Articles

Family with kids entering a spotless home in Dallas after professional move-in cleaning by Dallas Sunrise Maids

What Is Included in a Move-In Cleaning and Why It Matters

Moving into a new home marks the beginning of an exciting chapter. Whether you’ve purchased a property or are transitioning into a rental, ensuring your new space is thoroughly cleaned before settling in is crucial. A comprehensive pre-move-in cleaning not only provides peace of mind but also sets the foundation

Read More »
Smiling male House cleaner in a white Dallas Sunrise Maids uniform cleaning a glass wall of a shower

Help! My House Cleaners Don’t Speak English

If your house cleaners dont speak English and you are struggling to communicate your cleaning preferences, you’re not alone! Whether it’s showing them exactly how you like something done or feeling frustrated that something wasn’t cleaned the way you envisioned, effective communication is key to getting the results you want.

Read More »