How to Clean Bathroom Fans & Why It's Important
When was the last time you cleaned your bathroom fan?
If you’re like most, it’s probably been a while…or…never.
At Branch Basics, we’re committed to helping you create a healthier, cleaner home, and knowing how to clean a bathroom fan is (surprisingly) a part of that.
In this article, we’ll show you how to clean bathroom fans safely and effectively, because it matters much more than you might think.
How to Clean Bathroom Fans in 3 Steps
Cleaning bathroom fans is quick and simple – so simple, in fact, it only takes three easy steps to complete.
A few notes before you begin:
- Some bathroom fans include additional hardware, lights, fixtures, and motors. To safely clean, refer to the manufacturer’s manual for how-tos and suggested cleaning schedules.
- Wear proper eye protection and a mask. Since bathroom fans are located on the ceiling, you’ll be looking up. Protective gear helps protect you from falling dust and debris while cleaning.
For more bathroom cleaning tips, check out How to Clean Your Bathroom Naturally with Branch Basics.
Let’s get to it!
Turn Fan Off
For your safety, before you begin cleaning the bathroom fan, turn the wall switch to “off.” As an extra precaution, turn off the circuit at the breaker box.
Doing this will ensure you can clean the fan safely without the risk of electrical shock.
Now you’re ready to clean your bathroom fan.
Remove Fan Cover and Clean
Start by removing the fan cover. If the fan includes a light cover or fixture, remove them as well.
Depending upon the type of bathroom fan you have, the cleaning process will vary.
Here’s how to clean a bathroom fan cover without a light:
- Fill the bathroom sink or a bucket with warm water. Add a few drops of Branch Basics Concentrate, and agitate until the water is sudsy.
- Soak the fan cover for at least 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Rinse under warm water and let air dry.
If your bathroom fan cover has a light or fixture, disconnect the wire before proceeding to clean.
How to clean a bathroom fan cover with a light or fixture*:
- Vacuum off any loose dust and dirt.
- Spray a clean microfiber cloth with All-Purpose until damp.
- Wipe clean and let air dry.
*Note: If the fan cover includes a light or fixture, do not submerge it in water.
Vacuum The Fan Motor
Gently and thoroughly vacuum the fan motor using the brush attachment. Next, use a dry microfiber cloth to get in the nooks and crannies to remove all dust, dirt, and grime.
When you’re finished, replace the fan cover.
The Importance of Cleaning Bathroom Fans
Keeping your bathroom fan clean is important for several reasons:
- It prevents dust from building up on the fan’s cover, blades, and motor. Overtime, buildup of dust and grime can reduce the fan’s efficiency.
- A clean, functioning bathroom fan helps control moisture and humidity. This reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth.
- Regular cleanings extend the life of the fan, helping it to run smoothly and reducing wear.
At Branch Basics, we speak regularly about the importance of clean indoor air.
One way to improve indoor air quality is by removing dust, which can carry surprising chemicals and pollutants. That’s why keeping your bathroom fan clean and dust-free is so important.
Learn more in The Surprising Chemicals Riding on Common House Dust.
How Often Should You Clean Your Bathroom Fan
For best practice, plan to clean your bathroom fan at least once every six months. This prevents dust and grime from building up, reducing its efficiency.
With the right tools, products, and know-how, tackling bathroom cleans can be easy and safe. Check out our 11 Safe & Effective Natural Bathroom Cleaning Essentials for more.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Fan Clean Longer
Now that you know how to naturally and safely clean a bathroom fan, let’s look at a few tips for maintaining it for a longer lifespan.
Frequent Cleaning
Frequent cleanings remove dust and other debris that can accumulate on the fan’s cover and blades. This helps keep your bathroom fan in good working condition and improves indoor air quality.
Learn more in Why Household Dust Matters To Your Health.
Regularly Check Fan's Condition
Even if your bathroom fan is clean and working well, it’s best practice to check the fan’s vents to ensure it isn’t blocked by debris or other obstructions.
Also, regularly check for damage or signs of wear and tear. If the fan becomes noisy, this could indicate motor failure, or that something is loose and needs to be fixed.
Toss the Toxins with Branch Basics
Cleaning bathroom fans may be an afterthought but it's also an easy process only requiring a few steps.
All you need is about 10 to 15 minutes, a vacuum (preferably a HEPA vacuum), microfiber cloths, and human-safe, natural and effective cleaning products.
Speaking of human-safe, natural and effective cleaning products, have you checked out Branch Basics Premium Starter Kits yet?
Branch Basics Premium Starter Kits (available in refillable plastic or glass), comes with our all-in-one Concentrate, a full-size bag of Oxygen Boost, and five refillable bottles to make All-Purpose, Bathroom, Foaming Wash, Streak-Free, and Laundry.
For more natural and human-safe bathroom cleaning tips with Branch Basics, check out:
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Marilee Nelson
Marilee Nelson is an Environmental Toxins expert who has spent nearly 30 years advocating for the chemically-sensitive and chronically-ill. She is a Board Certified Nutritionist, Certified Bau-Biologist and Bau-Biology Inspector and specializes in Food As Medicine. She has helped thousands of families and individuals identify, heal and recover from toxic exposures and is on a mission to revolutionize the way American families view their health.
