How To Clean a Bathroom Ventilator Fan

Does your bathroom fan have a funny smell? Is it frequently getting blocked with mold?

A lot of us never raise an eyebrow at the state of our bathroom. If it’s not flooded with water or filled with dirty soap scum, we usually don’t think twice about how it should be maintained.

But this specific room attracts a lot of moisture and airflow. This allows bacteria and mold to grow over time. So, clean your bathroom ventilator fan at least once a month to keep it at its optimal state. Keep reading to find out how.

Gather the Essential Supplies Needed for Cleaning

Start with a vacuum fitted with a hose attachment. Prepare dust cloths, wet and dry rags, a foam brush, and a mild, non-abrasive cleanser.

Wear safety goggles to ensure none of the dust and debris that come out of the fan ends up in your eyes. Once you have all the supplies acquired, you are ready to begin the cleaning process.

Unscrew the Bathroom Ventilator Fan Cover

Make sure the power is off. Remove the fan’s fuse or cut its power at the breaker box to avoid the fan from running while you are working on it.

Once the power is off, use a screwdriver to loosen it. Then, remove the plastic screw holding the ventilator’s cover. Be sure to take note of the cover’s positioning for reassembly later on.

Remove the Dust and Debris

Begin by reaching up inside. Use a cloth and all-purpose cleaner to gently wipe the blades. Also, use a vacuum with an attachment hose to suck out any excess dust that is trapped in the small crevices. Wear a face mask as you work to avoid inhaling the dust.

When you are done, use a damp cloth to wipe down the blades again before replacing the fan cover. Repeat this procedure every few months. This will keep bathroom ventilator fans free of dust and debris.

Disinfect and Sanitize the Fan Blades

After rinsing all the dirt and suds, prepare a disinfecting mixture. Mix 1 cup of vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water. Wipe the fan blades down with the mixture using a cloth or paper towel.

For heavy-duty cleaning, use a mixture of 1 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of warm water. Be sure to use gloves and open up windows for adequate ventilation. Rinse again and let the fan blades air dry before using the fan again.

Re-attach the Ventilator Fan Cover

Clean the cover with soapy water and a sponge, or use a cleaner for hard-to-remove dirt and stains. If the cover is too grimy and stained, you may want to replace it.

Once the cover is clean and dry, go to the fan and make sure all the screws are tightened securely. Place the fan cover back on, lining up the screws with the holes.

Securely fasten the screws, which should be tight. Then, tighten further with a screwdriver if needed. Once the fan cover is secure, then you have properly followed this bathroom ventilator fan cleaning guide. Use these steps for bathroom exhaust fans too.

Enjoy a Cleaner Home Environment

Regularly maintain your bathroom ventilator fan to keep the air circulating. This will ensure that its life span is long.

Cleaning your fan is an easy and satisfying task that only requires a vacuum hose attachment!

Give it a try today and see the difference it makes in your bathroom.

If you would like to learn more, check out our page for more tips and info!