The forgotten cleaning job that could be the cause of mould

Well, you might want to pay attention.

The extractor fan in your bathroom is more important than many people realise, helping to remove moisture, odours and airborne particles from the air.

However, if it becomes clogged with dust, it can quickly lose efficiency and even lead to mould, mildew or, in extreme cases, a potential fire hazard.

James Chapman, Director at Bella Bathrooms, explained that regular cleaning is key to keeping it working safely.

He said: “Your bathroom extractor fan plays a crucial role in controlling moisture levels and improving air quality, but it’s often overlooked when it comes to cleaning.”

He added: “If dust builds up inside the fan, it can reduce airflow and put extra strain on the motor, which over time could lead to overheating.”

For this reason, experts recommend cleaning your extractor fan at least once every six months to keep it in good working order.

How to clean a bathroom extractor fan

Before getting started, it’s important to switch off the power to the fan. This can be done using the wall switch, or for extra safety, at the circuit breaker.

James said: “Always make sure the power is turned off before removing the cover, as this will prevent any risk of electric shock while cleaning.”

You will need:

• Warm water
• Washing-up liquid
• Microfibre cloth
• Vacuum with attachments
• Old toothbrush

And here are the steps to follow:

To begin, gently pull down on the fan cover and squeeze the clips or wires holding it in place to release it. If your fan has a light attached, you may need to disconnect the wiring before fully removing the cover.

Once removed, fill your bathroom sink with warm water and add a few drops of washing-up liquid. Place the cover into the water and allow it to soak for a few minutes.

After soaking, scrub the cover using a cloth or soft brush to remove any dirt and dust, then leave it on a towel to dry.

James said: “If your fan cover includes electrical components such as a light, avoid submerging it in water. Instead, use a vacuum and a damp cloth to clean it safely.”

Next, use a vacuum with a crevice attachment to remove dust from inside the fan. You can then switch to a brush attachment to carefully clean around the motor and internal components.

For more stubborn dust, an old toothbrush can be used to loosen debris gently, but be careful not to apply too much pressure.

Once the dust has been removed, wipe the interior with a slightly damp microfibre cloth to pick up any remaining residue.

For an even deeper clean, you may be able to remove the fan unit itself. In many cases, this is held in place by a couple of screws, while some models can simply be unplugged and lifted out.

James explained: “If your fan requires a deep clean, removing the motor from the housing allows you to properly clear out built-up dust that a surface clean might miss.”

After removing the unit, vacuum it using a brush attachment or take it outside and use compressed air to blow away dust. Finish by wiping it down with a damp microfibre cloth.

Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble the fan and restore power.

To keep your bathroom well-ventilated and prevent future build-up, make sure to run your extractor fan during and after showers, and clean it regularly to maintain performance.