How To Clean A Fume Hood: Type of Fume Hood

Most hood surfaces are stainless steel.

Use wire wool to scrub these clean with mild soap and water, ethyl alcohol or glass cleaner.

If you use acids (or emit acidic vapors) in a fume hood, then even stainless steel will rust or corrode.

A layer of wax can help to prevent this, but is also stripped by solvents and can make a steel surface slippery.

For wood or plastic bench tops, a thin veneer of silicone oil or wax keeps them shiny and easier to clean.

Organic solvent spills can strip the oil or wax off, so it’s a good idea to apply it after a significant spill.

Interested in learning more about the importance of cleaning frequency in maintaining a safe laboratory environment? Click the link below!